Aviation Retail Direct

Aviation Retail Direct is a UK retailer of aircraft models, aviation books, memorabilia and gifts. Based in Hillingdon, the business has been involved in aviation since 1994. Its history began on the roof of Terminal 2 at London's Heathrow Airport. Today, it serves aviation enthusiasts and collectors around the world, with products covering civil aircraft, military aviation and airport scenes.

Diecast Aircraft Models

Aircraft models are a central part of Aviation Retail Direct. The range includes modern airliners, older aircraft and military types. Collectors can choose models from different manufacturers and in different scales.

The INFLIGHT200 collection features detailed diecast aircraft models representing airlines from around the world. Other manufacturers include JC Wings, NG Models and Gemini Jets. The retailer also carries PPC Models and aircraft produced by British manufacturers.

Aviation Retail Direct offers models of older aircraft, including Concorde. Its selection also covers military fighters and bombers. Some aircraft are available in different airline liveries, giving collectors a choice of how they want an aircraft represented.

The retailer also takes pre-orders for upcoming model releases. This allows collectors to reserve specific aircraft or liveries before the models become available.

Building a Model Airport

Aviation Retail Direct sells more than aircraft alone. Its airport modelling range includes terminals, airport buildings, ground support equipment, vehicles and scenery.

These products help collectors build airport displays around their aircraft models. A model airliner can be placed alongside terminal buildings and service vehicles rather than displayed on its own.

Different buildings and ground equipment can be combined to create a larger airport scene. This part of the range is useful for people who enjoy collecting aircraft and building the setting around them.

Aviation Books, Gifts and Toys

The retailer also supplies aviation books, publications and reference material. Its selection includes World Air Forces Directories and other books for aviation enthusiasts.

Other products include aviation calendars, seatbelt keyrings and items linked to Heathrow Airport, such as a classic control tower.

Younger aviation fans can find aircraft toys and airport playsets. These offer a different way to enjoy aircraft without collecting detailed scale models.

The combination of books, models, toys and memorabilia gives visitors several ways to explore their interest in flying.

Aviation Events and Specialist Models

Aviation Retail Direct regularly attends aviation fairs, events and shows. It brings aircraft models, books and memorabilia to these gatherings, including events at Kempton Park.

The business also provides bespoke aircraft models made by specialist model makers to meet individual requirements.

These services sit alongside its standard model ranges and its long history in aviation retail.

For pilots and aviation fans, Aviation Retail Direct offers ways to keep a connection with aircraft beyond the airport. Its models, publications and gifts cover different interests, from airline history to military aircraft and detailed airport collections.