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22 Best Remote Control Airplanes for Older Kids in 2024

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Are you having a tough time finding RC airplanes for your kids? We understand how difficult it can be due to how many different options are available, which is why we’ve taken care of the hard part for you.

We have researched and reviewed what the best remote control planes have to offer. All you need to do is read through the options below and pick the one that stands out to you the most.

A buyers guide section is also available at the end that provides you with even more information to help you make the best decision possible.

Our List of the Top RC Planes for Kids & Teens

1

Top Race 4 Channel Remote Control Airplane

Summary

This foam plane is a 4 channel (working throttle, rudder, elevator and aileron) remote control airplane features steerable tail wheel, propeller saving technology (with 3 spare propellers), a 3.7 360mAh battery6, and 3 flying levels (easy, medium and hard). This plane can fly in loops and spiral upside down.

This plane is 14 inches long with a 20 inch wingspan.

Positives
  • The built in gyro feature keeps planes from flying straight
  • The stunts you can do with this plane are fun
  • User friendly controls
Negatives
  • Some users find that the remote loses connection with the plane and the plane just flies out of sight
What age is this for?

This plane is recommended for children 14 years old and older, but several parents purchased it for younger kids.

What makes this stand out?

This plane is sturdy, well made and comes ready to fly.

2

Volantex P51 Mustang 4-Channel RC Airplane

Summary

This Remote controlled P51 Mustang is a model airplane that is easy to fly. You simply press one button and then use the stick to control it. This plane is capable of aerobatic flying and comes equipped with a Xpilot stabilization system.

This plane has 3 flight levels, beginner with assist, intermediate with assist, and expert with manual control. The transmitter is 2.4Ghz and can control the plane up to 656 feet from the transmitter. It has a propeller saver design and anti-interface capability. The plane uses 2 Lithium metal batteries and flies for about 20 minutes. It also comes with a USB charging cable.

Positives
  • This plane can do tricks
  • The stabilizer helps keep the plane stable in flight
  • This plane is easy to control
Negatives
  • Some users say this planes breaks easily
What age is this recommended for?

The P51 Mustang is recommended for children 14 years and older

Why does this stand out?

This plane comes ready to fly and is extremely easy to get in the air and control it once it is in flight.

3

Funtech RC 3 Channel Airplane

Summary

This ready to fly Styrofoam airplane features a 6 axis gyro 3 channel remote control (elevator, rudder, throttle) and 3 operating modes (beginner, Midd and expert). It comes with a 2.4 Ghz remote controller, which controls the plane up to 320 feet, a USB charger cable, and spare propeller. It uses a 3.7V 180mAh LiPo battery and 4AA batteries for the transmitter.

This plane has a 15.7 inch wingspan and is 12.2 inches long and 4.1 inches high. It flies for between 12 and 18 minutes per charge and has a charge time of 20 minutes.

Positives
  • Reasonably priced for a hobby plane of this size
  • Lightweight and easy to carry
  • Easy to steer when flying
Negatives
  • Many users feel this plane lacks durability
What age is this recommended for?

This plane is recommended for children ages 14 years and up

What makes this stand out?

This plane is easy for beginners to learn to fly making it a good choice for those just becoming interested in hobby remote control plane flying.

4

Top Race 3 Channel Remote Control Airplane

Summary

This Styrofoam ready to fly remote control airplane is a great beginner plane for kids and adults. This plane features propeller saver technology, 3 levels of flying (easy, medium and hard), and 2.4 Ghz radio controller that can guide the plane from up to 320 feet away. The plane flies for about 12 minutes on a 60 minute charge.

The propeller saver technology is designed to snap off if the plane hits obstacles saving damage to the rest of the plane. 3 spare propellers come with the plane. The plane itself is 14 inches long and has a 14 inch wingspan. It uses a 3.7V 180mAh battery (2 of them) and the remote takes 4A batteries.

Positives
  • The propeller saver technology is a great help in keeping this plane from becoming damaged
  • This plane is durable despite being made from Styrofoam
  • This plane is good for both beginner and experienced fliers.
Negatives
  • In some cases the remote control seems to lose contact with the plane leaving it to fly off on its own
What age is this recommended for?

This plane is recommended for children ages 8 and up

What makes this stand out?

The propeller saver combined with the ease of flying this plane makes it a good starter plane to those new to the hobby.

5

Crazepony RC Airplane

Product Currently Out Of Stock!

Summary

The Crazepony RC Airplane has been made using lightweight materials that ensure the plane can soar in the air and be easily maneuvered. They’ve also implemented EPP foam materials which are strong and keep the plane durable.

We liked how they’ve included instructions for assembly that are easy to follow. This can make for some great family time as you and your kids can build it together.After being fully charged for 40 minutes, this RC plane enables kids to play with it for up to 15 continuous minutes.

The remote control comes with a 2.4Ghz frequency and 2 channels. We were also impressed with how there’s a 3-axis gyroscope system as it makes the plane more stable and easier to fly. As a result, it’s great for beginners.

Pros
  • 3-axis gyro system for stability
  • Lightweight & durable materials
  • Easy assembly
Cons
  • Some were expecting more precise controls
What age is this recommended for?

13 years old and over

What makes this stand out?

With the lightweight materials and 3-axis gyro system, children who are beginners are able to fly this one without any hassle.

6

VOLANTEXRC 3CH Airplane

Summary

This Remote Control Airplane has a fantastic 6-axis gyro system built-in which works effectively to provide kids with a lot of stability while flying. Therefore, it’s an excellent option for beginners.

We liked how this one comes assembled in the box as it allows you to have it up and running in no time. When it has been fully charged, the plane can last for up to 20 minutes. The EPP materials that have been used are of a high-quality.

They provide the plane with a lightweight feel which makes it fun to fly. The materials are also strong to ensure it remains durable. The remote that’s included operates on a 2.4Ghz frequency and lets kids control the plane from up to 200 meters away.

Pros
  • 6-axis gyro system for stability
  • Lightweight & durable materials
  • 200 meter range
Cons
  • People have been loving this one!
What age is this recommended for?

14 years old and over

What makes this stand out?

Kids have been loving how much control they’re provided with while flying this plane, which is due to the fantastic 6-axis gyro system.

7

Cobra E-Glider

Summary

The Cobra RC E-Glider has been constructed using EPP foam materials which are incredibly strong. These materials work effectively to provide the plane with a lot of durability to last your child for years.

Furthermore, these materials ensure that kids are able to fly the plane with a lot of smoothness. Even if they’re flying in windy conditions, the plane manages to remain stable for a more fun experience.

You can choose to launch the plane in a runway style or launch it by hand. Kids have a blast using both methods! The remote that’s included has a 2.4Ghz frequency and allows children to be standing up t 100 meters away.

Pros
  • Durable EPP foam materials
  • Stable flying
  • Fun launch methods
Cons
  • People don’t have anything bad to say about this one
What age is this recommended for?

10 years old and over

What makes this stand out?

Kids have been loving how they can either launch this plane by hand and throwing it into the air, or by making it build up momentum like a real plane does on the runway.

8

Basic Park Sport Flyer

Product Currently Out Of Stock!

Summary

The Basic RC Park Flyer Sport Airplane has been fitted with fantastic shock-absorbing features which provide it with a lot of durability to last you child for years. We also liked how they’ve used Z-foam materials for the construction.

These materials are lightweight and ensure that kids are able to fly the plane smoothly in the air. In addition to this, there’s SAFE technology available which works to automatically level the plane to provide beginners with more control.

We were also impressed with how there are leading-edge slats available. They provide children with the ability to perform better landings and takeoffs. This is another great feature that beginners have been appreciating.

Pros
  • SAFE technology for control
  • Great for beginners
  • Shock-absorbing features
Cons
  • Some find the flaps don’t work as well as they were hoping
What age is this recommended for?

14 years old and over

What makes this stand out?

This plane is incredibly durable due to the shock-absorbing features. It’s also great for beginners as a result of the easy takeoff and landing feature, as well as the SAFE technology for more control.

9

Basic RC Airplane with SAFE

Product Currently Out Of Stock!

Summary

This Basic RC Airplane has been fitted with SAFE technology which is a fantastic feature for beginners. The technology works effectively to provide kids with a lot of stability which makes it a lot easier for them to learn how to fly.

In addition to this, there’s a panic recovery mode available too. If your child is worried that they’re losing control of the plane, all they need to do is press a button and the plane will recover itself.

The construction has also been made using materials that are lightweight and durable. As a result, you can expect it to last your child for a while. The lightweight materials are excellent for providing the plane with more flexibility and the ability to fly faster as well.

Pros
  • Panic recovery feature available
  • SAFE technology built-in
  • Lightweight & durable materials
Cons
  • Smaller than some were expecting
What age is this recommended for?

14 years of age and up

What makes this stand out?

This is an awesome RC plane for beginners as a result of the SAFE technology and panic recovery features that are available.

10

Tempest 600 EP RTF Aircraft

Summary

The RC Tempest 600 EP RTF Aircraft features pilot assist stability software which is fantastic for beginners. This provides them with varying levels of assistance when learning how to fly. The full assist mode is best for complete beginners.

When your little one gains more experience, they can move onto the partial assist mode. Once they’re even more confident, the no assist mode will let them fly solo. We also liked how the materials that have been used are EPP foam.

This foam is lightweight to ensure that kids are able to control the plane with precision. This also provides the plane with a lot of durability to ensure that it lasts your child for years to come.

Pros
  • Assistance modes available
  • EPP foam materials
  • Great for beginners
Cons
  • People don’t have anything bad to say about this one so far
What age is this recommended for?

15 years old and up

What makes this stand out?

The assistance modes allow beginners to improve their skills and work their way up until they’re able to fly the plane completely on their own. It’s an incredibly rewarding experience that kids have been loving.

11

Predator Airplane

Summary

The RC Predator Airplane has been fitted with a 3-axis gyro system that provides children with a lot of stability to make it easier for them to control. As a result, it’s a fantastic option for beginners.

We were also impressed with how they’ve used EPP foam materials to construct this one. This works effectively to provide the plane with a lot of durability to ensure that your child can play with it for years to come.

These materials are also lightweight, which makes the controls while flying more precise. In addition to this, there’s a wider wingspan available which is another great feature that makes it easier for beginners to control.

Pros
  • Wide wingspan for easier control
  • 3-axis gyro system for stability
  • Durable & lightweight materials
Cons
  • Some find the battery is difficult to fit
What age is this recommended for?

12 years old and over

What makes this stand out?

This is a great option for beginners as a result of the wider wingspan and 3-axis gyro system. Kids are provided with a lot of control to enjoy flying the plane for a long time ahead.

12

Fixed Wing Drone Plane

Product Currently Out Of Stock!

Summary

This RC Fixed Wing Drone Plane has been made with a fantastic design which kids have been loving. We also liked how there are 3 motors available that provide the plane with a lot of power.

Kids are able to have fun experimenting with this power which keeps them entertained for hours while being outdoors. They’ve implemented high-quality EPP foam materials to construct this one.

The materials work effectively to provide the plane with a lot of durability. They also keep the plane lightweight, which makes the controls more responsive. Kids can be standing up to 200 meters away from the plane and still have total control.

Pros
  • Durable & lightweight materials
  • 3 motors for plenty of power
  • 200 meter range
Cons
  • Instructions could be better
What age is this recommended for?

12 years old and over

What makes this stand out?

The 3 motors that have been fitted into this RC plane ensure that kids are provided with plenty of power to have fun with outdoors.

13

VOLANTEXRC Airplane

Summary

The Volantex RC Airplane has been fitted with an excellent 6-axis gyro system. It works effectively to provide the plane with a lot of stability, which is a fantastic option for beginners.

Parents have been liking how it comes in a ready to fly state which means that you can have it ready to go in no time for your little one. We liked how they’ve used EPP foam materials to construct this one.

It provides the plane with a lot of durability to ensure that it lasts your child for years. The materials is also lightweight which is awesome for making the plane easier to control while it’s in the air.

Pros
  • 6-axis gyro system for stability
  • Durable & lightweight materials
  • Ready to fly out of the box!
Cons
  • Smaller than some were expecting
What age is this recommended for?

14 years of age and up

What makes this stand out?

This is a great option for beginners as it lets them fly the plane with a lot of stability due to the 6-axis gyro system. The lightweight materials also provide your little one with responsive control too.

14

GoolRC Cessna RC Plane

Summary

The Gool RC Drone Plane has been made to look like the Cessna-182 plane, which provides it with a realistic appearance that kids have been loving. It comes with 3 motors which ensure that kids have a lot of power to play with.

While there’s a lot of power available, we were also impressed with how kids have a lot of control too. As a result, it’s a fantastic option for beginners who can then improve their skills and fly the plane at faster speeds later down the line.

They’ve used high-quality EPP materials to construct this plane which makes it incredibly durable. It’s also lightweight which gives the plane a flexible quality that’s awesome for enabling kids to have precise control over it while it’s in the air.

Pros
  • Lightweight & durable materials
  • Great for beginners
  • Lots of power available
Cons
  • Some parts are flimsier than some were hoping
What age is this recommended for?

14 years of age and older

What makes this stand out?

Kids are provided with plenty of power while flying this RC plane, yet they’re also able to have a lot of control due to the lightweight design.

15

Top Race F22 Fighter Jet

Summary

This Top Race F22 Fighter Jet can last for 12 minutes of continuous play after being fully charged for 40 minutes. It comes with an awesome green camouflage design as well that kids have been loving.

While it’s in the air, children are provided with the freedom to fly it up, down, left, right, backwards, and forwards. As a result, you can be sure that they’ll be engaged with it for a long time, which encourages outdoor play.

We liked how the remote features 4 channels and works with a 2.4Ghz frequency. This is because it allows multiple RC planes to be flow at the same time, which provides kids with a great opportunity to play with others and develop their socials skills.

Pros
  • Multiple planes can be flown simultaneously
  • Awesome camouflage design
  • Easy to fly
Cons
  • A little more delicate than some were expecting
What age is this recommended for?

11 years old and over

What makes this stand out?

Children have been loving how they’re able to fly this plane with others and play in small groups together outdoors. It can be an effective way to improve their social skills.

16

RTF-Red Plane

Summary

This ready-to-fly RC airplane has been made with strong EPO materials that provide it with a lot of durability to ensure that it lasts your child for years to come. We liked how it’s also easy to control.

As a result, it’s an excellent option for beginners as it enables them to fly the plane with a lot of stability. The propellers can be folded which is a unique feature that allows the plane to glide through the air.

Kids also like how they’re able to use the remote to control the plane to move in all directions. While using the remote, your little one’s motor skills and hand-eye coordination are provided with a great opportunity to develop.

Pros
  • Fun glide mode available
  • Durable EPO materials
  • Develops motor skills & coordination
Cons
  • Propellers don’t work as well as some were hoping
What age is this recommended for?

13  years of age and over

What makes this stand out?

The glide mode is a feature that kids have been having a blast with. You can also be sure that they’ll be able to have fun with this plane for years due to the durable EPO materials.

17

KKmoonRC Airplane

Product Currently Out Of Stock!

Summary

The KKmoon RC Airplane has been made using EPP foam materials which provides the plane with a lot of flexibility. This makes it easier for kids to fly as the controls feel more precise, which makes it a great option for beginners.

These materials are also strong, which ensures that the plane remains durable for years to come. The remote that’s available allows kids to be standing up to 200 meters away and still have total control.

There are also 3 motors built-in which allow children to fly the plane at faster speeds and have a blast. This is a great opportunity that allows beginners to challenge themselves more and improve their flying skills.

Pros
  • Fast speeds available
  • Flexible & durable materials
  • Great for beginners
Cons
  • Heavier than some were expecting
What age is this recommended for?

12 years old and over

What makes this stand out?

We liked how this one enables beginners to learn how to fly, while also providing them with the room to challenge themselves more and fly at faster speeds.

18

Daron Air Force One Radio Control Plane

Product Currently Out Of Stock!

Summary

The Daron Air Force One RC Plane comes with some fantastic light and sound effects that kids have been loving. When kids activate these effects, their auditory and visual learning senses are able to develop well.

These light and sound effects are also great for making the experience more exciting. As a result, your son or daughter may feel encouraged to play with more imagination, which is excellent for their creative thinking skills.

While they use the remote to control this plane toy, your little one is provided with a fantastic opportunity to develop their motor skills and hand-eye coordination. They have the freedom to control the plane toy to move in different directions to keep themselves entertained for a while.

Pros
Cons
  • Can be prone to overheating
What age is this recommended for?

13 years old and up

What makes this stand out?

Kids have been having a lot of fun with this one due to the light and sound effects. They make the toy more fun to play with and help them to play and think with more imagination.

19

E-flite UMX Timber RC Airplane

Summary

This E-flite UMX Timber RC Airplane comes in a smaller size which makes it super easy to fly anywhere that kids like – which includes indoors and outdoor areas. The smaller size provides the plane with more flexibility while it’s in the air.

We were also impressed with how it features LED lights. This allows kids to play with it at night, which is a different and exciting experience. In addition to this, there are beacons and wing-tip strobes which make it look like a real plane.

They’ve fitted larger flaps to ensure that the plane can take off and land in smaller spaces which makes it great for using indoors. Furthermore, they have implemented SAFE technology which works effectively to keep the plane stable in the air, which is great for beginners.

Pros
  • SAFE technology
  • LED lights
  • Smaller size for indoor & outdoor use
Cons
  • Landing gear isn’t as great as some were expecting
What age is this recommended for?

14 years old and over

What makes this stand out?

The smaller size of this plane allows kids to use it both indoors and outdoors. They’ve also been liking the SAFE technology as it makes the plane easier to fly at the start.

20

DeerC DE51 Remote Control Helicopter

Summary

The DE51 helicopter is a mostly metal helicopter that comes with 2 different shells, a 2Ghz remote, gyroscope technology, altitude hold function, non jamming function and a mAh 3.7mAh li-poly modular battery and USB cable and an LED light for flying in low light conditions. This helicopter also has an altitude hold function, which allows it to hold hovering heights.

This helicopter with it’s two batteries has a flying time of about 20 minutes and takes about 60 minutes to charge. The remote control can control the helicopter from a distance of 50 meters. The remote needs 3AA batteries.

Positives
  • This helicopter is easy to set up and easy to use
  • Auto take off and land
  • Very affordable
Negatives
  • This helicopter has problems with charging the battery
What age is this for?

This helicopter is suited for children age 11 and older

What makes this stand out?

One of the great things about this helicopter is that it comes with 2 different shells giving users a choice of what they want their helicopter to look like. 

21

Electric RC Warbird

Product Currently Out Of Stock!

Summary

This Electric RC Warbird plane comes with a safe select flight protection feature which is awesome for beginners. It’s an excellent feature that provides kids with a lot of stability while flying.

There’s also an automatic self-leveling feature available too which ensures children have even more stability. We were also impressed with how they’ve made this plane look realistic due to the cockpit design and colors.

In addition to this, they’ve fitted a system that allows the airplane to takeoff and land in smaller areas which provides kids with the freedom to play both indoors and outdoors. Parents have also been liking how this one is super easy to assemble too.

Pros
  • Easy assembly
  • Stable flight features
  • Can be used indoors & outdoors
Cons
  • Distance isn’t as great as some were hoping
What age is this recommended for?

15 years old and over

What makes this stand out?

This is a great choice for children who are beginners to flying these kinds of toys due to how stable it manages to stay in the air. The assembly is also convenient to ensure it’s ready to be played with in no time.

22

Top Race C185 Ready to Fly RC Airplane

Product Currently Out Of Stock!

Summary

This Top Race RC Airplane comes ready-to-fly which means you can take it out of the box and let your little one start flying it in no time. It takes around 20 minutes to charge which provides kids with 12 minutes of playing time.

We were impressed with how they’ve implemented an auto stable technology feature as it provides the plane with a lot of stability. Therefore, it’s a fantastic option that allows kids who are beginners to keep the plane stable in the air.

Furthermore, they’ve used high-quality materials that are strong and resistant to impact from the wind. This allows kids to fly the plane in harsher weather conditions without any issues. The materials also ensure that it lasts your child for years to come.

Pros
  • Auto stable tech built-in
  • Durable materials
  • Ready-to-fly
Cons
  • Controls are a little more sensitive than some were anticipating
What age is this recommended for?

14 years old and over

What makes this stand out?

The materials used on this RC plane are durable and make the plane resistant to being thrown off balance by the wind.

Buyers Guide to The Best RC Airplanes for Kids

Now that you have a better understanding of what some of the top RC airplanes for kids have to offer, you can begin to narrow down your search to finding the one that you think would be best for your child.

If you’re still not feeling 100% certain on making a final decision, don’t worry. We’ve created this buyers guide section to provide you with some more information that will prove to be useful.

Popular Types

After reading through this review, and looking for RC airplanes for yourself, you will have noticed that there are a number of different options available. If you were interested to learn more about what makes these types of planes different from one another, take a look at the section below.

Jet Planes

We’ve included some RC jet planes in this review because they have a fun design that kids have been loving. They’ve been made to look like real jets, which can make the playing experience more exciting for kids.

Ready to Fly (RTF)

The ready-to-fly planes that have been mentioned throughout this post are excellent options if you’re looking for something that’s more convenient. These ones comes already assembled so that all you need to do is charge it, and you’re good to go.

Model Airplanes

There are model airplanes available that are the opposite to the ready-to-fly ones. These options involves using the instructions and pieces to build it, which takes more time.

However, some parents enjoy this process as it can make for some great bonding time between them and their children.

Electric Powered

Most of the radio controlled planes in this review are electrically powered. This is because they are made for kids, which means that they are a little lower in power to ensure that they remain manageable.

Children can still have a lot of fun flying them at fast speeds, but they aren’t as powerful as the gas powered ones.

Gas Powered

When it comes to the gas powered toys and specifically RC planes, we recommend that you save them for children who are older or who have an advanced experience level with flying these kinds of toys.

This is because they tend to be more powerful and require more experienced users to handle them properly.

Top Brands

If you are interested to learn a little about what makes the top brands the best in the business when it comes to RC airplanes, the section below is for you.

Crazepony

Crazepony is a fantastic brand that makes technological and innovative drones for children, that include RC planes, and kids have been loving them. They’re implemented technology that enables the planes to be flown in smaller spaces, which makes them great for indoor and outdoor use.

VolantexRC

VolantexRC is a Chinese brand that originally focused on manufacturing RC boats and airplanes. Therefore, their remote control airplanes are of a high standard. However, they’ve recently been moving into UAV’s due to how much great experience they’ve gained making model airplanes.

Airplane Kits

There is a range of RC airplane kits available online that can be a lot of fun for you and your child to be involved in something together. These kits come with a set of instructions and all the pieces you need to make your own RC airplane.

This can be an incredibly fun and rewarding process for your child. Not to mention, it provides you with some quality time with each other too.

Final Thoughts on Popular Radio Controlled Airplanes

So, that concludes our review on the top RC aircraft toys that are available. We’ve included some cheap RC planes as well as the higher end options to provide you with a broader picture of what’s available.

Hopefully, we’ve provided you with everything you need to go ahead and feel confident about making a final buying decision!

About Sheryl Jackson

Sheryl is a wife, mother and grandmother who has 3 adult children, many grandchildren and a large family with many nieces and nephews. Over the decades Sheryl has purchased countless toys and gifts for her children, grandchildren, foster children, nieces and nephews. Sheryl has an M.A. in communications and creative writing and loves using her experience as a parent and grandparent to share her picks of the best toys and gift ideas for children, teenagers and young adults.

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