Top 3D Printed RC Plane Models in 2024

If you are looking for an endless fun-filled and exciting activity for this weekend, you’ve got to consider buying or building remote control (RC) vehicles from scratch. These are extremely easy to build and incredibly cool to own. All you have to do is choose from a design that speaks to you and get started on the project.

The best part is that you can 3D print your remote control plane as a DIY remote control plane project. To get you started, we have listed some of the most popular 3D printable RC plane designs you can choose according to your DIY skills. So, let’s put the 3D printed RC plane project on the runway, shall we?

Part 1: Why do 3D printed RC plane make the best DIY project?

Before we list out the best 3D print RC plane projects, let’s discuss why embarking on the DIY journey is highly recommended all over the world. Here are the major advantages of indulging in DIY projects.

1. Opportunity to work with new technology

3D printing is a relatively new technology that has also stepped into the hobbyists’ world. Not just for adults, it’s an excellent opportunity for kids to get acquainted with 3D printing and use it for their DIY projects. As 3D printing is an evolving technology, chances are the same kids will apply their hands-on knowledge across their professional careers.

2. Helps reduce stress and uplift mood

DIY projects, especially ones involving 3D printing, are extremely satisfying. This is because the sense of pleasure we get when working on DIY projects can lead to a feeling of accomplishment and happiness. After all, you will be working hard to get the DIY project up and running. The journey of the DIY project helps reduce stress and once you are at your destination, you’ll have something you show off and be proud of!

3. Introduction to new skills is fun

Building a DIY project is a learning experience. For example, when designing a 3D-printed RC plane, you will have to consider factors like weight, aerodynamics, strength, and placement of crucial elements on the plane chassis. This will open your mind to a whole new world of aerospace, which will certainly lead to major awakenings.

4. Makes you more active

Working on a DIY project makes you think. This is because there is no set pattern to follow in order to finish the project. You can develop your own plan and work through it to get the job done. When building a 3D-printed RC plane, you might even have to undergo physical activity while putting the plane together.

5. DIY has a blossoming community

This is so true. Even when you search for DIY projects online, you will come across several online forums that will have hundreds of hobbyists just like you. They often discuss different DIY projects online and you’ll have a lot to learn from their conversations. You might even get some tips on building a unique 3D-printed RC plane.

Part 2：Best 3D print RC plane DIY projects for you

Here are some of the best 3D print RC plane DIY projects you can start right away. Let’s learn about them in detail.

1. Piper J-3 Cub

You’ll love designing a Piper J-3 Cub as it is an excellent RC project to start learning about the basics of aircraft and even 3D printing. It is extremely easy to assemble and has very cool features. With a wingspan of 1068 mm, the plane is reported to be very lightweight and attain a payload capacity of 0.7kg! You can get all the design-related details on 3DLabPrint.

2. Northern Pike

If you don’t want to put much time into thought-processing and brainstorming, we have a project for you. Go for the Northern Pike RC plane as it is one of the most popular projects online and is very well documented. Designed by localfiend and available on Thingiverse, the Northern Pike delivers a First-Person View (FPV) when coupled with a built-in camera.

3. Flying Wing

Moving up the difficulty chart is this 3D printable RC plane which although looks simple, requires much thought when designing. You will have to think about how to make the RC plane fly because it can be quite challenging. This is why we highly recommend you refer to Thingiverse as it has all the details about the RC plane. There are 15 different 3D printable models for Flying Wing.

4. AirCombat

The first look at this RC plane makes you think of those combat-style airplanes we had back in the old days. These planes were extensively used in wars and proved to be quite successful. To 3D print AirCombat and make the RC aircraft fly, you will have to purchase several extra parts, the details for which are mentioned on Thingiverse.

5. Melusine

We are adding gliders to this list as well! Melusine is a 3D printable electric glider that boasts a twin tail and an FPV platform. Once assembled, it will weigh around 2.3kg and show off a massive 2320mm of wingspan. Essentially a pusher prop or PProp electric glider, Elusive can be coupled with FPV cameras, landing gears, and a steerable nose wheel. You can look for more design-related details on Cults.

6. FPV Plane

Add another FPV RC plane to your kitty with this 400mm wide plane that is easy to 3D print. You can check out its design on MyMiniFactory. Designed by Tinkercad, the plane is able to hold a camera and provide built-in controls. This FPV plane flies exceptionally well and has no button or top layers.

7. EL-39 Jet Plane

The EL-39 Jet Plane has the looks of a conventional fighter jet and, surprisingly enough, it also has a mini engine that provides the functionalities of a jet engine! It has an electric ducted fan that allows high flying speeds. EL-39 weighs around 7.5kg and can be designed using the details on Cults.

8. RC Shark

Designed for more experienced RC plane fliers, RC Shark can be a design to kill for. It has a very aggressive design and flying it can be an extremely fun experience since it has great maneuverability. RC Shark boasts a 990mm wingspan and is built for speed. You can download the design and details on Thingiverse.

9. PLA Moose

This one is for The Simpsons fans! PLA Moose is inspired by Yak-54 and Spruce Moose, as featured in one of The Simpsons episodes. With a wingspan of 1000mm and weight of around 1.6kg, this 3D printable RC plane design is available on Thingiverse and has a 25-part 3D printed frame.

10. Swift S1

If you are looking for a DIY remote control plane project that is popular and easy to build, you can go for Swift S1. Available on Printables, this 3D printable RC plane project will weigh about 2 kg and have a wingspan of 2000mm. The best part is that the design is quite durable and lightweight.

11. Windex

Why not design a single-seat aerobatic glider aircraft? This 3D printable RC plane DIY project is unique as it has a wingspan of 2500mm and weighs an atrocious 2.25kg! Designed by Roolaid and available on GrabCAD and Thingiverse, Windex is a fun-to-build RC plane that uses the goodness of balsa wood and carbon fiber vinyl to strengthen different parts used in the assembly.

12. SuperNova

Available on Thingiverse, SuperNova is essentially a 3D printable RC plane that has a modified design of RepRap Mendelmax, another successful RC plane. Supernova is a very cool-looking and high-soaring RC plane that you’d love to 3D print and assemble. It has been designed by Itek and has been successfully printed seven times in the past.

13. GASB One

This has to be one of the favorite (and most printed) RC planes because GASB One can be mastered by hobbyists from all skill levels. This is majorly due to the project's simple design. When put to printing, GASB One shows how easily it can be 3D printed and assembled. Designed by Carletto73 on Thingiverse, you can create your own GASB One RC plane for just $30.

14. SU-29

If you are a beginner to 3D printing RC planes, you can start with SU-29 as it is designed for easy printing and assembly. When building an SU-29, you get to learn the basics of an aircraft and the science behind its flight. The design for SU-29 is available on Cults and is designed by 3DBlackbox. The best part is that the SU-29 is not at all expensive.

15. Eclipson Model T

Fancy a remote-controlled seaplane? You have your wish fulfilled with an Eclipson Model T. This popular RC plane project will cost you around $20 and comes with 29 parts that can be 3D printed. Besides, you will have to get screws, motors, and other parts as well. This Eclipson design is available on Thingiverse and has over 107,000 downloads!

16. Pusher Propeller

A Pusher Propeller or a PProp is essentially an RC plane that delivers the best flight performance. This is because it is printed in vase mode and has an 1165mm wingspan which makes it go faster and higher without any problems. The design for Pusher Propeller is available on Printables and the easy-to-follow assembly videos are available online.

17. ASK14

You can even design a glider! Well, it’s an aircraft after all. Gliders have unique designs and can be 3D printed. With ASK14, you can design your own RC glider and load it with features like retractable wheels, air brakes, fastening systems, and more. The design for the ASK14 glider is available on Planeprint and its assembly guide can be viewed on YouTube.

18. Lukisegler

Let’s design a fast-flying glider aircraft, shall we? If you have prior RC flight experience, you will enjoy building this 3D-printed electric glider. This is because the project requires you to follow the plane’s specifications, assembly instructions, components, and more. If you want to undertake this challenging aircraft design, you’ll get plenty of help on Printables and C-Arts-Modelle.

19. Red Mini Wing

Looking for a smaller RC plane to design? We present the Red Mini Wing. But don’t go at its size, once 3D printed, this RC plane can catch high speeds and do incredible maneuvers to make you the star of the show. However, you’ve got to have some previous RC flight experience to make the most of its capabilities. You can download the details and design of Red Mini Wing on Thingiverse.

20. Micro SportCam

Indeed, the Micro SportCam is a small 3D printable RC plane. But, building and flying it can be a delightful experience. This is because its design is inspired by AirCam, essentially a kit aircraft. Moreover, the design files for Micro SportCam are available online on 3DAeroventures so you can quickly get onto building your own plane.

Hot FAQs about Ender 3 Print Speed

1. What is a 3D printed RC plane?

A 3D printed RC plane is a remote-controlled aircraft that has been produced using 3D printing technology. This means that most of its parts, including the wings, fuselage, and tail, are created by a 3D printer following a digital design file. 

2. How durable is a 3D printed RC plane?

The durability of a 3D printed RC plane largely depends on the materials used during the printing process. Most 3D printed RC planes are made from plastic materials such as PLA or ABS, which are quite sturdy and can withstand minor crashes. However, they may not be as robust as traditional RC planes made from balsa wood or carbon fiber.

3. What are the benefits of 3D printing an RC plane?

3D printing an RC plane allows for a high level of customization and experimentation. Design changes can be easily made in the digital file and then printed out, allowing for rapid prototyping and testing of new ideas. Additionally, 3D printing can be more cost-effective than traditional manufacturing methods, especially for complex or intricate designs.

Final thoughts

Indeed, we had more 3D-printable RC plane projects on our minds. But, the ones we have mentioned are some of the most exciting projects ever. However, the quality of 3D printers and printing materials, if ignored, can hamper the fun of building a remote control plane.

This is why we highly recommend using Creality’s 3D printers specifically for building DIY projects. If you are looking to purchase a 3D printer, this is the right time as Creality is running great offers and discounts on their online stores.

We hope this list of 3D remote control plane projects helped you find the right DIY project. Stay tuned for more interesting DIY projects in the future!