Best Airplane Model Kits of 2026

Ann Hale Avatar
Ann Hale
Last Updated: Jan 10, 2026

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Airplane model kits are a popular hobby for aviation enthusiasts of all ages. These kits come in a variety of skill levels, from beginner to advanced, and offer a rewarding challenge for those who enjoy building and displaying model planes. Kits typically include all the necessary pieces and instructions for assembly, and can range from simple snap-together models to more intricate builds that require painting and detailing. Some kits even offer the option to customize the design and paint scheme of the plane. Whether for personal enjoyment or as a gift for a fellow aviation enthusiast, airplane model kits are a great way to bring the excitement of flight into your home.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Revell Corsair F4U-4 1:48 Scale Cover #TOP 1
Revell Corsair F4U-4 1:48 Scale
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Revell 1:48 A10 Warthog Model Kit Cover #TOP 2
Revell 1:48 A10 Warthog Model Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Revell 1:48 SBD Dauntless Model Airplane Kit Cover #TOP 3
Revell 1:48 SBD Dauntless Model Airplane Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Airplane Model Kits

#TOP 1

Revell Corsair F4U-4 1:48 Scale

85-5248
Green
1/48
Revell Corsair F4U-4 1:48 Scale Cover
Revell Corsair F4U-4 1: 48 Scale, Green

The Revell Corsair Model Kit is a 1:48 scale model airplane kit suitable for ages 12 and up. It features fold-out wings, retractable landing gear, and doors for an authentic experience. With 75 parts, this kit offers a challenging yet rewarding build for model enthusiasts. The included decals allow you to customize your model as VMF-214 "Black Sheep" Squadron USS Sicily 1951 or VMA-332 USS Bairoko 1953, adding a personal touch to your creation.

What We Like
1:48 scale model
Fold-out wings
Decals for customization
#TOP 2

Revell 1:48 A10 Warthog Model Kit

85-5521
Green
13.0 inches
Revell 1:48 A10 Warthog Model Kit Cover
Revell 1:48 A10 Warthog (85-5521)

The Revell 1:48 A10 Warthog Model Kit is perfect for hobbyists ages 12 and up who are looking for a challenging and rewarding project. With 165 parts, this kit offers a highly detailed cockpit, complete with a boarding ladder and clear canopy. A pilot figure with realistic uniform details adds to the authenticity. This model kit is skill level 4 and comes with illustrated assembly instructions.

What We Like
Highly detailed cockpit with boarding ladder and clear canopy
Realistic pilot figure with uniform details
Comes with illustrated assembly instructions
#TOP 3

Revell 1:48 SBD Dauntless Model Airplane Kit

85-5249
Gray
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Revell 1:48 SBD Dauntless Model Airplane Kit Cover
Revell 1:48 SBD Dauntless, Gray

The Revell 1:48 SBD Dauntless Model Airplane Kit #85-5249 is recommended for ages 12 and up, with a skill level of 4. The kit includes 53 parts molded from light gray and translucent material. The finished model has a 1:48 scale, with a length of 7-3/4" and a wingspan of 10". Paint and glue are not included.

What We Like
Highly detailed model with 53 parts
Translucent material adds realism to the finished model
Recommended for ages 12 and up with a skill level of 4
#TOP 4

Revell SR-71 Blackbird Model Kit

85-5810
Multi Colour
1:72 Scale
Revell SR-71 Blackbird Model Kit Cover
Revell 85-5810 SR-71 Blackbird 1:72 Scale 66-Piece Skill Level 4 Model Airplane Building Kit

The Revell SR-71 Kit is a detailed model airplane building kit designed for ages 12 and up. With 66 parts, it offers accurate surface details that will enhance your modeling experience. You’ll also receive a GTD-21 surveillance drone with a cart, adding an exciting element to your build. The included decals feature authentic U.S. Air Force markings, ensuring your model looks true to life. While the kit is molded in black and clear, you'll need to supply your own paint and glue to complete it, allowing you to customize your model to your liking.

What We Like
Detailed surface features
Includes surveillance drone
Authentic U.S. Air Force decals
Customizable with paint
#TOP 5

Revell RMX855872 1:48 Maverick's F-14A Tomcat Model Kit

85-5872
Silver
Large
Revell RMX855872 1:48 Maverick's F-14A Tomcat Model Kit Cover
Revell Maverick's F-14A Tomcat

Revell RMX855872 1:48 Maverick's F-14A Tomcat [Top Gun] [Model Building KIT] is a plastic model kit for novice level builders, containing parts to build one model. Assembly and painting are required, and the kit does not include glue or paint. This model kit is not a toy.

What We Like
Suitable for novice level builders
Allows for customization with personal painting and assembly
Provides a high level of detail and accuracy in the finished model
#TOP 6

Revell 85-5871 Top Gun Maverick's F/A-18E Super Hornet Fighter Jet Kit

85-5871
Blue
Medium
Revell 85-5871 Top Gun Maverick's F/A-18E Super Hornet Fighter Jet Kit Cover
Revell Maverick's F/A-18 Super Hornet

Experience the challenge of building your own Top Gun Maverick's F/A-18E Super Hornet Fighter Jet with this 161-piece model kit. Construct the jet with full color Top Gun waterslide decals, MK83 bombs, AIM guided rockets, and a separate cockpit access ladder. The kit is molded in light gray and clear and is recommended for ages 13 and up.

What We Like
Challenging and rewarding building experience
Full color Top Gun waterslide decals included
Includes MK83 bombs and AIM guided rockets for added detail
#TOP 7

Revell 1:48 B25J Mitchell Model Kit

85-5512
Brown
1/48
Revell 1:48 B25J Mitchell Model Kit Cover
Revell 1: 48 B25J Mitchell, Brown

The Revell B25J Mitchell Kit is a detailed plastic airplane model designed for hobbyists aged 12 and up. With 147 parts, it offers a challenging build that helps you develop your modeling skills. The 1:48 scale size means the finished model measures about 14 inches long with a wingspan of nearly 17 inches, making it a great display piece. Included crew figures and weighted tires add realism to your model, while the machine guns in the clear glass nose enhance the authentic look. This kit allows you to create one of two versions from the famous 345th Bomb Group, giving you a piece of aviation history to build and enjoy.

What We Like
Detailed 147 parts
Realistic crew figures
Weighted tires included
Authentic machine gun nose
Accurate 1:48 scale

Tamiya 1/48 Vought F4U-1D Corsair Model Kit

TAM61061
blue
1/48
Tamiya 1/48 Vought F4U-1D Corsair Model Kit Cover
Tamiya 61061 1/48 Vought F4U-1D Corsair Plastic Model Airplane Kit

This Tamiya model kit for the Vought F4U-1D Corsair has a package height of 5.842 cm, package length of 21.59 cm, and package width of 30.226 cm. The kit is a highly accurate static display model suitable for airplane model kit enthusiasts.

What We Like
Highly accurate static display model
Suitable for airplane model kit enthusiasts
#TOP 9

Academy USAF F-35A Lightning II Model Kit

12507
Silver
1/72
Academy USAF F-35A Lightning II Model Kit Cover
Academy USAF F-35A Lightning II Model Kit

The Academy F-35A Model Kit is a detailed 1/72 scale airplane model perfect for hobbyists who enjoy realistic builds. The kit features finely crafted panel lines on both the top and bottom surfaces, giving your model an authentic look. You can choose from three different marking options, allowing you to customize the appearance to your liking. The model includes movable parts such as the canopy, bay doors, and landing gear, which adds to the interactive experience and lets you display the model in various poses. Plus, a seated pilot figure is included to enhance the realism of your finished model.

What We Like
Detailed panel lines
Three marking options
Movable canopy and doors
Positionable landing gear
Includes pilot figure
#TOP 10

Tamiya Lockheed Martin F-16CJ Model

TAM61098
Grey
Small
Tamiya Lockheed Martin F-16CJ Model Cover
Tamiya 61098 1/48 Lockheed Martin F-16CJ Plastic Model Airplane Kit

Tamiya F-16CJ Model Kit is a detailed 1/48 scale aircraft model that includes one pilot figure. The pilot can be displayed with either a standard or JHMCS flight helmet. The kit also features markings for 3 different aircraft, one being the 5th Air Force commander's plane from 2005. Made by Tamiya, this model is a great addition to any airplane model enthusiast's collection, offering a realistic and engaging building experience.

What We Like
Detailed markings
Includes pilot figure
1/48 Scale
Buying Guide Image

Your Guide to the Best Airplane Model Kits

Introduction

As a model enthusiast, the choice of an airplane model kit can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Here are some tips to help you choose the right airplane model kit for your skill level and interests.

Determine Your Skill Level

The first thing to consider when choosing an airplane model kit is your skill level. Are you a beginner or an experienced model builder? Beginner kits typically have fewer parts and simpler instructions, while advanced kits may have more intricate details and a higher level of difficulty. It's important to choose a kit that is appropriate for your skill level to ensure that you can complete the model successfully and enjoy the process.

Consider the Scale

Another important factor to consider when choosing an airplane model kit is the scale. Model kits are available in a variety of scales, ranging from small to large. The scale refers to the size of the model in relation to the actual aircraft. For example, a 1/72 scale model is 1/72 the size of the real aircraft. The scale you choose will depend on your preference and the amount of space you have available to display your model.

Choose Your Era

Airplane model kits are available in a range of eras, including World War I, World War II, and modern aircraft. Consider which era you are interested in and choose a kit that reflects that time period. This will help you narrow down your options and find a kit that is more meaningful to you.

Think About the Level of Detail

When it comes to airplane model kits, there is a wide range of detail available. Some kits have a high level of detail, with intricate parts and a high level of realism. Others are more simplified, with fewer parts and a more basic level of detail. Consider how much time and effort you want to put into your model and choose a kit that is appropriate for your desired level of detail.

Read the Reviews

Before making a purchase, be sure to read reviews of the airplane model kits you are considering. Look for reviews from modelers who have similar skill levels and interests to your own. This will give you a good idea of the quality of the kit and any potential issues you may encounter during the build process.

Conclusion

Choosing an airplane model kit can be a challenging task, but with these tips in mind, you can find a kit that is perfect for your skill level, interests, and desired level of detail. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced model builder, there is a kit out there for you. Happy building!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much does it cost to build a kit airplane?

The cost of building a kit airplane can vary depending on the project. Some kits can be built for under $10,000, but for a two-seat airplane, the project cost is typically $20,000 and up. It's important to note that using a used engine can help reduce costs in some cases.

2. What glue do you use for model airplanes?

For model airplanes, it is recommended to use modeling cement or polystyrene glue. These glues contain a welding agent that melts the plastic and creates a strong bond between the parts.

Homemade planes, also known as custom-built aircraft, require a pilot license to fly and an airworthiness certificate for the airplane. However, ultralights generally do not require a pilot's license or an airworthiness certificate. There are different types of materials used in building amateur-built airplanes.

4. Do you need a license to fly a homemade plane?

Yes, a person must be a licensed pilot to fly homemade planes. Pilots of amateur-built/homebuilt aircraft must earn and maintain the same federal pilot training and ratings as those who fly factory-built aircraft.

5. Are model airplanes hard to build?

Building model airplanes and military aircraft requires a combination of skills and techniques. While none of the skills are particularly difficult, mastering them will improve the quality of your finished models. When starting, choose an all-plastic model aircraft kit.

6. Can anyone build a kit plane?

Building a kit plane is possible for anyone with basic skills and a willingness to commit to the project. It's important to understand that building your own airplane requires a commitment from both the individual and their family.

7. Is Gorilla Glue good for foam airplanes?

Gorilla Glue is suitable for foam airplanes and can provide a strong bond. It is recommended to slightly moisten the foam surface before applying the glue.

Editor's Notes

During our airplane model kit research, we found 24 airplane model kit products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 28,576 customer reviews through our big data system to write the airplane model kits list. We found that most customers choose airplane model kits with an average price of $27.34.

The airplane model kits are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of airplane model kits, including Revell, TAMIYA, ACADEMY HOBBY MODEL KITS. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ann Hale Avatar

Ann Hale is a seamstress, pattern maker, and fashion designer with extensive sewing experience. She has worked in the fashion industry for over 10 years now after receiving Associates's Degree in fashion design in 2010. Also as a writer, she has many creative and unique insights when it comes to articles.