Image: MomJunction Design Team
Children have an incredibly creative and wild imagination and love spending time building their imaginary world. So, we have brought a list of the best toy airplanes to give wings to your child’s adventures. In today’s day and age, a toy is not simply a wooden figurine or cheap plastic mold. Many toys are designed to educate, entertain, and enhance your child’s ability to understand the world around them. A toy that never fails to impress children is a toy airplane.
As soon as children start to understand the thrill of traveling by aircraft, they become curious about how planes fly. With these toys, you can explain the science to them in detail. You can spend some quality time bonding with your child, learning, and flying airplanes. A toy airplane can also be great for enhancing a child’s hand-eye coordination and motor and sensory skills. Available in various sizes, materials, designs, and features, there is something for everyone. However, choosing the right toy airplane for your child can be challenging. So, take a look at these best-selling options from trusted brands to pick the right toy for your child’s collection.
Top Picks
15 Best Airplane Toys To Let Kids Feel The Thrill Of Flying
1. Best Simplistic Design:Bedwina Airplane Toys
The Bedwina Airplane Toys are suitable for children above three years of age. The plane playset includes various styles of aircraft, including bombers, F-16 fighter jets, and propeller airplanes, among several others, that children can explore and play with. This airplane toy set offers an early introduction to the world of aircraft. They are made in assorted bright colors that intrigue children and keep them engaged. With a simplistic design, they are easy to hold and play with. Made of plastic and diecast, these airplane toys come in a pack of 12.
Pros
- Promotes creative and imaginative play
- Free-moving wheels for easy drive-around
- Non-toxic paint
- Lightweight and long-lasting
Cons
- Might be smaller than expected
- May not have front wheels
"The functional aspects of these airplane toys are worth appreciating. My kid and his pals used these for their recent art project and returned with a trophy. I've decided to use these as party favors."
2. Best Long-Lasting:Green Toys Airplane
If you are looking for toys that leave fewer carbon footprints on Earth, this cute plane for kids from the reputed brand Green Toys might be your answer. This plane toy for toddlers is made from recycled, non-toxic, and eco-friendly plastic and even the toy packaging is plastic-free. The plane is aptly sized for kids and comes with bright, long-lasting colors and rounded edges to be safe for babies to handle. It is pretty lightweight, so your toddler will have no difficulty exploring it and zooming it against the skyline. An additional feature that is great about this toddler travel toy is that it is safe and easy to clean with your hands. So even if your child leaves it in the sun or snow, you can rest assured knowing it is safe. If you want to know more about this product, check out this video on YouTube.
Pros
- BPA-free material
- Spinning propeller
- Two-wheel landing gear
- Suitable for ages one and up
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- May not be convenient to run on the ground
- Some children may lose interest in the toy over time
"For someone like me who mostly prefers eco-conscious toys for my kids, this airplane has become a noteworthy choice for imaginative play. My children also like to have them during their bathtime. Just remember that the propeller needs manual intervention."
Trivia
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 5,830 satisfied customers have left positive reviews about the product on Amazon.
3.Best Educational Toy: Battat Take-Apart Airplane
From the trusted Battat brand comes this educational airplane toy for kids that is a great booster to keep their little hands and minds busy. Those little engineers will love to play with toy drills, building and bringing apart the plane parts that are big-sized and made from child-friendly material so that you are assured of its quality. With batteries, the toddler airplane toy comes alive, and your toddler would love to take it for a spin around the house. It is a great way to enhance their motor skills. Since the Battat toys undergo a strict safety check, you can always be at ease regarding your child’s safety. So grab this chunky piece of toy to gift or buy for the little one. Go ahead and check out this review video for more details about the product.
Pros
- Works as a shape sorter
- Easy-to-use toy drill
- Safe and sturdy design
- Easy to assemble
- Ideal for ages three and up
- Develops hand-eye coordination
Cons
- Drill may be flimsy
- Some may find the bolts tight
"My son enjoys playing with these toy airplanes and seems to have taken to the dismantling and rebuilding features. It gets my nod of approval for its skill-building benefits."
4.Best Environment-Friendly: Cuku Two-Pack LED Light Airplane
Your kids will have a perfect time flying this set of large airplane gliders for kids. They are made from environment-friendly foam, a very low-impact material, gentle on the skin and swift in action. These planes are easy to assemble and operate, plus they come in attractive colors and are pretty lightweight. The design and assembly give these gliders a very smooth movement when flying. These can effectively fly horizontally as well as in loops, making them one of the perfect plane toys. What’s more, it even has a LED nose that glows in the dark for that nighttime play. You must use it to believe it! It is great as a return gift or a quick buy to surprise your kids and keep them actively engaged away from screen time.
Pros
- No hard or sharp parts
- Soft and flexible material
- Safety-tested
- Suitable for outdoor and indoor play
- Develops hand-eye coordination
Cons
- May not be suitable for rough use
- Some may find the cockpit flimsy
"These LED foam airplanes have never stopped entertaining my little ones with their impressive tricks and resilience against crashes. Although they may have a limited lifespan, I'd still recommend them for active play."
Did you know?5.Best Fascinated: Top Race Remote Control War Plane F4U Corsair
Featuring three flying modes – beginner, intermediate, and expert – this warplane is suitable for children and adults. Operated via a wireless remote, this toy plane by Top Race has four channel controls – propeller, rudder, elevator, and aileron. It can keep your child super entertained and fascinated as it can perform a handful of stunts and aerobatic movements at the click of a button. This toy plane is equipped with sturdy airplane wheels to ensure a safe and smooth landing. It has a charging time of around 120 minutes and can run for around 14 minutes. The plane’s fuselage length is 14 Inches, while its wingspan is 15 Inches.
Pros
- 360-degree loop mode
- Propeller-saver technology enabled
- Gear box power system to prevent overcurrent
- Lightweight construction
Cons
- May not include batteries
- May not be suitable for windy days
"My children find these planes quite fascinating, especially for their easy maneuverability and ability to survive crashes. They also enjoy using different flight modes for creative play and skill development. I'd suggest keeping some batteries handy for uninterrupted fun."
6.Best Non-Toxic: Haptime Set Of 16 Pullback Airplanes Vehicle Playset
This jumbo pack of 16 assorted plastic airplane toys is a perfect playtime toy for toddlers and children. The fleet of this miniature set includes jet planes, fighter airplanes, glider planes, helicopters, and many more, which will keep their imagination soaring high. With an easy pull-back and acceleration mechanism, the airplanes take on a good speed. These airplanes are made from non-toxic plastic and come in neat packaging. Each piece has great detailing too. This pack of planes is a fantastic gifting option for any occasion, even as party return gifts. Moreover, the fun and vibrant colors add to their attraction and appeal.
Pros
- Realistic design
- Ideal size for little hands
- Suitable for group play
- Easy to operate
- Fade-resistant
- Does not require batteries
Cons
- Some may find the material flimsy
- May have sharp edges
"This set has been a major hit with my children; the vibrant color combinations instantly lift their moods and engage them for hours. They may not suit rough handling, but they have been a lovely addition to my little aviation enthusiast's playtime."
7. Best Waterproof:Forty4 Car Toy Set
If you are looking for a transportation airplane, you may like this product for all its offerings. This big-sized toy airplane with ample storage area comes with a large waterproof mat and a set of cars that can keep your child busy by providing hours of fun. The car accessories are made from quality die-cast metal. It can be a really cool gift as well. Children will have a lot of fun putting and taking out cars from the inbuilt storage area of the plane and pretending all possibilities of action and adventure in their imagination. The airplane also plays several popular songs, and it is a great playmate to keep children engaged. The kids’ aircraft toy has a sturdy build, so you can be sure that it will survive all the crashes and landings that will come its way.
Pros
- Features light and sound effects
- Push-and-go mechanism
- Ideal for group play
- Anti-wrinkle mat
- Includes 11 mini road signs
- Easy to assemble
- Runway ramp opens and closes
- High-quality wheels
Cons
- Some may find it too loud
- Battery compartment may fall open at times
"This interactive airplane playset with multiple accessories has grabbed my little one's attention. She plays with it for hours and shows it to every visitor at home. Although the quality of the playmat could have been better, the opportunities it offers for imaginative play make it worth every penny spent."
Quick tip8. Best Outdoor Toys:Refresh Sports Foam Airplane Toys For Kids
The Refresh Sports Foam Airplane Toys for Kids have a lightweight styrofoam build and are a great playing company for children across ages and adults. Available in various colors, they are made as outdoor toys and support high flying. With great design and speed, these foam planes can be a great gift option for children and provide a healthy outlet away from screens.
Pros
- Goes up to 100 meters in height
- Tested for glide length
- Rugged and durable
- Has a patented design and flying shape
- Floatable on water
Cons
- Small parts may pose a choking hazard
- Wings may come out when flying
"I'm pretty impressed with this foam plane's durability and versatility. It's easy to assemble, and even my youngest son sets it up on his own. It has been a delightful toy for igniting my children's imagination."
9. Best Durability:Daron Spirit Airlines Single Die-Cast Plane
Another addition from the house of Daron, this toy airplane is indeed a beauty with its striking yellow color. With a blend of plastic and premium quality metal, this cute die-cast airplane toy is compatible with other Daron plane playsets. If your child wants to create the airport of their dreams, it cannot be complete without this attractive fleet. The toy airplane is bound to keep your child hooked for a good number of hours. You can be assured of its quality and durability, and it also holds a warranty if you are faced with any issues/defects.
Pros
- Authentic details
- Officially licensed
- Suitable as a collector’s item
- Compatible with Daron airport playsets
- Ideal for ages three and up
- Sturdy construction
Cons
- Some may find it small
- Stickers may peel off over time
"My little pilots are in love with the authentic details and markings of this plane and always take them along whenever we travel. Although it may not hold up well for heavy use, the joy it brings to children makes it worth every penny."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Do not miss out on this product that has earned 1,581 positive reviews on Amazon.
10. Best Creative Design:Melissa & Doug Wooden Airplane Play Set
More than 60 million customers trust this brand for its creative designs and quality toys. The wood airplane toy for children is a great pretend play airplane set to encourage your toddler’s imagination and interactive skills. The durable aircraft has a classic design and bright, catchy colors to attract every kid’s attention. Its safe, round edges are gentle enough for little kids to play with. Moreover, it doesn’t have any loud electronic sounds or flashy lights, making it the ideal plane toy for long-haul flights. The wooden toy for toddlers comes with a set of cute accessories like figurines and suitcases. It, therefore, is quite ideal in a playgroup setting or for sharing between buddies for great social development.
Pros
- Helps learn sorting and matching
- Develops hand-eye coordination
- Ideal for ages three and up
- Sturdy and durable construction
- Foldable wings
- Easy to store
Cons
- Wood may chip
- Some may find the toy bulky
"Keeping my enthusiastic child in one place has never been easy, but ever since I got him this wooden airplane toy, he has started playing with it for hours in the living room. Although the paint doesn’t seem chip-resistant, its potential for fostering learning makes it a true find."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has earned its stripes, with over 954 reviews on Amazon.
11.Best Lightweight: Joyin Pull Back Airplane Toys
The Joyin Pull Back Airplane Toys are a great playset for children, available in various shapes, and provide engagement and entertainment. This children’s aviation toy set is designed for two and eight years kids. Made of diecast metal material, these toddler airplane toys are lightweight and provide ample control when playing. The toy airplanes are available in assorted colors and consist of 16 airplanes in unique designs, including helicopters, jets, fighter planes, and more. Each of these toys for airplane travel measures 4.5 inches in length approximately.
Pros
- Easy pull-back playing mechanism
- Durable and long-lasting
- Manually rotated propellers make operation easy
- Promotes imaginative and creative playing
- Non-toxic and approved with safety test
Cons
- Airplane pieces may pop off when flying
- Small parts may pose a choking hazard
"These aircraft toys brought a bright smile to my daughter's face at first glance and have become her favorites for their interactive play features. The set has my approval for the way it fosters imaginative play."
12. Best Prints:Heccei Foam Airplane Toys
The Heccei Foam Airplane Toys come as a pack of four toys in bright colors with decorative prints to attract children’s attention. They have a simplistic yet classy design, with each plane having a length of 12.4 inches for a great playing experience. The toy planes are designed for throwing and run on three flight modes for varied player control. They are made of foam which keeps them lightweight. Designed for outdoor playing, these toy planes are a popular playing option for children up to nine years.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Made of eco-friendly material
- Made for impact resistance
- Has great flexibility and durability
- Safety-tested
Cons
- May not have enough instructions
- Wings may be misaligned
"I'm amazed to see my children enjoying to the fullest with these foam airplanes. The entertainment value it adds to their playtime is worth appreciating. I'd recommend these to those looking to keep their children engaged outdoors."
13.Best Sturdy: Unih Construction Car Toy Set With Transport Airplane
This durable transformer plane is nothing less than a playtime treat for kids. Its good size and sturdy body is something that even the bigger boys will like. The model airplane toy for kids is easy to assemble and includes a crane, ramp, construction vehicles, a set of 11 signposts, a vehicle shed, and much more in a compact form. In fact, the construction crane can rotate 360°, which is a very cool feature. The cargo plane set also includes traffic and tree signposts for that realistic touch during the role-play times. The friction-propelled inertia driving makes it zoom across with speed. There are different buttons for light and sound. The kids will be occupied for hours, and this set can be easily paired with other toys. Not to forget, this amazing airplane could be a lovely gifting option for all occasions. So what are you waiting for?
Pros
- Realistic crane design
- Improves motor skills
- In-built storage
- Easy to operate
- Suitable for group play
- Ideal for ages three and up
Cons
- Does not include batteries
- Some may find it difficult to set up
"I always find my son fully engrossed in this airplane toy's interactive features and accessories after school. While some parts seem less sturdy, I'm satisfied with its engaging qualities."
14.Best Realistic Look: iHobby RC Airplane
This remote control airplane for kids is most suitable when your child is a little older. With simple and easy controls, this RC plane will make maneuvering and navigating through the air the most exciting playtime activity for your kid. However, it is best done under adult supervision. This flying toy for children is easy to use and sturdy enough to withstand jerks or rough play. Even the battery charging time is swift. A set of rechargeable batteries is included in the set. It has a realistic look, and the detailing on the plane is quite impressive. As a beginner’s RC airplane toy, this toy promises to do a good job.
Pros
- Made of EPP Styrofoam
- Two-way take off
- Flies fast
- Beginner-friendly operation
- Good flying time
Cons
- Some children may find it difficult to operate the toy
- Some parts may fall off with time
15.Best Remote-Controlled: iPlay, iLearn Toddler RC Plane Toys
The iPlay, iLearn Toddler RC Plane Toys support pretend play with fun colors that are attractive and great at engaging children. These toddler airplane toys have musical features along with remote-controlled and automatic operations. The light and sound features encourage creativity and exploration. This travel play plane set is made of ABS plastic and is free of sharp edges, designed for the playing needs of toddlers and growing kids. They feature two volume settings and a soft light design.
Pros
- Made of durable and long-lasting material
- Automatic sensor feature to prevent collisions
- Easy to operate
- Suitable for motor skills development
Cons
- Might be a little heavy for some children
- Batteries may overheat
"Ever since I got this RC plane for my little one, my child's play sessions have become more lively. The remote is easy to control, and the toy works on different surfaces. Despite its loud sound, it's a fascinating choice for kids."
How To Choose The Right Toy Airplane?
Now that you have a wide range of airplane toys to choose from, you must be wondering about how to make that choice. Here we present you with some important suggestions that you can consider while placing the order.
- Safety: When you buy anything for your little one, the most crucial aspect of the product is its safety standards. Always make sure that you check the age label before purchasing the toy. If the toy contains small parts, there could be a choking hazard. Certain battery settings (small batteries, screw fix, etc.) may not be suitable, especially if your baby is curious to take apart each piece of the toy. Also, look for complex objects or sharp ends so that it doesn’t hurt your baby.
- Size: When babies are tiny, they should be given big-sized planes with not too many small or separate accessories. Bigger planes with windows, chunky wings, or propellers provide them with the opportunity to develop their grasping abilities and gross motor skills. But older children will enjoy planes of all sizes, with more accessories and parts, as they love to take apart and assemble the pieces of their toys.
- Material: The material of the toy airplanes is also of great significance. It may come in wood, plastic, die-cast metal, styrofoam, or mostly a blend of any of these. Always make sure that the material is safe for your kid. All plastic parts should be non-toxic and BPA-free. You may also want to know if the dye or paint used on the toy is child-friendly. The kids often put the toys in their mouths, and the last thing you want is your baby chewing on some toxic material/chemical. The toy should also be durable, without chipping or breaking of parts, since children often engage in rough play or accidentally throw them. You can always contact the seller in case you need any explanation or clarification regarding their products.
- Light and sound features: While the light and sound features always delight the kids, too much over-stimulation may not be very pleasant. These features should be designed to support a child’s imagination and not overpower it. You may want to go for toys where there is an option for volume control or switching off the flashy lights.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How should I fly a toy plane?
The mechanism for flying may differ with the type of toy plane. For example, to make a foam toy plane fly, you need to angle it upwards or horizontally and throw it with some force.
2. Do toy planes need batteries?
Some toy planes need batteries to function. For example, RC toy planes need batteries for the plane and the remote control.
3. Can I carry toy planes in an airplane?
Yes, you may carry a toy plane in an airplane, but ensure the batteries are securely attached to the toy.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Priti Bose is an experienced and talented content writer who reviews kids’ products, toys, and games. Here, she lists the best toy airplanes to let your child’s imagination take flight while playing with this fun-filled toy. She compares multiple products before handpicking the best ones and considers factors such as size, material, and features while writing detailed product descriptions to help you make an informed choice.
The Bottom Line
The idea of soaring high up in the sky attracts many children and adults. Thus, gifting children a toy airplane may be exciting and encourage them to spend more time outside interacting with nature. It may also stimulate their creative thoughts as they engage in adventurous playtime. So, if your child gets excited every time you have to catch a flight or is amazed by the airplanes flying in the sky, give them the best toy airplanes for kids from the list above. Our top three recommendations are the Green Toys Airplane, which is non-toxic and lightweight, the Daron Spirit Airlines Single Die-Cast Plane for its durability and authentic details, and the Battat Take-Apart Airplane, which is easy to assemble.
Infographic: Buying Guide For Toy Airplanes
A toy airplane can be a mix of fun and learning for children. However, it may be challenging to choose the right toy with various options available. Follow the infographic below to know which features to look for while browsing. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
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