De Havilland DH-114 Heron National Airways Corporation NAC Model

General Product Description

Our MyMahoganyModel De Havilland DH-114 Heron National Airways Corporation NAC Model exhibits unique, unrivaled quality and detailed design to come as close as possible to the accuracy of the actual plane. It comes as standard with a robust, durable base or stand which is available in a variety of different finishes designed to match your own personal requirements including solid wood, wood with polished metal supports or adjustable wood wall mount and will be ready within about 9-10 weeks from placement of order.

The De Havilland DH-114 Heron National Airways Corporation NAC Model is made of the finest kiln dried renewable mahogany wood (commonly known as Lauan or Meranti) which has undergone many stages of carving and meticulous and careful sanding giving the beautiful finished museum quality masterpiece. Many collectors and model connoisseurs demonstrate their preference for genuine handmade and hand painted mahogany wood models rather than plastic or die cast (diecast) alternatives due to the overall look and totally different feel of the item - we trust you will find the same. We can, however, if required produce the same model in Solid Cast Resin so just click and contact us us for further information. Our craftsmen and gifted artisans ensure that our finely handcrafted model airplanes match the precise blueprint details of the original aircraft. The paint scheme, markings and parts are closely matched, reflecting the original aircraft. This stylish top-quality desktop replica model will surely enthrall anyone who receives this as a gift and for sure one of the most appropriate and desirably collectable gifts for any aviation enthusiast and avid aircraft collector whilst also displaying a perfect resemblance to the actual aircraft.

If you require we can also make the De Havilland DH-114 Heron National Airways Corporation NAC Model in any other airline, private livery or colour scheme you require and if necessary in a different size or scale. Just click here to contact us with a description or photographs of what you require, and we will let you have a quotation for the necessary customization by return email. We can also make bespoke scale replicas of any other private / civil commercial airliner or airliners, helicopter, glider, gliders with engines, military jet, warplane jets, propeller warplanes, biplane, triplane, tail fin, spacecraft, rocket or NASA model you require in any airline, military or civilian livery or colors. We also produce model airships, blimp, dirigible, blimps, boat and ship collectibles. Wall plaque or seal for military, government or private customers. Again, by clicking here to contact us just let us know exactly what you need.

The De Havilland DH-114 Heron: A Glimpse into NAC’s Legacy

The De Havilland DH-114 Heron holds a special place in the history of aviation, particularly in the operations of New Zealand’s National Airways Corporation (NAC). A versatile and reliable aircraft, the DH-114 Heron was used extensively by NAC in the mid-20th century to serve the challenging and varied landscapes of New Zealand. This article explores the Heron’s role in the development of the country’s domestic air travel network and its lasting legacy within NAC.

The De Havilland DH-114 Heron: An Overview

The DH-114 Heron, designed and built by De Havilland Aircraft Company in the 1950s, was a small, twin-engine, four-engined propeller aircraft. Known for its durability and ability to operate on short, often rugged runways, the Heron became a workhorse for various airlines, including NAC. It was designed primarily for short regional flights, making it ideal for the challenging terrain and remote destinations that characterized New Zealand’s domestic air travel needs.

NAC operated several models of the DH-114 Heron, deploying them on both domestic and international routes. The aircraft’s design allowed it to seat around 20-30 passengers, offering a balance of comfort and practicality for short-haul flights. The Heron was also praised for its reliability, which made it an attractive option for operators in the region.

NAC and the Heron: A Partnership Forged in the Skies

The partnership between NAC and the DH-114 Heron was formed in the early 1950s when NAC sought to modernize its fleet to meet the increasing demand for domestic air travel. The Heron was seen as a perfect fit for the airline’s regional routes, which serviced not only major cities like Auckland and Wellington but also remote airstrips in rural areas. Its short-field capabilities allowed NAC to reach destinations that larger aircraft could not, thus expanding the airline’s network across the North and South Islands.

NAC’s fleet of DH-114 Herons were primarily used for feeder services, connecting passengers from smaller airports to larger hubs. These aircraft played a key role in the growth of New Zealand’s air travel industry by ensuring that even the most isolated communities could be linked to the national network.

The Legacy of the DH-114 Heron:

The DH-114 Heron’s contribution to NAC’s operations cannot be overstated. It helped revolutionize domestic travel, providing essential connectivity for both passengers and cargo. The aircraft became a symbol of reliability and adaptability, characteristics that have been associated with NAC ever since.

Over the years, the DH-114 Heron was gradually phased out, replaced by more modern aircraft as technology advanced. However, its impact on New Zealand’s aviation history endures. Many former Heron pilots and crew members fondly remember the aircraft as a vital part of the airline’s history, and today, a few examples of the DH-114 Heron are preserved in museums, serving as a reminder of the aircraft’s legacy.

Conclusion:

The De Havilland DH-114 Heron holds a significant place in the history of National Airways Corporation. As one of the key players in the airline’s early days, it helped to shape the course of domestic air travel in New Zealand. Though it has since been retired, the Heron remains an iconic symbol of the nation’s aviation progress and its pioneering spirit in connecting the country’s cities, towns, and remote regions.

As aviation continues to evolve, the legacy of the DH-114 Heron and its service to NAC will always be remembered as a crucial chapter in the history of New Zealand’s skies.