The ScaleWings SW-51 by TacAero is a 72 percent P-51 replica. [Credit: Glenn Watson]
Key Takeaways:
The ScaleWings SW-51 is a meticulously crafted 72 percent replica of the P-51 Mustang, providing the iconic look and sound of the WWII fighter.
It offers modern, forgiving flight characteristics—unlike the original P-51—with light, responsive controls and mild stall behavior, alongside advanced avionics and a Rotax engine, making it a capable sport and cross-country aircraft.
Acquisition involves a builder-assist program and mandatory intensive training at a U.S. center, emphasizing that despite its user-friendly traits, it remains a high-performance aircraft requiring respect and proficiency.
The shout in the headset was urgent, insistent: “Red Three, break right now! Bandits on your six.” Without thinking, the stick and rudder went hard right with back pressure loading some three Gs in a steep bank as the Mustang pivoted on its right wingtip. In seconds I’d completed a 180 and was scanning the sky for the bad guys.
Nothing.
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Rick Durden has written for Aviation Consumer since 1994 and specializes in aviation law. He is an active CFII and holds an ATP with type ratings in the Douglas DC-3 and Cessna Citation. He is the author of The Thinking Pilot’s Flight Manual or, How to Survive Flying Little Airplanes and Have a Ball Doing It, Volumes 1 & 2.
![The ScaleWings SW-51 by TacAero is a 72 percent P-51 replica. [Credit: Glenn Watson]](https://www.flyingmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/FLY0226_2.0-We-Fly.jpeg)
