Airfix Standard Model Set A08014 Douglas C-47A/D Skytrain 1:72 model building kit

What it is

The Airfix Standard Model Set A08014 Douglas C-47A/D Skytrain is a plastic aircraft model kit in 1:72 scale. It’s the kind of build you pick when you want a hands-on project rather than a finished display item. Like most kits, it’s not ready-to-go: it requires construction and painting, and you’ll need to supply your own paints and glue.

This one sits at skill level 3 (on a 1 to 4 scale). That’s a useful clue: it’s aimed beyond absolute beginners, but it shouldn’t feel like a full-on expert-only build if you’ve already handled basic kits before. The kit includes sprues, decals and a paint guide, which is helpful for getting started with the scheme and markings.

Key takeaways (what matters most)

You’re looking at a model kit that is fairly substantial on paper: 145 parts and a finished size that’s listed as 273 mm long and 400 mm wide. That footprint is a reminder that this won’t be a small desk trinket—once built, it will likely take up real shelf or display space.

The other big thing to get straight is what’s not included. Paint and glue are not included, and there’s no mention of brushes either, so you’ll want to factor that into your total cost and prep your workspace accordingly. If you already have suitable modelling supplies, it’s a smoother experience. If you don’t, it can take a bit more time to round up what you need.

There’s also the “where it fits” question. With a level 3 rating and an 8+ age mark, it can work well for older kids building alongside an adult, or for adults who like a mid-range challenge. It may feel a little light if you’re specifically chasing the most detailed, high-advanced kits, but for many people it’s a sensible step that still keeps things manageable.

Where it shines

This kit makes sense if you enjoy the classic model-building flow: dry-fit your parts, clean up the mould lines as needed, assemble the airframe, and then finish with paint and decals. The included decals and paint guide are there to support that “from sprue to display” journey.

A practical micro-example: you could spend an evening working through the fuselage and wings, then come back later to detail and masking for the paint stages. If you like seeing progress week to week, the 145-part count suggests you’ll have plenty to do without it dragging on into endless work.

It also has good “family hobby” potential in the sense that it’s marked 8+. Obviously, supervision and guidance still matter for younger builders, but the level 3 indicator suggests the design is intended for people who can follow steps rather than only doing the simplest assembly.

Things to watch before buying

Don’t ignore the scope of what you’ll have to source yourself. Since paints and glue are not included, you’ll want to check you already have suitable supplies (and that you’re comfortable choosing them). Also, the kit requires painting, so if you were hoping for a quick, no-paint build, this may frustrate you.

Another small limitation: skill level 3 can be a comfort or a hurdle depending on your experience. If you’re brand new to modelling, it might feel fiddly. If you’re experienced, you may still enjoy it, but it might not scratch the itch for ultra-complex builds.

Finally, the listed finished dimensions (273 mm by 400 mm) are a good way to sanity-check your display space. If you’re short on shelf room, you may end up storing it later rather than displaying it.

Is it a good fit for you?

It’s a good fit if you’re after a traditional plastic aircraft build in 1:72 scale, you’re happy to paint and glue parts, and you’re comfortable with a skill level 3 project that includes decals plus a paint guide. It also suits you if you want something more involving than entry-level kits, but not necessarily the deepest end of advanced modelling.

It might not be a great match if you want a paint-free kit, you don’t have modelling glue or paints ready, or you don’t yet feel confident working through a 145-part assembly. You may want to skip it if your priority is a compact display piece, because the finished size suggests it will be noticeable.

Final verdict

If you’re building for a weekend project with room to learn and finish properly, Airfix’s A08014 is a solid “step-up” kit: enough parts and a clear painting path to make it rewarding, without being positioned as a top-end expert build. Just be realistic about the painting and glue requirements, and check you’ve got the space for a model that’s listed at 273 mm long and 400 mm wide.

Mini FAQ

What comes in the box?

The kit includes sprues, decals and a paint guide, but paints and glue are not included.

What skill level is it?

It’s listed as level 3, where 1 is for beginners and 4 is for more experienced model makers.

Do I need to paint it?

Yes. Construction and painting are required.

What scale is the model?

It’s in 1:72 scale.

How many parts are included?

The kit lists 145 parts.