In 1980, Airfix had quite a considerable line of toys as well as model kits, such as Flight Deck, an unusual and popular toy with a Phantom Jet that could land on a small aircraft carrier strip. To compliment this and similar toys, they brought out a Hovercraft and shortly after, the Super Hovercraft.
Using a pair if ducted fans, the model drives air beneath and behind the craft, trapping it in a cushion surrounded by a polythene skirt. The Super version came with a transport bay and Airfix included two nice models from the Dr X Railway playset, a breakdown Truck and an NCL Container wagon. I've managed to find the NCL truck on a low loader, but yet to get the whole playset! I haven't tested the hovercraft, which is supposed to work on water too... The handset us about the size of a food mixer and takes a whopping 5 D cell batteries.
Hi again Woodsy! This hovercraft is great, I have one boxed made in Spain by Pilen and it is clearly a copy of the Airfix one. Try a search with "super hovercraft pilen", and you'll find it. Even the textart and the box are very similar.
ReplyDeleteGreat to know this, I'll remember it when I write about the hovercraft.
This is gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteI have in my garage I'm going to resurrect! Had it since the very early 80s I would guess.
ReplyDeleteSounds great. Hope finding it again is a joy.
DeleteI’ve got one of these for sale
DeletePuedes mandar video del funcionamiento?. Gracias
ReplyDeleteI have one of these for sale
ReplyDelete