'DAWN OF THE AUSTRALIAN JET AIRLINER - 1959' 

Qantas 707 - VH-EBA

91 x 130 cm  - Oil on canvas 

Commission

Detailed view

A BRIEF HISTORY of VH-EBA by RON CUSKELLY

As the nation celebrates the 75th anniversary of the Sydney Harbour Bridge opening, it is appropriate that this Australian icon should also feature in Nikyla's latest painting of an Australian Aviation icon.

The painting captures the arrival in Australia of VH-EBA, the
first Boeing 707-138 ordered by Qantas and the first jet aeroplane on
the Australian Register of Civil Aircraft. The release of this painting, the first of three commissioned by Qantas, coincides with VH-EBA's triumphant return to Australia for permanent display at the Qantas Founders Outback Museum in Longreach, Queensland.

Apart from it's significance to Australia, this aeroplane is an exhibit of world
significance as it was also the first American jet airliner sold to a
foreign customer. Thanks to the efforts of many dedicated volunteers who
recognised the aeroplane's heritage value to our nation, VH-EBA will now
be preserved for future generations to admire.

Limited Edition Giclee prints of this painting are now available