31011 Aviation Adventures

[Flying Ace]

I received this set for Christmas. So far I have only built the main model, and really like it. I don't have a full review to share, but here are my thoughts/observations:

The build is fairly long due to the number of parts. Building the propeller mechanism and the fuselage with the sliding canopy are interesting. I was wondering how well the ratchet mechanism for the prop would work (it works really well!).

The plane is patterned on the general low-wing warbird style. It's still a fictional design and it has a slight "cartoon-scale" feel. I especially like the long sleek fuselage in front of the canopy and the wing profile. It looks very powerful and aerobatic.

I also have the 10226 Sopwith Camel, which pretty much sets the bar for all-out scale realism in a LEGO plane. 31011 is definitely not a scale model. But it is also a bit smaller and sturdier. Overall it says "pick me up and swoosh me" more than the Camel. I can let my six-year old play with it without having to put it back together when he is done.

The engine spins with the propeller, which is correct for a rotary engine - which as far as I know, no plane of this style ever had. But, it creates more visual interest in the model. I also like to think that it acts as a flywheel to help keep the prop spinning.

Speaking of wheels, the plane rolls wonderfully. The tail wheel swivels so the plane can be taxied as one would a real plane.

The size of the plane allows for details like the various vents, the steps, exhaust pipes, and marker lights. The pitch of the propeller blades can be adjusted (by HoG of course).

The color scheme is certainly bright and cheerful. It reminds me of a Blue Angels stunt plane.

The tail section is probably the weakest area. The horizontal stabilizer is a little small and the vertical stabilizer is big and white. A sticker (even thought it would be a STAMP) would liven up this area considerably. But I am fine with it the the way it is.

And of course, it fits two minifigs. Mine is currently being flown by a German pilot and has been commandeered by Indiana Jones.

[Gnac]

The main reason I got this set was the ratched-activated propeller. 4403 Air Blazers has a really ingenious method of spinning the rotor blades by squeezing the model where the tail connects. While this worked very well in 4403, I feel that 31011's propeller assembly needs some extra weight to keep it spinning in spite of friction, although I'm at a loss to think how that could be achieved without making the prop blades too big.

It's a nice enough model with lots of parts I didn't already have, and it is great to once again see the ideas from those large 2003-era Designer Sets make a return.