Ready for takeoff? Every child, at some point, looks up at the sky and dreams of flying. Whether it’s soaring through clouds or performing daring acrobatic maneuvers, the allure of airplanes is universal. And what better way to fuel that imagination than with the best airplane toys for kids? From simple gliders to sophisticated remote-controlled planes, there’s a world of aerial adventure waiting to be explored.
Choosing the right toy can feel like navigating a busy airport, but don’t worry! We’ve handpicked seven fantastic options that offer endless hours of fun, help develop motor skills, and even encourage outdoor play. Let’s dive into our top picks for the ultimate flying experience!
Why Airplane Toys Are a Fantastic Choice for Kids
Beyond just being fun, playing with toy airplanes offers a wealth of developmental benefits. They spark imagination, encouraging kids to create their own stories and adventures. Many flying toys, especially gliders and RC planes, also help improve hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, and even spatial awareness. Plus, they’re a brilliant way to get children off screens and enjoy some fresh air, making them ideal outdoor flying toys.
Our Top Picks for the Best Airplane Toys for Kids
Here’s our detailed look at some of the most exciting and engaging airplane toys currently on the market.
1. Magnetic Travel Toys for Toddlers Kids 5PCS, Airplane Car…
These aren’t your typical flying toys, but they’re absolutely brilliant for keeping little ones entertained, especially when traveling! This set of five magnetic, bendable humanoid figures is a genius solution for quiet, imaginative play on the go. Made from high-quality silicone with durable built-in magnets, these colorful characters can stick to various surfaces and be posed in countless ways, making them perfect companions for long car rides, restaurant waits, or, yes, even airplane journeys. They encourage creativity and sensory exploration without any noise or fuss.
- Key Features:
- Set of 5 bendable humanoid magnetic figures.
- Made from high-quality silicone with durable built-in magnets.
- Bright colors and comfortable feel, great as sensory fidget toys.
- Small, silent, and easy to carry, perfect for travel.
- 100% safe materials, meets ASTM toy safety standards.
- Pros:
- Excellent for quiet, portable entertainment during travel.
- Promotes creativity and fine motor skills.
- Durable, bendable, and resistant to fading.
- Safe and non-toxic materials.
- Engaging for a wide age range (toddlers to adults).
- Cons:
- Not a traditional “flying” airplane toy, more of a travel companion.
- Might not appeal to kids looking for active flying play.
- User Impressions: Parents absolutely rave about these as a lifesaver for travel. They love how quiet and engaging they are, keeping kids occupied for extended periods without resorting to screens. Many highlight their durability and the endless ways children find to play with them.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Zetz Brands Bump and Go Airplane Toy – Toy Airplane…
Get ready for an immersive experience with the Zetz Brands Bump and Go Airplane Toy! This delightful toy airplane brings the excitement of flight right into your home with its realistic design, flashing 4D LED lights, and authentic sound effects. Perfect for budding pilots aged 3 and up, its unique bump-and-go mechanism means it automatically changes direction when it encounters an obstacle, ensuring continuous playtime without getting stuck. Watch your little one’s face light up as this plane glides, swivels, and illuminates the room with a magical light show!
- Key Features:
- Realistic airplane design with sound and light functions.
- Unique 4D flashing LED lights create a colorful show on the floor.
- Features a bump-and-go mechanism with smart motion sensors.
- Rotating wheels for smooth movement.
- Ideal for kids aged 3 and above.
- Pros:
- Highly engaging with interactive lights and sounds.
- Encourages active play with its continuous movement.
- Durable and designed for endless hours of fun.
- Simple operation, perfect for younger children.
- Cons:
- Requires batteries (not included).
- Might be noisy for some parents.
- User Impressions: Customers love the vibrant lights and realistic sounds that captivate young children. The bump-and-go feature is a big hit, as it keeps kids entertained without constant intervention. It’s often described as a go-to gift for toddlers who are fascinated by airplanes.
- See it on Amazon here
3. BooTaa 4 Pack Airplane/Flying Toys, 17.5″ Large Throwing…
Take playtime outdoors with the BooTaa 4 Pack of large throwing foam airplanes! These 17.5-inch gliders are crafted from lightweight, impact-resistant EPP high-polymer material, making them incredibly durable and safe for kids. What makes them stand out are their two flight modes – glider and reversal – easily changed by adjusting the small wing in the tail. This pack is fantastic for promoting active outdoor play, getting kids away from screens, and helping them develop coordination and critical thinking as they learn to launch and control their planes.
- Key Features:
- Pack of 4 large (17.5″) throwing foam airplanes.
- Two flight modes: Glider mode and Reversal mode.
- Made from eco-friendly, lightweight, and impact-resistant EPP material.
- Easy to assemble, no batteries required.
- Suitable for all ages, encouraging parent-child interaction.
- Pros:
- Promotes outdoor activity and reduces screen time.
- Develops hand-eye coordination and observation skills.
- Durable and safe for children.
- Multiple planes for racing and sharing.
- Excellent value for a multi-pack.
- Cons:
- Requires an open outdoor space for optimal flight.
- Can be affected by strong winds.
- User Impressions: Families adore these foam gliders for backyard fun. Reviewers frequently mention how durable they are, surviving countless crashes, and how much children enjoy experimenting with the different flight modes. They’re praised for being simple, effective, and a fantastic way to engage kids outside.
- See it on Amazon here
4. 3 Pack Airplane Launcher Toy, 12.6″ Foam Glider Led…
Amp up the excitement with this 3 Pack Airplane Launcher Toy, featuring 12.6-inch foam gliders equipped with vibrant LED lights! This set offers a unique 2-in-1 play experience: kids can either throw the planes by hand or launch them with the included powerful launcher for flights up to 49 feet. Just like some other foam gliders, these also boast two flight modes (parallel and rotate) for varied aerial action. The added LED lights mean the fun doesn’t have to stop when the sun goes down, making for dazzling night flights. It’s a fantastic outdoor toy for kids aged 4-12, encouraging hands-on assembly and active play.
- Key Features:
- 3 foam glider planes (blue, orange, red) with an airplane launcher.
- 2 flight modes: Parallel and Rotate, adjusted by tailwing position.
- Colorful LED lights for day and night flying.
- Easy to assemble and disassemble.
- Fly up to 49 feet with the launcher.
- Made from environmental ABS plastic materials.
- Pros:
- Launcher provides extra power and excitement for longer flights.
- LED lights add a cool factor and extend playtime into the evening.
- Encourages DIY interest and improves motor skills.
- Durable and safe materials.
- Great for outdoor family fun and parent-child interaction.
- Cons:
- Launcher mechanism might take a little practice for younger kids.
- Still best used in open outdoor areas.
- User Impressions: Parents and kids alike are thrilled with the launcher’s power and the visual spectacle of the LED lights at dusk. The ability to choose between hand-throwing and launching adds versatility, and the planes are noted for their robust construction, standing up to enthusiastic play.
- See it on Amazon here
5. 4DRC V32 Foam Remote Control Airplanes RC Planes for Kids…
For the aspiring pilot ready for a more advanced flying experience, the 4DRC V32 Foam Remote Control Airplane is a game-changer. This RC plane is packed with exciting features like 360° flips, aerobatic rolls, gravity sensing, and three-speed options, allowing kids and adults to perform impressive aerial stunts. Made from soft yet sturdy EPP material with protective propellers, it’s designed for durability and safety, bouncing back from tumbles. The integrated LED lights make it a spectacular sight against the night sky, transforming every flight into a magical display.
- Key Features:
- Advanced RC airplane with 360° flips, aerobatic rolls, and gravity sensing.
- Headless mode, one-key takeoff/landing, altitude hold, and three-speed options.
- Equipped with bright LED lights for night flying.
- Easy to use with intuitive controls; no assembly required.
- Durable EPP material and protective propeller structure for safety.
- Pros:
- Offers a truly immersive and exciting flying experience.
- Teaches more advanced piloting skills and control.
- Safe design with protected propellers and durable foam.
- Spectacular LED lights for extended playtime.
- Suitable for both beginners and more experienced flyers.
- Cons:
- Higher price point compared to manual gliders.
- Requires charging for flight time.
- User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by this RC plane’s maneuverability and the ease with which it performs stunts. The durability is a frequently praised aspect, with many reporting it withstands numerous crashes. The LED lights are a huge hit, making evening flights a real showstopper.
- See it on Amazon here
6. 2 Pack LED Light Airplane, 17.5″ Large Throwing 2 Flight…
Bring joy and light to your child’s outdoor adventures with this 2 Pack LED Light Airplane set! These 17.5-inch throwing foam gliders come with bright LED flashlights embedded in their fuselages, allowing for mesmerizing flights even after dark. Crafted from eco-friendly EPP polymer material, they are lightweight, impact-resistant, and feature round edges for safe play. With two flight modes – parallel and reverse – adjustable by the tail wing, kids can easily experiment with different flight paths. This set of best airplane toys for kids is perfect for encouraging active, parent-child interaction and imaginative play.
- Key Features:
- 2 large (17.5″) throwing foam airplanes with LED lights.
- 2 flight modes: Glider (parallel) and Reverse (rotate).
- Made from safe, lightweight, and impact-resistant EPP polymer material.
- Easy to install and disassemble.
- Round edges for child safety.
- Pros:
- LED lights provide dazzling night flights and extended fun.
- Durable and flexible, resisting damage from crashes.
- Promotes outdoor play, motor skills, and parent-child bonding.
- Safe and non-toxic materials.
- Good value with two planes for shared play.
- Cons:
- LED lights require small batteries (often included but eventually need replacing).
- Best performance in open spaces.
- User Impressions: Customers love the simplicity and effectiveness of these gliders, especially the added flair of the LED lights. They’re often highlighted as a fantastic gift that gets kids running and playing outside. Many note the impressive flight distance and the fun of experimenting with different flight modes.
- See it on Amazon here
7. Fuwidvia 3 Pack Airplane Launcher Toys, 13.2” LED Foam…
The Fuwidvia 3 Pack Airplane Launcher Toys offer an exhilarating blend of speed and light, perfect for energetic kids. This set includes three colorful 13.2-inch LED foam planes and a powerful launcher, allowing for impressive flights up to 49 feet! Children can choose between two flight modes – Gyrant (rotate) and Gliding – by simply adjusting the tail wing. The integrated LED lights mean that the planes are visible and exciting to watch as they streak across the sky, day or night. It’s an excellent way for kids to cultivate hand-eye coordination and observational skills while enjoying active outdoor fun.
- Key Features:
- 3 colorful LED foam planes (green, orange, blue) and a launcher.
- Two flight modes: Gyrant (rotate) and Gliding.
- Integrated LED lights with on/off switch for night play.
- Flies up to 33-49 feet with the launcher.
- Made from safe, bendable molded foam.
- Pros:
- Launcher provides an exciting boost for impressive flights.
- LED lights add a visually appealing element, especially at night.
- Promotes hand-eye coordination and outdoor activity.
- Durable and safe foam construction.
- Multiple planes for group play or continuous fun.
- Cons:
- Launcher requires a bit of strength, might be tricky for very young children.
- Flight distance can vary based on technique and wind conditions.
- User Impressions: Reviewers are very positive about the power of the launcher and the vibrant LED lights. Kids love the “wow” factor of launching the planes and watching them fly, especially in the dark. The durability of the foam is also a common compliment, as these planes can withstand numerous landings.
- See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions About Airplane Toys
Q1: What age are airplane toys suitable for?
A: Airplane toys come in a wide range for various age groups. Simple foam gliders and bump-and-go toys are often great for toddlers (ages 2-5). More complex throwing planes and basic RC planes are good for elementary school children (ages 5-10). Advanced RC planes and model kits are typically better suited for older kids and pre-teens (ages 10+). Always check the manufacturer’s recommended age range.
Q2: What are the main benefits of playing with airplane toys?
A: Playing with airplane toys offers numerous benefits, including stimulating imagination, improving hand-eye coordination, developing fine and gross motor skills, enhancing problem-solving abilities (especially with gliders and RC planes), and encouraging outdoor play, which helps reduce screen time.
Q3: How do I choose between a throwing glider, a bump-and-go plane, and an RC plane?
A:
* Throwing Gliders: Best for active outdoor play, teaching basic physics, and building throwing skills. They’re usually inexpensive and very durable.
* Bump-and-Go Planes: Ideal for younger children (toddlers) who enjoy lights, sounds, and simple, continuous movement. Great for indoor play.
* RC Planes: Offer the most control and a more advanced flying experience. They require practice and develop precision skills. Best for older kids and open outdoor spaces.
Q4: Are foam airplane toys durable?
A: Yes, many foam airplane toys are made from EPP (expanded polypropylene) or similar high-polymer materials, which are known for their lightweight nature, flexibility, and excellent impact resistance. This makes them very durable and able to withstand numerous crashes, especially during outdoor play.
Q5: What safety considerations should I keep in mind when buying airplane toys?
A: Look for toys made from non-toxic, child-safe materials that meet safety standards (like ASTM in the USA). For RC planes, ensure propellers are either well-protected or that children are supervised during use. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for assembly and operation, and ensure kids play in open, safe areas away from people, pets, and obstacles.
Q6: Can airplane toys be used indoors and outdoors?
A: It depends on the toy. Smaller, softer foam gliders and bump-and-go planes can often be used indoors in a spacious room. However, most throwing gliders and especially RC planes are designed for outdoor use in open areas like parks or backyards to ensure adequate space for flight and to avoid damaging property.
Q7: Do LED lights on airplane toys make a big difference?
A: Absolutely! LED lights add a fantastic visual element, making the planes look incredibly cool, especially when flying at dusk or night. They also extend playtime, allowing kids to enjoy their toys even after the sun goes down, and make it easier to track the plane in low light conditions.
Ready for Liftoff!
There you have it – a fantastic selection of the best airplane toys for kids that promise to bring joy, inspire imagination, and encourage active play. Whether your child dreams of being a fighter pilot, a commercial aviator, or simply loves the thrill of watching something soar through the air, there’s an airplane toy here that’s perfect for them. So, go ahead, pick one out, and watch their spirits take flight!