This has to be one of the most flamboyant markings ever put on an aircraft. During the 1930s, record breaking was pretty much a norm as aviation was still growing and not the common mode of transportation it is today. The Century of Progress was a Vega 5B that was prepped for an around the world flight. It never managed to perform that feat, crashing during several attempts. The plane was owned by 'Jimmie' Mattern and his first attempt was with Bennett Griffin in mid 1932. The second attempt was solo in mid 1933.

Red Pegasus Decals has done a superb two sheet set for this aircraft. The plane was basically a mid/light blue fuselage and tail with white wings and stabilizer. The markings were all in red and quite intensive. One should try to copy the blue in the decals to paint on the fuselage. If you are looking for a kit, then your options are the ESCI/AMT version that was kitted as Wiley Post's aircraft. It is not currently in production, but is not all that difficult to find. This kit is a Vega 5C and to do the 5B, the tail surfaces need to be reduced, a rather simple procedure.

This sheet is ALPS printed so will have a solid clear cover and requires each marking to be cut out individually. A clear coat after application is highly recommended as ALPS markings can be more easily scratched that standard types.

It is great to see colorful markings for civil kits being produced and this is one of the best. You can get yours from http://redpegasusdecals.com .

August 2013

Thanks to Red Pegasus Decals for the review sheet.

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