10 Gifts that Will Inspire the Next Generation of Pilots

Encourage a love of flight in the children in your life with an aviation-themed gift. From plush pilot pals for toddlers to books, building sets, and RC aircraft for older kids and teens, there’s something here for every future aviator on your list.

Here are our suggestions for the top 10 gifts that will inspire the next generation of pilots all current items we offer right now:

1. HobbyZone Apprentice S 2 1.2m RTF Radio Control Airplane - Beginner-Friendly RC Plane with SAFE Technology for Safe and Fun Flying

For older kids and teens, this is one of the most exciting “next step” gifts: a real RC airplane experience with beginner-friendly features. SAFE Technology helps new pilots learn with more confidence, and the included battery + charger makes it easier to get flying sooner.

2. F-16 Falcon 6" Pullback Diecast Airplane (1 Pc. Assorted Styles)

Perfect for kids who want action plus aviation. The pullback feature adds instant fun, and the diecast construction helps it hold up to plenty of “missions” around the house.

3. Aviation Plush Barnstorming Aviator Bear 12"

Soft, huggable, and cockpit-ready. This aviator bear is a sweet way to introduce little ones to aviationand it’s also a fun “good luck charm” for older kids who love planes.

4. Peanuts Snoopy Takes Off! Imaginative Aviation Adventures for Kids

Aviation and Snoopy go together like wings and lift. This book is an easy win for younger readers and a fun way to spark “I want to fly!” conversations.

5. Peanuts Snoopy & Woodstock's First Flight: Engaging Story & DIY Paper Airplane Craft

This one pairs story time with hands-on fun. The paper airplane craft makes it feel like a mini STEM activityperfect for curious kids who like to build, test, and try again.

6. Wow Toyz Cuddle Zoo P-51 Mustang Plush Adventure

A plush plane that’s ready for bedtime, travel days, and playroom sorties. Great for little aviation fans who prefer cuddly to clicky (but still want something that looks like a real aircraft).

7. Snoopy 4" Rocket Nightlight: Illuminate Your Space with Peanuts Magic and Aviation Adventure

A fun room accessory that adds aviation/space flair without being “just another toy.” Great for kids who love rockets, planes, and anything that goes up.

8. Cobi Blocks USAF T-6 Texan II 192pc Creative Building Block Set

A great STEM-style gift that brings aviation into hands-on building time. Once it’s built, it’s also sturdy enough for play or displayso it keeps delivering value long after the wrapping paper is gone.

9. U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Flight Suit Kids T-Shirt by Aeroplane Apparel Co.

For kids who want to “dress the part,” this flight suit tee makes playtime instantly more immersiveespecially for airshow fans and future military aviators.

10. U.S. Navy Blue Angels Flight Suit Kids T-Shirt by Aeroplane Apparel Co.

Another awesome “wear your aviation obsession” optionperfect for kids who talk about jets, formations, and airshows like it’s their job.

Gift buying tips (so you nail it)

• Match the gift to the age: plush + storybooks for toddlers/young kids, building sets and pullback planes for elementary ages, RC aircraft for teens.
• Choose the “next step” gift: if they already love toy planes, go for a build kit; if they already build, upgrade to RC.
• Make it interactive: build the Cobi set together or have a “paper airplane fly-off” after reading Woodstock’s First Flight.

FAQ: Gifts for kids who love airplanes

What are the best aviation gifts for toddlers?

Soft, safe items are the best bet like the Aviation Plush Barnstorming Aviator Bear or the Cuddle Zoo P-51 Mustang Plush Plane. They’re comforting, travel-friendly, and easy to love.

What’s a good aviation gift for a 6–10 year old?

Pullback planes and hands-on books are great at this age. The F-16 Pullback Diecast adds action, while Woodstock’s First Flight adds a fun “build and fly” craft component.

What’s the best gift for a teen who wants to fly?

An RC airplane is hard to beat. The HobbyZone Apprentice S 2 is beginner-friendly and designed to help new RC pilots build skills more safely.

Are building sets like Cobi good for kids?

Yes building sets help kids practice patience, following directions, and spatial reasoning. The Cobi USAF T-6 Texan II set is a fun aviation-themed build that also looks great once completed.

What’s a small “extra” aviation gift that still feels special?

Books and room accessories are great add-ons. The Snoopy Rocket Nightlight is a fun surprise that turns into part of their everyday space.

Takeaway

The best aviation gifts don’t just look cool they invite kids to imagine, build, learn, and play like real pilots. Whether you choose a first plush “copilot,” a storybook adventure, a build set, or a full RC airplane experience, you’re feeding a lifelong love of flight.