A colourful and substantial 1:144 scale diecast representation of Bristol Britannia 312 G-AOVH, operated by Monarch Airlines during the company's formative years. Released within Corgi's Aviation Archive Classic Propliners range, model 48603 recreates the famous British turboprop in Monarch's distinctive yellow, white and blue colour scheme.
Monarch Airlines commenced operations during 1968, initially concentrating on inclusive-tour and charter services from airports including London Luton. The Bristol Britannia provided the young airline with a spacious long-range aircraft suitable for carrying holiday passengers to destinations across Europe and beyond.
G-AOVH entered Monarch service during May 1968. The model depicts the aircraft with a white upper fuselage, polished natural-metal lower surfaces, blue and yellow cheatlines and a bright yellow tail carrying the Monarch emblem.
Designed to meet a BOAC requirement for a medium and long-range passenger aircraft, the Bristol Britannia first flew in August 1952. Its four Bristol Proteus turboprop engines gave the aircraft a distinctive quiet cruising character, leading to the enduring nickname “The Whispering Giant”.
The extended-fuselage Britannia 312 was developed for longer international routes and increased passenger capacity. Although delays restricted the aircraft's early commercial impact, the Britannia later enjoyed a productive second career with independent charter airlines after jet aircraft began replacing it on prestigious scheduled services.
This Corgi release features extensive diecast construction, permanently printed airline markings, clear cockpit glazing and finely reproduced engine nacelles. Further features include four rotating propellers, removable landing gear and the original Corgi Aviation Archive presentation display stand.
Fact Sheet
Brand: Corgi
Series: Aviation Archive / Classic Propliners
Model code: 48603
Aircraft: Bristol 175 Britannia 312
Registration: G-AOVH
Airline: Monarch Airlines
Role: Passenger charter airliner
Base: London Luton Airport, England
Date/Period: Late 1960s
Operator / Country: Monarch Airlines / United Kingdom
Scale: 1:144
Edition: Limited-edition collector release
Material: Heavyweight diecast metal with quality sub-components
Special Features: Authentic Monarch Airlines G-AOVH markings, distinctive yellow, white and blue finish, polished natural-metal wings and lower surfaces, clear cockpit glazing, pad-printed cabin windows, four rotating propellers, removable landing gear and original presentation display stand
Model Dimensions
Length: 10.25" or 26 cm
Width (Wingspan): 11.75" or 29.8 cm