I've built model airports since I was a kid, initially for my 600 scale Schabaks and in later years for my 400 scale fleet. The largest has undoubtedly been the modern Chinese layout I named Xīn lóng (New Dragon) International. This diorama dates from mid-2015 but saw construction well into 2018. Since I moved back to the UK, from NZ, it has been moved around a few times but never really properly setup. Finally, I have gotten back to it and in 2024 it is being revitalised with an extension and overall upgrade. My model airports are usually fictional layouts, to make better use of available space, but based on proper and sensible design patterns. I have documented the construction of this layout at the site here over the years. Check out the older bog entries starting here, which chart construction methods and progress: My design style is more tactile than Photoshop and print and avoids many of the issues that brings (printing and sticking down etc). I also tend to prefer the better feel of painted surfaces and certainly the approach I use is one that is much easier to replicate for people with less money and IT skills. Construction began in 2015 with Terminal 1, to which Terminal 2 and a runway extensin were added from late 2016, after I moved to a house with a bigger garage. Of course the weather in the North of NZ is more amenable and since moving back to the UK it has been a challenge to find a suitable all weather space for the layout. I had moved it to the loft last year, but frankly it was a pain to get to it and the rafters were annoying. Plus it was no warmer than the garage in Winter, and too warm in the Summer. So, recently I have returned the layout to the garage and what I hope is a more weather proof setting. This new area has also allowed me to add a 4th board for an extra extension. With all the moving about the layout had gotten damaged and rather tired so it is definitely in need of some updates and improvements. First up though is having a firm base for the 4 boards that make it up. That was achieved with a wall mounted extension, which will be where T1 is re-sited. The new section of the field will be on the right and is targeted as an area for a new control tower, maintenance hangars, remote gates and a fire station. Hopefully this'll give the whole diorama more playability and allow for more diverse photos to be taken. As you can see there's plenty of work required on the new section but also I want to upgrade the existing parts with better landscaping and detailing, plus new GSE too. I was also able to repurpose a perspex board I had as an end section, which will hopefully protect the layout a little (the person access door is by that side of it) while not blocking out light. As you can see when these shots were taken last month I'd already acquired the control tower and one hangar (more to come on those in future posts). Stay tuned for more on the rebirth of Xin Long in the coming days.
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I'm Richard Stretton, an aviation enthusiast and major collector of 400 scale model aircraft. This blog discusses ongoing events in the world of 400 scale. This site is free. Please donate to keep it going.
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