Airplane Model Scales: Complete Guide & Facts

As a collector, what factors do you consider the most important? Is it the attention to detail, the model’s backstory, or a recommendation from friends and family? It’s OK to choose whatever makes you happy, but the scale is one of the most important ones. Scale is a significant but entirely overlooked factor in diecast collecting. Thus, here, I will be giving you a fully in-depth article about aircraft model scales.

What scale are model planes? Generally speaking, model planes or aircraft would usually have scales ranging from 1:18 up to 1:1250. However, some special model planes and aircraft are different, such as the 1:3 RC Stearman and the 1:6 Concorde replica.

This blog will explain everything you need to know about aircraft scales. Make sure to read to the bottom to make this the most popular online hangout for modelers and collectors. We would not only explain scales, but we would also discuss the most popular and largest scale for aircraft. Happy reading!

What Scale Are Model Planes?

In general, you can find aircraft models ranging from 1:18 up until 1:1250 on regular stores. However, there are some exceptions, and they are considered as special models. A perfect example is the largest aircraft model, the Boeing 747 Virgin Atlantic, a 1:13 scale model.

Scale Model Planes are small planes that are created to the same proportions as the actual thing. Flying and non-flying model aircraft are the two most common categories.

There are also different categories such as static, display, and shelf models. These are terms used for non-flying models.

Flying models range from tiny toy gliders to scale models driven by electricity.

Commercial static model aircraft are available in several scales, ranging from 1:18 to 1:1250.

The most common scales for plastic model kits that require assembly and painting are 1:144, 1:72, 1:48, 1:32, and 1:24.

Does Aircraft Model Size Matter?

Aircraft model size matter whether we look at the real models or their replicas. For real models, it is important because it shows the capacity of the aircraft. For models, scales are important since larger planes tend to be more detailed than smaller ones.

When it comes to some of the most prevalent models on the market, there are several important advantages to having larger models, ranging from larger planes to larger parts.

The level of detail you can attain is significantly higher, such as customizing it with your embellishments.

The only exception is for models made to be placed on a desktop, which must be small enough not to take up the entire space.

Furthermore, I would like to add that larger models are good when it comes to RC planes. The reason is it would have enough battery to sustain longer flights.

They might be heavier, but they also generally have larger batteries.

The only thing you need to consider for plain models is their attention to detail and, of course, where you would put it.

This article is for aircraft scales, for an Analysis of Diecast Model Scales such as cars, trucks, and trains, you may check out this article: Diecast Model Scales Analysis.

What Is The Most Popular Scale For Model Aircraft?

The most common scale for model aircraft globally is the 1/72 scale, which was the original size used for some of the earliest plastic assembly kits developed in England in the late 1930s. The 1/144 scale is the 2nd most popular, with up to 30″ or more wingspans for bomber models.

Model airplanes are also available in different scales, such as 1/24 and a variety of smaller models.

The most common scale for automotive models is 1:24; for military models, 1:35 or 1:48; and for aircraft, 1:32, 1:48, or 1:72. We occasionally see 1:144 commercial planes, but this is uncommon with smaller planes because the originals are so enormous.

How Scale Helps To Maintain Consistency

The scale helps to maintain consistency by making your models’ width, length, and height relative to the actual models. Thus, scale removes the guessing from customizing your model since we have something to measure compared to the real models.

You can easily keep your new model’s length, width, size, and shape uniform by using the original model as a point of reference.

This scale aims to make sure that the wings are relative to the size of the aircraft’s body. These minute details are what make models realistic.

This means you won’t have to compromise the model’s overall appearance by using pieces that aren’t the correct size.

Scales are essential for details. For example, metal or diecast models are very hard to detail, considering that you’re dealing with metals.

However, there is a new form of diecasting which uses resin. This makes sturdy and more detailed models. I really can’t wait for the technology to be used on model planes.

I have made an article about resin diecast because it is fascinating. You can find it here: What is a Resin Diecast.

What Is The Biggest Airplane Model?

The current biggest replica model of an airplane is the 1:6 scale of Concorde, which has a size of 13 x 33 x 6.1 feet. This Concorde model plane is so big that it weighs 328 pounds. Another worth noting is the 1:13 Boeing 747 model, which is 17.8 feet long and has a wingspan of 16.24 feet,

Although there is no official Guinness World Record for the largest RC plane, this fantastic Concorde replica appears to be the world’s largest. Steven and Matthew Bishop designed and built the model at a scale of 1:6.

It measures 13 feet (4 meters) in wingspan, 33 feet (10 meters) in length, and 6.1 feet (1.85 meters). The RC plane is powered by four JetCat P300 Pro engines and weighs 328 pounds (149 kilograms).

To be honest, I can’t decide between the Concorde or the Boeing 747.

Granted that the Concorde model is a 1:6 model, but the Boeing 747 is a larger plane, so even if it is a 1:13 model, it can still compete when it comes to size.

There are quite a few more huge model aircraft or airplanes that are also worth mentioning.

Here are a few of the more well-known examples (however, there are few more out there)

1. World War II B-50 “Superfortress.”

In the United Kingdom, an RC model of a World War II B-50 “Superfortress” grabbed headlines. The electric RC bomber, which costs over £8,000 (about $11,000) to construct, is so large (100lb/45kg) that it can only stay in the air for around eight minutes.

The RC plane has a wingspan of around 20 feet (6 meters), and the Civil Aviation Authority of the United Kingdom classifies it as a light aircraft.

2. H1 Racer

Aero Telemetry’s half-scale H1 Racer is one of the world’s largest RC planes. It is propelled by a 360cc two-stroke two-cylinder 30hp engine.

The experts who worked on the project were required to design a unique exhaust system and tweak the carburetor to increase the engine’s power output.

This 1:2 scale H1 Racer is massive.

3. RC Stearman N2S-4

This 1:3 scale RC Stearman N2S-4 is one of the world’s largest RC planes. YouTuber elimay421 developed and constructed it.

The Seidel UMS ST 7-250B, which powers this RC plane, sounds as good as it looks.

It’s a biplane that was first used as a trainer airplane in the 1930s and 1940s, with over 10,000 built.

4. Boeing 747-400 model Virgin Atlantic

You can find more information on the Boeing 747-400 Virgin Atlantic in this article. It is about large RC planes. What Is The Largest Remote Control Airplane?

What Is The Biggest Model Scale For An Airplane

When it comes to the Model Scale of a plane, the largest you can find in regular stores are the 1/32 scale. However, few stores can offer up to 1/18 scale. When it comes to the biggest model scale, there is a 7/8 scale of the Pitts Python biplane. 7/8 means that it is almost the same size as the real-life version.

The biggest airplane model is the 1/32 scale. For hobbyists, this is a relatively new scale. With wingspans of up to 30″ or more for bomber models, it is the largest of the four most common sizes.

However, there are a few stores that offer a 1/18 scale, but it is rare.

When we talk about the most life-like scale of an airplane, it is the 7/8 scale of the Pitts Python biplane. This airplane model is almost the same size as the real deal.

The 7/8 scale model was made by a man called Gregg Hayfield.

The attention to detail on these massive kits is incredible, and the modeler will have a fantastic time putting them together.

The main disadvantage is that due to their large size, they are difficult to showcase.

Airplane Model Scales: How To Choose The Perfect Model Size For You

The choice to create your first scale model begins with a decision to clarify what matters to you.

Many collectors start by looking through some selections to see which one appeals to them the most.

They get recommendations from friends, the way it looks, or the fascinating narrative behind it are all elements that could influence your selection.

But what about proportions? What is the optimal scale for model construction, and what does model building scale even mean?

Models are available in various scales, with the most common being 1:4, 1:8, 1:12, 1:16, 1:18, 1:24, 1:48, and 1:72 being the most popular.

The first big step toward mastering your model builds is deciding on a scale that works for you.

You can show off your creative skills once you understand the size you’re working with.

Remember that the 1:4 is mostly found only for car models. While there is a 7/8 scale aircraft, it is almost impossible to buy one in regular stores.

When reading the scale, the number on the left side of the colon (typically 1) denotes the model, while the number on the right denotes how much larger the original thing is in contrast.

For instance, here is an existing item along with its scale, model sizes, and original sizes to help understand this concept:

Note: These are just samples and not real models

Sample 1:

ITEM: Hummer H1
SCALE: 1:8
MODEL LENGTH: 570mm
ACTUAL LENGTH: 4560mm

Sample 2:

ITEM: Millennium Falcon
SCALE: 1:1
MODEL LENGTH: 808mm
ACTUAL LENGTH: 808mm

Replica models, in this case, airplanes, are manufactured in a lesser proportion of the actual object, in which you can handle the model size.

The Millennium Falcon, for example, is a 1:1 scale model. This replica, not the real Millennium Falcon, is the same size as the Star Wars movie prop.

Could you imagine making a 34.75-meter-long scale model of this legendary starship? A model of this magnitude will require a space as big as a football field to be displayed on.

Calculator For Converting Scales

When creating a model, one of the first things to consider is scale.

However, I know how annoying it could be to deal with math. So I found something interesting for you.

You can use this Calculator to match any portion to practically any scale in inches and millimeters if you have the measurements of a full-size vessel or any section of it. That Calculator allows you to compute the scale size precisely.

Conclusion

Scale models are usually smaller than the real-life object they depict unless you are transported into an alternate universe or wealthy.

You can show off your creative building once you understand the size you’re working with.

The first big step toward mastering your model builds is deciding on a scale that works for you.

Scale removes guessing out of customizing your model by using your present model as a point of reference.

The Calculator referenced allows you to compute the scale size precisely.

You can use this Calculator to match any portion to practically any scale in inches and millimeters if you have the measurements of a full-size vessel or any section of it.

But I want to impart a piece of good information here. I want to answer who has the most collection of model planes as of now?

Shannon Airport in Ireland now features the world’s largest collection of model airplanes on permanent display. Michael Kelly, 67, of Farranshone, Limerick, has amassed a collection of over 1,500 diecast models for 50 years.

Thank you for reading to the end. Now it’s your turn to air your views.

“Only the things I love”

thediecastmodel.com is reader-supported. When you buy through links on the site, I earn an affiliate commission.

So, here are the things I love when taking care of my Diecast Models.

Cleaning the Models

The first we are going to talk about is cleaning the models.

Removing Dust

Air Brush – For me, this is the best since it not just removes dust but you can use it in painting/clear coating.
Air Duster – This is a good alternative to Airbrush
Normal Brush – If you are short on budget, you can use a normal brush. However, make sure that the brush has soft bristles because there are some hard brushes than can cause scratches. That’s why I recommended a good brush that can do the job properly.

Cleaning and Shining Hacks

Well, here are some of my cleaning hacks for removing scratches, oxidation, and so much more.

Removing Decal Adhesive – Use Goo Gone on those hard-to-remove decal adhesives. It works fast and works like charm!
Waxing and Polishing – Here is something a lot of people don’t know. Waxing protects the clear coat and paint while polishing shines the model. Instead of buying it separately, use a 2 in 1 to save money. Get this instead.
Beginner Wax – The wax I recommended earlier is good and provides the best results based on my experience. But a beginner might have a problem especially if they’re not good at applying wax. Solid wax reaching hard to reach surface can be hard to remove. You have two choices here. One is to use a qtips to reach those surfaces, another is to use a liquid wax I recommended.
Cleaning Wheels, Rubber, Plastic – Do not forget that rubber and plastic surface are quite different, especially in the cleaning process. Just wiping it down won’t do the job. That’s why I use Meguiar’s Vinyl and Rubber Cleaner and Conditioner. Works like charm!
Make the Wheels Shine! – Making our models look good won’t be complete without tiny details such as shiny wheels! Do not forget this because however small this is, the difference can be as big as night and day.
Remove Scratches Easily – Tiny scratches are not the end for your model. Here is a simple trick I’ve been using to make my models look scratch-free even without repainting. Use T-Cut.

Painting the Models

Painting Tools

Make sure when you paint models, have these ready.

Tape – A tape is important if you are painting a straight line. Furthermore, it will prevent your paint to scatter on other parts. I recommend Tamiya Tape since it is really made for models. Furthermore, they stick really well preventing paint splatters.
Brush (Beginner) – Find a good set of brushes to paint your models. Of course, you can opt for an airbrush but it’s quite expensive.
Airbrush (Intermediate/Expert) – This will yield a significantly better result than an ordinary brush because you can easily spray the paint evenly. I recommend this if you know what you’re doing.
Stand(Optional) – Stands are good because it can be hard to manually hold the models while painting. It is optional but in my opinion, the price is well worth it for the comfort it gives.
Drop Cloths – Drop Cloths will protect your surroundings from the paint.
Primer – The most common beginner mistake I see is painting models without any Primer. A primer will prevent imperfections such as bubbles or paint not sticking to your models. It is a small price to pay for quality results.
Clear Coat – A clear coat will protect the paint of your models. This will make the paint last longer. Also, it is the one responsible for making your models shine.

Paints

Of course, you can’t do painting properly without paint. So here are the ones I recommend.

Acrylic Paint – Good for beginners because it dries quickly. However, it doesn’t produce results as good as enamel paint.
Enamel Paint – Provides a good quality finish and longer-lasting paint. However, it takes longer to dry and requires expertise to use.

Model Maintenance

Model Storage

Simple Wood Cabinet – While it doesn’t let you display your models, wooden cabinets are good storage for these models. For one, they are not heat conductors which means that the temperature inside will remain constant and remain cool. Furthermore, they prevent light from reaching the models which can cause oxidation.
Clear Cabinet with Lock – If you want to display your models, then I recommend this. It closes so dust won’t easily get to your models. I also recommend you don’t put more than 1 model in each compartment since metals are good conductors of heat.

Model Photography

So you want to show off your models to others? Well, I got you covered.

Here is my beginner-friendly model photography tutorial that teaches everything from taking pictures to the editing process.

You will also see me doing hands-on photography in that tutorial.

Here is the link: How to Take Pictures of a Diecast Model or Model Kit | Helpful Illustrated and Video Guide

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