The History Of The Model Airplane

Of all of the hobby models, model airplanes are among the most popular sets to put together. The idea behind the model airplane’s popularity is relatively simple; you start with a set of pieces and end up with a miniature version of your favorite modern-day plan. From transport, military, and even spaceship vessels, collections of model airplanes have something for everyone. 

While model airplane kits have advanced in building designs throughout the decades, the most exciting part of their history comes from when modern-day materials weren’t even invented yet. 

Ancient Beginnings

Believe it or not, the first model aircraft was unearthed in 1898 during an Egyptian excavation. As archaeologists excavated the Saqqara burial grounds, they found a model aircraft that dates back to an estimated 200 BC. 

This model airplane measures six inches long has wings, along with what today is a fuselage. The Egyptians were an advanced ancient civilization who engineered pyramids, among other astonishing feats. It’s not hard to imagine that they conceptualized the ideas of flight. 

Taking Flight

As Orville and Wilbur Wright finally took dreams of flight into reality, airplanes’ passion was ignited in modern society. Children became fixated on the possibilities of flying, giving way to smaller-scaled versions of the planes used in play. However, the Wright brother’s success didn’t only captivate children; it also caught the attention of the U.S. military, which used models of their airplanes to engineer battle-ready aircraft.

War Games

Military engineers made great strides in airforce development using model airplanes. Designing battle aircraft was even more important as the U.S. faced the perils of two World Wars. The need for reconnaissance and bomber planes increased, and engineers used models to develop planes with multiple propellers, larger capacities, and faster speeds. 

A little known fact is that the Stealth originated from a model. The popularity of model airplane building as a hobby was cemented during this time as everyone wanted to create the next military plane.

Modern Options For Model Airplanes

Models of aircraft have advanced over the decades to include a host of products designed for all age groups. Among the various types of model sets on the market, a time tested brand stands out for it’s quality materials and diversity in set options. COBI has continued to produce world renowned model airplane sets in addition to a variety of other hobby kits. 

The hobby of building model airplanes will continue to be a major part of our human story. With COBI, you can create models that bring your story to life.