De Havilland Dragon Rapide Kuwait Oil Company Limited

General Product Description

Our PlaneArts De Havilland Dragon Rapide Kuwait Oil Company Limited model exhibits unique, unrivaled quality and detailed design to come as close as possible to the accuracy of the actual plane. It comes as standard with a robust, durable base or stand which is available in a variety of different finishes designed to match your own personal requirements including solid wood, wood with polished metal supports or adjustable wood wall mount and will be ready within about 9-10 weeks from placement of order.

The De Havilland Dragon Rapide Kuwait Oil Company Limited model is made of the finest kiln dried renewable mahogany wood (commonly known as Lauan or Meranti) which has undergone many stages of carving and meticulous and careful sanding giving the beautiful finished museum quality masterpiece. Many collectors and model connoisseurs demonstrate their preference for genuine handmade and hand painted mahogany wood models rather than plastic or die cast (diecast) alternatives due to the overall look and totally different feel of the item - we trust you will find the same. We can, however, if required produce the same model in Solid Cast Resin so just click and contact us us for further information. Our craftsmen and gifted artisans ensure that our finely handcrafted model airplanes match the precise blueprint details of the original aircraft. The paint scheme, markings and parts are closely matched, reflecting the original aircraft. This stylish top-quality desktop replica model will surely enthrall anyone who receives this as a gift and for sure one of the most appropriate and desirably collectable gifts for any aviation enthusiast and avid aircraft collector whilst also displaying a perfect resemblance to the actual aircraft.

If you require we can also make the De Havilland Dragon Rapide Kuwait Oil Company Limited model in any other airline, private livery or colour scheme you require and if necessary in a different size or scale. Just click here to contact us with a description or photographs of what you require, and we will let you have a quotation for the necessary customization by return email. We can also make bespoke scale replicas of any other private / civil commercial airliner or airliners, helicopter, glider, gliders with engines, military jet, warplane jets, propeller warplanes, biplane, triplane, tail fin, spacecraft, rocket or NASA model you require in any airline, military or civilian livery or colors. We also produce model airships, blimp, dirigible, blimps, boat and ship collectibles. Wall plaque or seal for military, government or private customers. Again, by clicking here to contact us just let us know exactly what you need.

The De Havilland Dragon Rapide: Kuwait Oil Company’s Aerial Workhorse

The De Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide, an aircraft that played a pivotal role in aviation history, found a unique niche within the operations of the Kuwait Oil Company Limited (KOC). This biplane, known for its reliability and versatility, served as a vital link in the early days of oil exploration and development in Kuwait, showcasing the intersection of aviation and the oil industry in a region that would become pivotal to the global energy market.

A Testament to Engineering Excellence

Designed in the 1930s by the British aircraft manufacturer De Havilland, the Dragon Rapide was a development of the earlier Dragon biplane and was intended for use as a short-haul airliner. Its design was a testament to the engineering excellence of the era, featuring a wooden structure with fabric covering, which was both light and durable. It was powered by two de Havilland Gipsy Six engines, which provided a perfect balance of power and efficiency, allowing it to carry up to eight passengers or a comparable amount of cargo over distances that were impressive for the time.

The Kuwait Oil Company Fleet:

The Kuwait Oil Company, understanding the potential of the Dragon Rapide, utilized the aircraft not just for transporting personnel and equipment to remote oil fields, but also for aerial surveys, mapping, and even as an air ambulance. The versatility of the Dragon Rapide made it an invaluable asset in the harsh and challenging environment of the Kuwaiti desert.

Important Features:

• Durability and Reliability: The Dragon Rapide’s construction allowed it to withstand the demanding conditions of desert operations, from sandstorms to extreme temperatures.
• Versatility: Easily configurable for passenger transport, cargo, or specialized missions such as aerial surveys, the Dragon Rapide could be adapted quickly to meet the diverse needs of the oil company.
• Economic Operation: Its fuel efficiency and the reliability of its Gipsy Six engines meant that the Dragon Rapide was an economically viable option for the KOC, reducing the logistical costs associated with oil exploration and extraction.
• Navigational Aids: For its time, the Dragon Rapide was equipped with relatively advanced navigational aids, which were crucial for navigating over the featureless desert landscape.

A Symbol of Progress:

The De Havilland Dragon Rapide operated by the Kuwait Oil Company Limited became more than just a piece of aviation technology; it was a symbol of the modernization and development of the Kuwaiti oil industry. By connecting remote oil fields with Kuwait City and beyond, it played a crucial role in the development of the country’s oil infrastructure, which would have far-reaching impacts on both the regional and global economy.

In retrospect, the Dragon Rapide’s service with the Kuwait Oil Company highlights a period of rapid transformation and growth. It stands as a testament to how aviation technology can be leveraged to overcome the geographical and environmental challenges associated with natural resource exploration and development. The legacy of the Dragon Rapide in Kuwait is a reminder of the ingenuity and resilience of those early pioneers of the oil industry, who saw the potential of combining the capabilities of aviation with the burgeoning needs of the oil sector.