10 Best Flying Toys Reviewed & Rated in 2024
Selina Marie
Ask a child “If you could have any superpower what would it be?” Many will answer with “The power to fly!” Children often search the sky for things in flight. They often point out birds, planes, and helicopters. Their imaginations soar through the sky with the object they’re tracking. If your child has a fascination with flying, you can help fuel their love of flight by purchasing them toys that fly. Toys that are designed with the ability to fly could foster a love of physics, engineering, and technology in your child. Their hand-eye coordination, tracking, and thinking skills will improve as they get their toy off the ground and into the air. We created a list of the 10 best flying toys for kids. Many will help them explore the world around them but they all will bring a smile to your child’s face.
In a Hurry? The test winner after 81 hrs of research
Comes with six rockets
Includes three launchers
Extra launchers can be purchased separately
Bright LED aesthetics
10 Best Flying Toys Reviewed
1. The Amazing Slingshot LED Helicopters
Comes with six rockets
Includes three launchers
Extra launchers can be purchased separately
Bright LED aesthetics
This toy is more fragile than others on this list
The six pack set, advertised As seen on TV, is a great idea to throw in a goody bag or use as a fun party activity. Children can create amazing light shows that can be seen up to half a mile away. The rockets can be launched up to 120 feet in the air, but they have the capability to fly like a copter, providing dual fun and added aesthetics.
Read moreDesign
There is one more reason to love this set, in addition to its number of pieces this set is reasonably priced so you can feel good about your purchase. Have peace of mind in knowing that you invested very little in the grand scheme and are creating long lasting memories for your little one to embark on with their friends.
Entertainment Value
Children are incredibly enthusiastic, and this can lead to overzealousness which can cause tantrums and arguments. To avoid those unpleasant confrontations, it's important to teach children early on about the importance of sharing and waiting their turn. Due to the number of rockets included with this set, it encourages socialization and promotes children to take turns with one another, in turn improving their patience.
Value
The Amazing Slingshot LED Helicopters fall well below our guide’s average. This flying toy is one of the least expensive options on the list and comes with several ‘copters so kids can play together at the same time.
2. LED Foam Finger Rockets 6 Pack
Product made without the use of mercury and other harsh metals
Glows in the dark
Features LED light display
Multiple adjustable speeds
The batteries are not replaceable, when they run out of power you will have to replace the whole toy
US Sense has modernized the slingshot with their LED foam finger rockets. Each slingshot is composed of foam, a high-quality rubber band, and an LED light. Children ages 5 and up can easily shoot the toy. All they have to do is put their finger in the rubber band, pull back on the foam fin, and let go when they’re ready to launch.
Read moreDesign
Whether your child is launching their slingshot indoors or outdoors, the foam exterior will help it survive wherever it lands. The LED lights make it possible for your little ones to spot their slingshots as well as launch them in the dark. When purchasing you can choose between a six- or 21-pack of slingshots.
Entertainment Value
If you want to save the battery life for the LED lights, the slingshot is designed with a small button that will allow you to turn the lights off and on. Your child will increase their hand-eye coordination, fine-motor skills, tracking, and spatial awareness as they play with their slingshot. Being a STEM toy, every time your child launches it, they will learn science, technology, engineering, and math concepts. They will get plenty of exercises as they work to retrieve their slingshot after every launch.
Value
The LED Foam Finger Rockets 6 Pack come in under our median price point. These rockets are easy to use and made from light material, but the foam isn’t likely to withstand a pet attack or too much rough play. Luckily there are 6 in each package in case any go missing or get damaged!
3. Holy Stone FPV RC Drone
Comes with a built in camera
Long lasting battery
VR Headset compatible video feed
Low battery alarm
IOS and Android compatible
Requires a very lengthy amount of time to fully charge, roughly around 120 minutes
This high tech copter has so many mind-blowing features there’s so much to love about it! There are LED navigation lights to help you keep track of the copter at night. It has the option to be controlled with using a transmitter or your mobile device, depending upon personal preference. There is a low battery alarm that lets you know it’s almost time to go back on the charger for refueling, so to speak.
Read moreDesign
Flight time is around 10 minutes and with this copter comes a built-in camera that allows you to take incredible images and video while in flight, to get a first-hand view of what it would be like if we could actually fly. With several adjustable speeds, it's easy for anyone to fly, no matter what skill level your child is. The copter holds in mid-air so you can get a thorough view of everything below, even if you have lost track of the controller. To ensure safety and a long lifespan, the copter comes with an emergency stop feature to prevent damage to the blades or craft.
Entertainment Value
Designed for ages fourteen and up this quadcopter is a perfect solution for encouraging your children to want to spend time as a family. This toy can be utilized to help create long-lasting memories and explore some breathtaking angles of the world as a whole family.
Value
The Holy Stone FPV Drone is the most expensive item on our list. This is a great investment if you’re looking for a STEM toy or have a child that’s already shown significant interest in drone toys. Unlike many of these products, this flying toy is highly durable.
4. Barbie Star Light Galaxy Doll with Cat
Beautifully styled Barbie
Cat really flies
Great for imaginative play
More durable option than some flying toys
Control cat’s flight path with Barbie’s arms
The fans are pretty noisy when the cat is in flight
Ready to join Barbie in out of this world adventures? The Barbie Star Light Galaxy Doll is an intergalactic gal ready to explore new frontiers. When you’re ready for lift off just hook up Barbie’s flying feline friend and prepare to launch! Visit new planets, make contact with aliens: the only limit is your imagination.
Read moreDesign
Barbie comes styled for her space odyssey in a signature pink jumpsuit and holographic vest. Knee high silver boots, a utility belt, and silver streaks in her hair complete her extraordinary aesthetic. Her cat has two blades attached and wears a little astronaut’s helmet. Push the button on the back of Barbie’s leg to launch!
Entertainment Value
Kids love imaginative play. With such curious little minds and thin filters, they’re bursting with ideas about adventure. Star Light Barbie is a great companion, especially for little ones interested in space! When you push the button on her leg, her cat really flies, adding a cool feature to this that will keep kids entertained for hours.
Value
This Barbie sits just below the median price of our guide. Since she’s available from multiple sellers, prices may vary but none of them exceed our average. She’s a more durable option than some of these flying toys and has the added benefit of being useful and enjoyable even if the flying function fails.
5. Active Life Frisbees 2 Pack
Unique design created even for the littlest hands
Lighter than standard Frisbees
Play catch and throw with confidence
Pack includes two flying rings, orange and green
Encourages gross motor skill development
Small in diameter
Made from hard plastic
Perfect for young children, easy to catch and throw. The unique designs of these flying rings keep them flying straight and for a longer hang time. They are lighter than a standard Frisbees making them easier to catch.
Read moreDesign
The patch features two flying rings, one is orange and the other is green. Finally get the kids to put down the electronic devices and join in some fun outside with these flyers. They are best suited for children three years old to 12 years old.
Entertainment Value
Playing outside is a great way to exercise and develop motor skills. Playing with these flying toys is a great way to get their arms, legs, and hands working together are in an awesome game of catch. Throwing the flying ring encourages many motor development skills.
Value
The Activ Flyer is beneath the average price of our guide. This two-pack includes colorful discs that can provide hours of outdoor fun. The design is simple but effective and it’s a classic flying toy for families that want to get a little exercise together.
6. Predator Mini RC Helicopter Drone
Low-interference remote controller to prevent loss of control while in flight
Ultra responsive motors for quick reaction time and six-axis gyro system for accurate aerials
50 meter wind resistant control range allows it to not be blown away
Quiet engine for stealth movements
Easy button manipulation for quick changes in direction
Propeller blades come off easily
Does not come with built-in camera or video system
The notion of being a pilot can seem like an enthralling one. While that career path comes with a great deal of freedom and adventure, it's also challenging work and requires a deep sense of discipline and understanding of certain scientific concepts.
Read moreDesign
This mini-copter is a great tool and toy for introducing adolescence, ages fourteen and up, to these complex concepts. It has the capability to fly at a distance of fifty meters and has some wind resistance ability. It does require eighty minutes of charging to fuel an eight-minute flight, but there is so much to love about this product. It's manufactured by a company, highly reputable in drones and copters. The remote is low interference to ensure uninterrupted fly time. This great beginner model features a six-axis gyro to help stabilize flight and allow for smooth flips and dives.
Entertainment Value
Best part about drones is aerials! This one comes equipped with a more than adequate six-axis gyro system to make this possible! Since it has a quadcopter design and headless system, it’s ability for flips and dives will be less encumbered. This is a good beginner’s model for a drone, with the company Holy Stone having an unbeatable reputation.
Value
The Predator Mini RC Helicopter Drone is the second most expensive item on our list. This flying drone falls above our average and is a good starter drone if you want to test the waters with your children, as it’s not as heft of an investment as other models on the market.
7. Chuckit! Squirrel
Layered canvas design makes it durable if your dog wants to give it a tug
Glow-in-the dark features makes it easily locatable
It’s slightly elevated sides make it easier for pick-up off the ground
Waterproof and floatable to strengthening your dog’s swimming abilities
More pliable and a better alternative to a frisbee
Doesn’t navigate well when thrown at long distances
Not suitable for younger dogs that gnaw obsessively
The Flying Squirrel, bright blue, and orange features an amusing image of a squirrel making a silly face. It is not recommended for use by children younger than five. However, for children five and up this fantastic flying toy comes in three sizes to help find the right fit for both child and family companion.
Read moreDesign
It floats and features an aerodynamic design, so it's great for use both in the water and on land. It’s designed to soar through the air at unbelievable distances and speeds. For added aesthetics and convenience it glows, helping to locate it in the dark during a family outing or camping trip.
Entertainment Value
Although this toy is not specifically meant for children, it can create a bridge to strengthen the relationship between your child and dog. What we like about it: By encouraging a bond between canine and child, this toy can instill in children a sense of nurturing and compassion for animals and in turn a general sense of respect for all life.
Value
Want to include your furry friend in the family fun? The ChuckIt! Flying Squirrel is a great way to get everyone up and enjoying the great outdoors. The price varies based on the size you buy and whether you want a single product or a two-pack, but all options fall below our median price point.
8. Aerobie Pro Ring
Low profile design
Delivers long distances with more accuracy
Features soft edge for easy throwing and catching
Game created for two or more players
Encourages social interaction with others
Plastic ring will crack if it is thrown against something hard
One features one ring with each order
Low profile design delivers super accurate and long distance throws. These are the actual flying rings that were used in setting the Guinness World Record. The record is for the fastest throw.
Read moreDesign
Each of the rings features soft edges making catching easier and throwing simpler. It is a great game for two or more players. With the open center to the ring, this design allows users to be able to customize their throw and create their own moves. Whether in the park or the backyard these Pro Rings are one of the fastest flying toys to hit the market.
Entertainment Value
Throwing and catching is a great way to practice social skills. The game is a great aspect of the benefits for children. It allows them to become social with ease and comfortability. This then allows them to learn and be social without having to be worked at the skill.
Value
The Aerobie Pro Ring sits below our average. This flying toy helped to earn the Guinness World Record for the farthest throw: a whopping 1333 feet! Each pack includes three rings in case you lose one to foliage or a curious and chew-happy pet.
9. Stomp Rocket Stunt Planes
Kid powered rockets that soar into the sky
Included are three different types of planes
Each plane can soar up to 100 feet in the air
Adjustable launch pad
Encourages the development of gross motor skills
Planes are not durable, easily damaged is flight path is obstructed
Instructions booklet is not detailed with information regarding stunts
Have the kids run, then jump, and stomp. Away their planes will soar into the sky. Included with the set are three different designed stunt planes that are able to do amazing stunts right in the air. Included planes are; the looper, the glider, and the wildcat. The looper is designed to do giant loops in the air. The gliders are designed to soar high in the sky, with just the right stomp it can clear up to 100 feet in the air. The Wildcat is exactly what it is, wild. It is a plane that is designed to do all types of stunts on its own.
Read moreDesign
Being kid powered is one of the greatest things about this rocket set. Kids are able to learn while they play. For over a quarter century this rocket system has been entertaining kids all over the world. It allows kids to get outside and gets their bodies active while promoting their minds to learn. It is fun for the entire family. It requires no batteries and nothing besides what has been included in the kit. Watching the kids run, jump, and stomp is super fun for all.
Entertainment Value
It is a blast! The stomp rocket not only comes with the plane system, but it also features a science book that makes the whole experience a blast. They are able to learn about concepts like; physics. The running, jumping, and stomping fun will lead to the action that they need physically and the science book will take their minds to a whole new level.
Value
The Stomp Rocket Stunt Planes is just about level with the median price point of our guide. This pack includes three total rockets so you don’t have to worry about immediately buying back ups. Stomp Rockets have been around for years and are a time-tested and well-loved flying toy.
10. Pala Perra RC Helicopter
Robot is controlled by the palm of the hand
Includes rechargeable battery, USB plug
Launches up to 15 feet in the air
Auto shut off when the toy hits the floor
Promotes creativity through play
Indoor toy only, not made for outside play
No instruction booklet included with the robot
Easy to use. Kids turn the robot to its back then press and hold the button for three seconds. The propeller then starts spinning, then all they have to do is let go. Follow the robot with a hand below and the sensor will follow. As you follow the robot will rise. The robot features a propeller blade that has been constructed from high elasticity plastic that is super durable. So once the fun starts for the kids you don’t have to worry about it ending.
Read moreDesign
The motor inside this robot has been built to fly. The motor has been constructed with coordination and strength. The kids are able to control the flight with their hands. This does require the dexterity and coordination which is great for their development. Between their mind, hands, and eyes, it takes some control for even the most coordinated person.
Entertainment Value
When the robot is in flight it is an amazing sight. It provides an engaging experience that allows everyone to participate in the activity. The design is great for providing kids with both fine and gross motor skill development while having a good time making sure the robot does not lose its flight path.
Value
The Pala Perra RC Helicopter falls beneath our guide’s average. This awesome flying robot can be controlled with your palm via infrared technology. If your kid is begging for a drone but you’re not interested in shelling out triple digits yet, this is a great little introductory toy.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Design
In spite of the written reviews of parents, we also consider what is not being said or written! What is most important in all of the toys that we review and suggest, is the family component and interaction. Is this a product through which the whole family can interact, bond, and become closer?! The main aspect of that touches on creativity! It's almost taken for granted that every toy is geared toward the child's creativity, but then no one considers how creative parents have to get and become when dealing with their children. Although, maybe an obligation, this shouldn't be a task or a chore.
Entertainment Value
There are many different kinds of vehicles or toys that fly. From balloons, gliders and gyrocopters to kites and radio-controlled airplanes and a whole lot more. Choosing which ones among these flying toys can be a real headache. Nevertheless, we created a list of what we consider to be the top 10 flying toys we can ever give to our kids this Christmas, for their birthdays, or even on any other special occasion. Here’s how we did it.
First, the design technology had to be considered. It may have a very simple design but if it is truly functional, then we’d definitely consider it. However, the technology must also be safe. The majority of today’s toys, especially those that fly, are full of electronic parts and components that may pose a certain degree of safety risk for very young children. This also speaks about the complexity of the toy. The more features it has, the more electronic components it has, the more complex it becomes, and the more challenging it becomes for the kid to be able to maintain it.
This brings us to our second consideration. Since these toys are generally designed for kids, we definitely want them to benefit from these toys in terms of their physical, mental, cognitive, emotional, and social development. Technically, we examined each feature that the flying toy has and tried to determine what developmental benefit it can bring to children. Next, we also considered the words of parents as well as other consumers who have already tried the toy. The toymaker’s reputation and credibility were also considered. They must have a long history of good quality and developmentally beneficial products.
Value
We analyze the value of each product based upon its relation to the median price point of our guide. There are flying toys that are budget-friendly and ones that are a bigger investment. We’ve tried to provide varied price points so there are options for everyone no matter what you’re looking for. If you’re interested in a specific product and don’t need it immediately, we also suggest checking back for Amazon deals!
Enhances imagination – Kids will always be fascinated by things or events that man is incapable of doing. True, we can ride airplanes but we cannot fly ourselves. This spurs children’s imagination, thinking what it would be like if the man had the power of flight in the same way as birds do.
Builds motor coordination and strength – Throwing flying toys into the air helps develop the muscles of the arms. Controlling them with a device will also require dexterity as well as the excellent coordination between what the eyes see and how the fingers manipulate the controls. There’s simply more to it than just holding onto the remote controller.
Improves social skills – Flying any of these types of toys is a lot more fun if shared with other kids. This provides the opportunity for children to develop their social interaction skills which can also help improve their language and communication.
Design Entertainment Value 
Value 
Flying toys are a great way to help development fine motor skills. When working with flying toys the manual dexterity that it takes to get them to fly helps develop the grasp a pencil and helps aid in tasks later in life.
Working with flying toys is an effective way to development social skills. Interacting with others while playing with flying toys creates a social setting that allows children to work together allows them to understand how working as a team creates a an efficient system.
Other Factors to Consider
Brand
We found as many products as we could that had cross-generational appeal. Luckily, the fascination with flying and gadgets knows no age range. Parents, siblings, and friends can get as creative as they want with this! With aerial camera technology, any scene can be devised for a story or event. Naturally, when it comes to all the major holidays, a few of our products can come in handy--the flying saucer being a no-brainer for Halloween. You can even build an obstacle course for low-flying acrobatics to test out some of that gyroscopic action! The products speak for themselves and the possibilities are only as limited as you are!
Logic
Since the Wright Brothers had made their first forays into flight by 1903, humans have never looked back! The fascination with flight has been within the collective imagination from the beginning. Not just with the observation of birds, but also man's desire to harness this power and ability. Think of the myths of Pegasus, flying dragons and fairies. What do some these things have in common? At some point, we as humans figuratively climbed on the backs of these winged creatures and they took us on an adventure!
Since that first flight back in 1903, almost everyone has had at least one experience on a plane. A few others have taken things more into their own hands, taking flying lessons and acquiring pilot's licenses. Some of the bolder prefer to skydive! Regardless, this is the new paradigm!
The research points to how these products engage the collective imagination and even tap into something more primal--the desire to understand how things work and to get to the bottom of it, if at all possible! The fantastic imagination and the technical one are really not that far apart. Without mathematics and STEM, flight would not even really be possible for us! These products cover both bases as an introduction, an intermediary, and just one step up from the fairies and Pegasus, keeping it all real within the collective consciousness.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: What are the age recommendations for these toys?
These age recommendations for these toys range encompass a wide range. Some are safe for children as young as 4, while others are not recommended for children younger than 10. The helicopters, for example, range with recommendations from 10, with adult supervision up to 12, and children around age 14 can play unattended.
q: Are these toys designed to be reusable?
These toys are designed to be played with over and over. With features like replaceable blades and batteries, the fun will last over and over despite the usual wear and tear the comes from being a child's plaything.
q: How can a toy like this be beneficial for my child? What is Kinetic Energy/ STEAM studies?
In addition to providing ample fun for children, these toys can help introduce concepts in science. These concepts include kinetic energy found in physics, mechanics found in engineering, aerodynamics found in both physics and chemistry. These toys are also designed to help children improve skills such as hand-eye coordination and aim.
q: Do these toys come with manuals to help explain their contents? How do they work?
Most all of these sets come with an instruction manual of some sort. Some do not require this feature as their use is pretty straightforward. There are a number of methods associated with powering these toys from manual to kinetic energy to velocity and inertia. Each flight toy is designed to touch on a different concept.
q: Do the high-tech copters come with a camera?
Yes there are options that have either a built-in camera included or the ability to buy one separately.
q: How much adult assistance is required?
For some toys, children can play together without much adult supervision or help with assembly. All are relatively easy to configure and those that require assistance also come with a manual included.
q: How can I find replacement parts? Are there additional items I need to purchase?
While some do include a number of replacement parts, there are pieces and accessories sold separately. There is a special glue that should be purchased for the rocket (it’s included in the links that follow).
Sources
- , 9 Flying Toys To Teach The Science Of Flight, Guide
- , How Radio Controlled Toys Work ,
- , Quadcopters! And other toys of the future, Informative Guide
- , 5 Surprising Uses for Your High Flying Drone, Informative Guide
- , Fly for Fun under the Special Rule for Model Aircraft, Informative Article
