“You see a photograph and you’d be hard pressed to say that’s a model… I can still get tricked.”
Many of us will have nostalgic memories of building Airfix model kits of planes as a child. In the
UK, the name 'Airfix' has become practically synonymous with plastic models of the iconic
British WW2 fighter plane, the Spitfire. However, Airfix (and their parent company Hornby
Hobbies) make model kits of a wide range of vehicles and aircraft, from sports cars to classic
and modern jets, trains, tanks and even warships. Their models range in complexity all the way
from starter kits to very complex designs.
Senior Designer Chris Joy tells us about the development of new kits and the detailed research
that is required to make Airfix models the most detailed and accurate representations of planes
and vehicles as possible. He explains the artistry involved in putting together the smallest
details on model planes, including making the outside look weathered and beaten, and
discusses how computer-aided design has helped models to evolve over the years.
We then speak to Head of Strategic Delivery Jamie Buchanan who tells us why he thinks people
are still so drawn to practical model kits in a world of technology. We also hear from Brian
Thompson, who heads up PTC’s CAD division. He explains why PTC’s CAD software CREO is
such a crucial part of allowing designers to capture the small details of aircraft which make the
Airfix models so accurate.
