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Model Airplane KitsHelping You Find the Best
mybest
Model Airplane KitsHelping You Find the Best
  • 10 Best Model Airplane Kits of 2024 (Revell, Airfix, and More) 1
  • 10 Best Model Airplane Kits of 2024 (Revell, Airfix, and More) 2
  • 10 Best Model Airplane Kits of 2024 (Revell, Airfix, and More) 3
  • 10 Best Model Airplane Kits of 2024 (Revell, Airfix, and More) 4
  • 10 Best Model Airplane Kits of 2024 (Revell, Airfix, and More) 5

10 Best Model Airplane Kits of 2024 (Revell, Airfix, and More)

Are you looking for a new hobby where you can admire your own work? Or are you interested in learning about history in a hands-on sort of way? Whether you go with display-intended options made of plastic or flyable versions made of balsa wood, model airplanes are a great way to build both simple and intricate recreations of real machines. They're also great for learning about specific historical periods, especially the World War II era.


That's why we've scoured the internet for the best options, as well as the best points to look for while shopping. Check out our top 10 list and our buying guide to see what we included.

Last updated 12/14/2024

Quick List - Top Model Airplane Kits

1

Revell

A-10 Warthog85-5521
A-10 Warthog

Unrivaled Close Air Support: Revell's A-10 Warthog

2

Premium Hobbies

F-14A Tomcat "VF-142 Ghostriders"
F-14A Tomcat "VF-142 Ghostriders"

Build the Skies: Craft Your Own Swing-Wing Airplane Model

3

Premium Hobbies

P-51D Blue Nose
P-51D Blue Nose

Take Flight with the Blue Nose

4

Airfix

AirfixSupermarine Spitfire Mk.IaA01071B
Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Ia

Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Ia: An Iconic WWII Fighter

5

Revell

North American P-51B Mustang Fighter Aircraft 1/32 Scale Model
North American P-51B Mustang Fighter Aircraft 1/32 Scale Model

Recreate History with a North American Mustang Fighter

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Table of Contents

How to Choose a Model Airplane Kit - Buying Guide

When choosing the right model airplane kit, there are a few different points to keep in mind. You should consider the model type you're looking for and what you want out of the building process.

1

Decide On an Airplane Model Type

When shopping for the perfect model airplane kit, you must consider the level of detail and difficulty you want. It's also important to decide if you want an option that is flyable or historically specific.

Consider Simple Versions and Scale Replicas

Consider Simple Versions and Scale Replicas

If you’re new to model airplane kits, or if you’re planning on helping a child build one, you should go with a simple option. These models typically have fewer parts and can be put together quickly. They are often pre-painted and pre-cut, too. They may even come with decal stickers, so you have less work to do.


One of the more popular options is a scale replica model kit. As the name implies, these models are actual replicas. These are very complex and involved, consisting of 100 or more pieces. They’re also very detailed and lifelike, right down to the paint that you apply yourself.


You can usually move the propellers, wings, undercarriages, cockpits, and wheels on these planes. The most popular scales are 1:72, 1:48, and 1:32. But scale isn’t the same as size; it’s a ratio that simply refers to how many inches on a real plane equal one inch on the model.

Think About Historical and Flyable Models

Think About Historical and Flyable Models

You can also go with historical planes. These are also very specific models. Most enthusiasts invest in different kits that correspond to a specific era. For example, many people enjoy recreating planes used by different countries in World War II.


If you like this type of kit and are looking to create a group of planes, it’s usually best to purchase ones from the same company. Manufacturing differences can be glaring when they’re side-by-side.


If you’re looking to actually use your plane, go with a flyable option. Model planes are usually made of plastic, but these are made especially light. They often use lightweight materials, such as pre-cut balsa wood, and have plastic features. They either come with electric components or are compatible with them. 

2

Consider What the Building Process Will Entail

Consider What the Building Process Will Entail

Depending on what kind of plane you’re building, the overall level of complexity will vary. Certain kinds, especially scale replicas, will take longer.


You will also have to consider what supplies you might need. Many kits come with tools such as brushes, glue, and paint. But, even for those that don’t include supplies, kits will usually tell you what specific paint colors to buy.


Be sure to check reviews to see what customers thought was lacking or if the manufacturer isn't clear about what's included in the kit. Also, be sure to note the age recommendation for each kit. Putting model airplanes together can be dangerous for small children due to choking hazards. The more intricate the model, the older a child should be.

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10 Best Model Airplane Kits

We've thoroughly researched model airplanes and compiled a top 10 list of our favorites based on customer reviews! Check them out below.
Popularity
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Key features
Details
Item Weight
Historically Accurate
Scale
Number of Parts
Length
Wingspan
1

Revell

A-10 Warthog85-5521

Revell  A-10 Warthog 1

Unrivaled Close Air Support: Revell's A-10 Warthog

0.16 oz.

1:48

165

13 in

14.6 in

2

Premium Hobbies

F-14A Tomcat "VF-142 Ghostriders"

Premium Hobbies F-14A Tomcat "VF-142 Ghostriders" 1

Build the Skies: Craft Your Own Swing-Wing Airplane Model

12.6 oz.

1:72

unknown

unknown

unknown

3

Premium Hobbies

P-51D Blue Nose

Premium Hobbies P-51D Blue Nose 1

Take Flight with the Blue Nose

4.6 oz.

1:72

unknown

unknown

6 in

4

Airfix

AirfixSupermarine Spitfire Mk.IaA01071B

Airfix  Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Ia 1

Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Ia: An Iconic WWII Fighter

2.39 oz.

1:72

36

5 in

6.1 in

5

Revell

North American P-51B Mustang Fighter Aircraft 1/32 Scale Model

Revell North American P-51B Mustang Fighter Aircraft 1/32 Scale Model 1

Recreate History with a North American Mustang Fighter

32 oz.

1:32

64

12 in

13.625 in

6

Revell

Spitfire MKII

Revell Spitfire MKII 1

Option With a Detailed Cockpit and Closeable Canopy

0.2 oz.

1:48

34

1 in

1 in

7

Revell

Corsair F4U-485-5248

Revell Corsair F4U-4 1

Corsair F4U-4: A Classic Naval Fighter

0.23 oz.

1:48

75

8 in

10.5 in

8

Revell

P-40B Tiger Shark

Revell P-40B Tiger Shark 1

Flying Tiger Model Kit

0.2 oz.

1:48

60

8 in

9.25 in

9

Ferthor Fun

STEM Building Toys Model Airplane Kits

Ferthor Fun STEM Building Toys Model Airplane Kits 1

Perfect for Young Engineers

25.44 oz.

1:32

331

13 in

15.7 in

10

Revell

Stuka Ju 87G-1 Tank Buster

Revell Stuka Ju 87G-1 Tank Buster 1

German Model Plane Kit for Plane Enthusiasts

7.4 oz.

1:48

54

7.48 in

12.2 in

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Revell
A-10 Warthog85-5521

A-10 Warthog 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$34.99
High
Reference price
$34.99
High
Scale1:48
Number of Parts165
Historically Accurate

Unrivaled Close Air Support: Revell's A-10 Warthog

Experience the legendary A-10 Warthog in intricate detail with this 1:48 scale model kit, featuring 165 parts and authentic markings.

Revell's A-10 Warthog model kit offers enthusiasts and hobbyists aged 12 and above a meticulous recreation of the iconic aircraft renowned for its close air support capabilities. Designed around the fearsome GAU-8 Gatling gun, capable of penetrating heavy armor, the A-10 earned its nickname "Warthog" due to its robust appearance and battlefield effectiveness. This model includes a detailed interior with a seated pilot, boarding ladder, ECM pod, cluster bombs, Maverick missiles, and more, ensuring a true-to-life representation. Decals are provided for notable squadron designs, including "LET'S ROLL" from the 355th Wing/12AF West Coast A-10 Demo Team. With its history of successful missions in conflicts like Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom, the A-10 Warthog remains a symbol of durability and precision in modern aerial warfare.
Item Weight0.16 oz.
Length13 in
Wingspan14.6 in
Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

Premium Hobbies
F-14A Tomcat "VF-142 Ghostriders"

Lowest price
$29.99
High Mid
Scale1:72
Number of Partsunknown
Historically Accurate

Build the Skies: Craft Your Own Swing-Wing Airplane Model

The PH Premium Hobbies Airplane Model Kit offers an exciting and detailed crafting experience for aviation enthusiasts. This kit includes highly detailed plastic parts, featuring "Swing-Wing" wings that add a dynamic, realistic touch to your model. With quality decals included, this kit allows you to bring your aircraft to life with a professional finish.


To complete the build, simply add your own paint and glue, allowing for full customization. Perfect for all seasons, this kit offers hours of enjoyment and a rewarding result, making it an excellent choice for hobbyists looking to elevate their model collection.

Item Weight12.6 oz.
Lengthunknown
Wingspanunknown
No.3

Premium Hobbies
P-51D Blue Nose

Lowest price
$15.99
Low Mid
Scale1:72
Number of Partsunknown
Historically Accurate

Take Flight with the Blue Nose

The PH Premium Hobbies 1:72 Scale Airplane Model Kit is perfect for young aviation enthusiasts looking to explore the world of modeling. With a 6-inch wingspan, this kit includes highly detailed plastic parts and three sets of decals for a realistic finish.


Painting and gluing are required to complete the model, offering an engaging hands-on experience. This fun and educational kit provides an excellent opportunity for kids to develop fine motor skills while creating their own detailed airplane model. Ideal for hobbyists of all skill levels, this kit offers endless possibilities for customization and creativity.

Item Weight4.6 oz.
Lengthunknown
Wingspan6 in
No.4

Airfix
AirfixSupermarine Spitfire Mk.IaA01071B

Lowest price
$16.76
Low Mid
Scale1:72
Number of Parts36
Historically Accurate

Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Ia: An Iconic WWII Fighter

Experience the iconic WWII fighter with the Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Ia, a detailed 1:72 scale model kit featuring historical accuracy and straightforward assembly.

Manufactured by Airfix, this model kit offers enthusiasts a beginner-friendly build with 36 parts requiring glue and paints for completion. Ideal for adult hobbyists, the kit includes Humbrol paints specifically recommended for accurate detailing, replicating the Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Ia N3290 from the 92 Squadron in 1940. This military aircraft model showcases the Spitfire's renowned design, complete with a wingspan of 155mm and options for historical scheme customization. Perfect for both aviation history buffs and modeling enthusiasts, this kit provides an opportunity to recreate a piece of WWII aviation history with precision and authenticity.

Item Weight2.39 oz.
Length5 in
Wingspan6.1 in
No.5

Revell
North American P-51B Mustang Fighter Aircraft 1/32 Scale Model

Lowest price
$29.99
High Mid
Scale1:32
Number of Parts64
Historically Accurate

Recreate History with a North American Mustang Fighter

The Revell 1/32 scale North American P-51B Mustang Fighter Model Kit is a detailed tribute to one of the most iconic World War II aircraft. With 64 intricate parts, this kit includes a seated pilot figure, a multi-piece canopy, and a finely detailed V-12 engine. The colorful decals offer two versions for customization, while the vintage-style packaging adds a nostalgic touch.


Once assembled, the model measures approximately 12 inches long, 13.625 inches wide, and 5 inches high. Paint and cement are required to complete the model, offering hobbyists the opportunity to bring this historic fighter to life. The P-51B Mustang played a crucial role in Allied victories, with its fighter sweeps and bomber escort missions helping to dominate the skies over Europe. This officially licensed kit is a must-have for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Item Weight32 oz.
Length12 in
Wingspan13.625 in
No.6

Revell
Spitfire MKII

Lowest price
$16.95
Low Mid
Scale1:48
Number of Parts34
Historically Accurate

Option With a Detailed Cockpit and Closeable Canopy

This British World War II plane kit has 34 pieces and two sets of decals. Its cockpit is incredibly detailed, and its canopy can open and close. This kit also comes with illustrated instructions for easy assembly.


Some people said their kit's parts didn't fit together well, and a few found the landing gear weak. But, generally, buyers said this plane has a notable amount of detail. Many also said the instructions are thorough and easy to follow. Reviewers noted that kids enjoyed assembling it as well.

Item Weight0.2 oz.
Length1 in
Wingspan1 in
No.7

Revell
Corsair F4U-485-5248

Lowest price
$26.29
Scale1:48
Number of Parts75
Historically Accurate

Corsair F4U-4: A Classic Naval Fighter

The Corsair F4U-4, the final U.S.-made propeller-driven fighter, features iconic folding wings and optional armament for a dynamic modeling experience.

Manufactured by Revell, the Corsair F4U-4 model kit offers enthusiasts an engaging challenge with its 1:48 scale and 75 parts. Designed for ages 12 and up, this kit includes molded parts in light gray and clear, along with decals depicting historical squadrons like VMF-214 "Black Sheep" and VMA-332. The Corsair's distinctive inverted gull wing design, originally intended for carrier operations, became renowned among Marine Corps pilots during World War II and later saw combat in the Korean War. This detailed model replicates the Corsair's versatility and historical significance, making it an ideal choice for hobbyists and collectors alike seeking to recreate a piece of aviation history in precise detail.

Item Weight0.23 oz.
Length8 in
Wingspan10.5 in
No.8

Revell
P-40B Tiger Shark

Lowest price
$29.84
High Mid
Scale1:48
Number of Parts60
Historically Accurate

Flying Tiger Model Kit

The Revell 1/48 scale P-40 Warhawk Flying Tigers Plastic Model Kit is a finely detailed tribute to one of World War II's most iconic fighter planes. With 60 parts, this skill level 4 kit features olive drab and clear components, raised rivets, and panel lines for realistic detail. It includes a detailed cockpit interior, a rotating propeller, and movable main wheels. You can pose the canopy open or closed for a personalized touch.


The model measures 8 inches in length with a 9-1/4 inch wingspan and features authentic Flying Tigers markings, including national insignia, aircraft identification letters, and artwork. A centerline drop tank is included, enhancing the model's accuracy. Paint and glue are required to complete the kit, offering an immersive build experience for hobbyists aged 12 and up. Perfect for enthusiasts of aviation history and military aircraft.

Item Weight0.2 oz.
Length8 in
Wingspan9.25 in
No.9

Ferthor Fun
STEM Building Toys Model Airplane Kits

Lowest price
$24.99
Mid
Scale1:32
Number of Parts331
Historically Accurate

Perfect for Young Engineers

This 1:32 scale airplane model is a standout in size and construction, measuring over 13 inches long, 15.7 inches wide, and 4.7 inches high once fully assembled. With 331 metal parts, including nuts, bolts, a small screwdriver, and a wrench, it offers a durable and sturdy build that surpasses typical plastic models. The anti-rust metal ensures long-lasting quality, making this model both a challenge and a lasting display piece.


Designed with STEM education in mind, this kit is perfect for children aged 8 and up. Clear, step-by-step instructions make assembly easy to follow, and the process, which takes about 5 hours, encourages critical thinking, imagination, and patience. A rewarding project for young builders, this airplane model is not only a fun learning tool but also a valuable collectible and an excellent gift for aviation enthusiasts.

Item Weight25.44 oz.
Length13 in
Wingspan15.7 in
No.10

Revell
Stuka Ju 87G-1 Tank Buster

Lowest price
$20.14
Low Mid
Scale1:48
Number of Parts54
Historically Accurate

German Model Plane Kit for Plane Enthusiasts

The Revell Stuka Ju 87G-1 model kit is a must-have for military aviation enthusiasts and modelers alike. Designed for adult hobbyists, this kit features highly detailed clear and grey parts that recreate the iconic German dive bomber used during World War II. The Stuka, known for its precise attack capabilities, is brought to life with intricate components that reflect its historic significance.


This model is perfect for those who appreciate military history and enjoy detailed, hands-on projects. Assembling the Stuka Ju 87G-1 provides an immersive experience into the world of military aviation, making it an ideal addition to any model collection. Perfect for both experienced modelers and those looking to explore military aircraft modeling.

Item Weight7.4 oz.
Length7.48 in
Wingspan12.2 in

Top 5 Model Airplane Kits

No. 1: Revell A-10 Warthog85-5521

No. 2: Premium HobbiesF-14A Tomcat "VF-142 Ghostriders"

No. 3: Premium HobbiesP-51D Blue Nose

No. 4: Airfix AirfixSupermarine Spitfire Mk.IaA01071B

No. 5: RevellNorth American P-51B Mustang Fighter Aircraft 1/32 Scale Model

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