Airfix

Airfix makes plastic scale model kits, including military and civil aircraft. It is the oldest UK manufacturer of scale plastic model kits and has produced kits for the mass market since 1952. Its aircraft range covers a century of military flight, along with civilian aircraft and helicopters. The company also makes kits of ships, vehicles, figures and spacecraft. Its products serve people starting the hobby as well as builders with more experience.

Aircraft Kits Across Aviation History

Military aircraft are a central part of the Airfix range. Its kits cover subjects from the First World War through the Cold War and later periods.

The company also produces civil aircraft kits and model helicopters. This allows builders to explore different parts of aviation, rather than focusing only on military aircraft.

Aircraft kits can be selected by subject, scale and era. Each kit lists its scale and skill level, helping builders choose a project that fits their experience and available display space.

Airfix has a long connection with the Spitfire. Its first Spitfire kit, known as the BTK Spitfire, appeared in 1953.

Different Scales for Different Builders

Airfix produces aircraft kits in several scales.

Most of its range uses 1:72 scale. This allows collectors to display several aircraft on one shelf while still having room for painting and detail work.

The 1:48 scale kits are larger and provide more cockpit and surface detail. Airfix also produces selected subjects in 1:24 scale.

The choice of scale affects how much space a finished model needs and how much detail a builder can work on.

Getting Started With Model Building

Airfix has products aimed at people who are new to the hobby.

In 2013, it introduced QUICKBUILD, a range of pre-painted kits designed to clip together. The range was created for children aged six and older.

Traditional Airfix kits provide a different experience, with parts that builders assemble and paint. The company also supplies Humbrol paints and modelling materials through its shop.

This gives people different ways to take part in scale modelling, depending on their age, experience and interests.

Airfix History and the Modelling Community

Airfix began producing mass-market plastic model kits in 1952. Its first true kit was the Golden Hind, released that year.

The company later expanded its range and introduced larger scale models. Its 1:24 scale Spitfire 1a was its first Super Kit.

Airfix also supports the modelling community. It has partnered with the Royal Air Force Museum London to create an Airfix Model Club.

For pilots and aviation fans, Airfix provides a hands-on way to explore aircraft history. Building a model encourages attention to aircraft shapes, markings and details, while the finished kit gives enthusiasts something to display.