DIE-CAST MODEL — 🇿🇦 South African Airways — Douglas DC-4 — Herpa — 1:500 — WITH ORIGINAL BOX —

Characteristics

Description

This Herpa Wings 1:500 scale model represents a Douglas DC-4 in the classic livery of South African Airways. The die-cast features the airline's distinctive blue and orange color scheme with 'SOUTH AFRICAN AIRWAYS' prominently displayed along the fuselage. Registration ZS-AUB is clearly marked on the aircraft. The model showcases excellent attention to detail including accurate engine nacelles, landing gear, and the characteristic straight-wing configuration of the DC-4. This collectible comes in its original Herpa packaging and represents a significant era in South African aviation history.

The Douglas DC-4 was a four-engine propeller-driven airliner developed by Douglas Aircraft Company in the 1940s. It became one of the first long-range commercial airliners to see widespread use after World War II, capable of carrying up to 86 passengers. The DC-4 featured a pressurized cabin and had a maximum range of approximately 4,000 kilometers. With a wingspan of 35.8 meters (117 ft 6 in) and a length of 28.6 meters (93 ft 10 in), the DC-4 served airlines worldwide throughout the 1950s and 1960s. At 1:500 scale, this model measures approximately 5.7 cm in length with a wingspan of about 7.2 cm, making it a perfect desk display piece for aviation enthusiasts.

🇿🇦 About the Airline
South African Airways (SAA) was founded in 1934 and became one of Africa's leading carriers. During the DC-4 era in the 1950s, SAA operated these aircraft on regional African routes and some international services, helping to establish South Africa's presence in global aviation. The airline's blue and orange livery from this period remains iconic among aviation collectors and historians.