The Fairey Flycatcher
By Chris Banyai-Riepl
Author: Matthew Willis
Publisher: Mushroom Model Publications
ISBN: 978-83-63678-92-0
Binding: Softcover
Pages: 96
The 1920s saw rapid evolution of aviation as nations sought to re-arm themselves after the First World War. While some designs came and went, others managed to survive a while. The Fairey Flycatcher was one of the latter designs, operating with the Royal Navy well into the 1930s. The Flycatcher was not an attractive aircraft, nor was it a hot performer, but it was solid and popular as a public demonstrator. The latest in the Mushroom Model Publications' Orange Series covers this classic British biplane in what is likely the most thorough coverage in print.
The book begins with the origins and development of the Flycatcher, including the wheeled and float variants. Following that is the Flycatcher in service, which fills up a significant portion of the text. With the Flycatcher serving until 1932, one would think that at least one would have survived, but sadly there are no original Flycatchers. There is a replica, though, and this book provides a brief history on that airplane.
The remainder of the book provides a construction description, Flycatcher colors, and details. These sections will be invaluable to the scale modeler, particularly the color profiles as these highlight just how colorful the Flycatcher was in service. Further adding to these are the photos spread throughout the book, making this both a great visual reference in addition to the written word.
This is a very welcome addition to the Orange Series and a nice history on the Fairey Flycatcher that will be a good reference for the large Silver Wings 1/32 Flycatcher. Hopefully with this newfound interest we'll see a new-tool Flycatcher in 1/72. My thanks to MMP for the review copy.