TOPIC: Fairy FD2 model history

Daniel Rackstraw has recently emailed us about a possible FD 2 model. Roger remembered he had written about this and I (Howard) thought it a good idea to advertise it:



Above: now available as a download!
Below is the appendix - note the cardboard model (available from Roger) and the Steve Bage plan - very tasty. Also note the fuselage is perfect for moulding



The booklet, by Roger Simmonds and Andy Blackwell and, is about models of the FD 2 for free flight powered by ducted fan, Jetex and Rapier. It was produced for the Fleet Air Arm Museum ‘Festival of Speed’ in Yeovilton that year, which celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Fairey FD2 1132 mph record. It sold quite well - there are no 'hard copies left, but the complete booklet can be downloaded here:

I never did get this plan finished. the FD2 would make a fantastic L2 powered model that with the big delta wing should fly very well. i made the design hard for myself by attempting to incorporate an original Jetex augmentor tube into the design, which i know from previous models do work well but of course add complexity and weight. A simple trough mounted motor would be easier.

I never got round to doing the formers or all the ribs but the fuselage is a simple oval shape so quite possible to scratch build. Plan attached

A truly beautiful aircraft, it would be a nice idea to see a few of these built for the 2021 season. Any interest guys?

Daniel will be pleased to hear I have just started an FD-2 with a moulded fuselage (though probably an external motor (TSP L-2) in a trough. Look out for the new topic in coming to the building thread soon!