Thanks for that Kugelfang - it is confusing to start with...
I have bought a couple of 144 in metal and I may do the same in 72 so I can try out a scenario or two with both scales and see what I prefer.
I take your point about storage - very true. I have found a good supply of 144 'planes, some metal, some plastic but many are resin kits which I know can take a while to put together so 72 may win here too.