Whitewings is a celebrated line of high-performance paper airplane kits designed by Japanese engineer Dr. Yasuaki Ninomiya. Spanning from its debut in 1980 through the early 2000s, the Whitewings brand released numerous sets that captivated hobbyists around the world.
Between 1980 and 1995, eight core Whitewings volumes were released, each containing 15 different glider models. Each volume was sold as a boxed assembly kit with paper templates, a rubber-band catapult launcher, and a detailed instruction and aviation science booklet. Early sets were named rather than numbered on the packaging (Original, Collection, Heritage), but later ones explicitly noted the volume number. These core sets covered a range of themes and aircraft types, showcasing Dr. Ninomiya’s creativity and engineering skills. Collectively, they introduced 98 unique paper airplane designs. Below is a breakdown of the core series, including release dates, set names, and the airplane models in each.
While the original Whitewings airplanes were all-paper, Dr. Ninomiya also introduced versions that incorporated balsa wood components for simplicity and durability. These hybrid kits used a lightweight balsa fuselage, with the wings and tail still made of cardstock. The balsa made assembly easier (fewer parts to cut and glue) and the strength of the wood added to the durability of the airplane. Several balsa-based Whitewings products were released in parallel to the core paper series.
Beyond the core volumes listed above, Whitewings saw several limited editions, re-packaged collections, and promotional releases over the years. These often emerged from partnerships with retailers, museums, or for special commemorative purposes. Here is a sampling:
