The Consolidated PBY Catalina was one of the most widely used flying boats of World War II. Over three thousand were constructed and they served in almost every theatre of the war with many allied air services.

Development of the Consolidated PBY began in the early 1930s to give the US Navy a long range patrol bomber capable of flying over the vast expanses of the Pacific Ocean.

The prototype made its maiden flight on 21 March 1935 and deliveries began in October 1936.

Between 1936 and 1945 3,308 were produced, 620 in Canada.

They served in almost every theatre of World War II in a wide number of roles flown by a large number of services including the Royal Australian Air Force.

This model represents the third of five Catalinas operated by Qantas Empire Airways between Australia and Ceylon from 1943.

Minicraft 1/144 kit with miscellaneous decals.  Completed in January 2022.