So, if you took an Airfix/Revell aeroplane model and put an engine and remote control on it, would it fly?

Hmm. That’s an interesting question.

Since it’s a model of a functional aircraft, you’d think that it ought to. However, I wonder if the airfoils on the model are true-to-scale and finely enough finished at the crucial leading edge to make for decent flight.

Then there’s the power-to-weight ratio. The power of a jet engine is so highly concentrated, compared to any type of motor you could mount into a plastic frame. Which brings up the issues of heat deflection, absorption and radiation. But let’s assume those issues are overcome, and you find the right engine and shields to prevent the model from melting or burning.

Then you’d have a ratio of power to wing surface to deal with, since – aside from the airfoil itself – you have to deal with a three-way ratio: power : weight : airfoil surface.

Can’t wait to see the video!

Probably not, because the weight of the engine would likely throw off the aerodynamics.

While physically it might be a replica of a real airplane model, it’s unlikely that weight distribution is the same.

Maybe the Spitfire & Lancaster Bomber would, but the Heinkel & Messerschmitt would crash & burn in a pathetic, twisted, mangled heap.