Which Thunderbirds Three-Model Kit Should You Choose?

Choosing a Thunderbirds modelling project? The Trapped in the Sky and Heavy Rescue kits each contain three vehicles, but offer quite different builds. Start with the craft you want to make, then check the finished sizes.

Trapped in the Sky: Thunderbird 1, Fireflash and the Elevator Car

The Bellfine Trapped in the Sky kit brings together Thunderbird 1, the Fireflash airliner and the High-Speed Elevator Car. It is the choice for modellers drawn to the aircraft and rescue machinery of Thunderbirds’ opening episode.

  • Thunderbird 1: 1:250 scale, approximately 140 mm long.
  • Fireflash: 1:500 scale, approximately 230 mm long.
  • High-Speed Elevator Car: 1:144 scale, approximately 130 mm long.

The Elevator Car can be built in its manned or remote-controlled configuration. This is one vehicle with a choice of configuration, rather than two separate Elevator Cars.

Heavy Rescue: Thunderbird 2, Firefly and the Excavator

The Heavy Rescue kit pairs Thunderbird 2 with two specialist rescue vehicles. Choose it if the pod machinery is the part of International Rescue you most want to build.

  • Thunderbird 2: 1:500 scale, approximately 150 mm long.
  • Firefly: 1:144 scale, approximately 100 mm long.
  • Excavator Car: 1:144 scale, approximately 110 mm long.

Are the models all the same scale?

No. Both sets use mixed scales. They give you three individual vehicle builds, but their relative sizes do not form a single-scale scene. If you are matching an existing collection or planning a diorama, use the scale of each vehicle rather than treating the box as one scale.

What will you need?

Both are plastic model kits that require assembly, paint and glue. Decals and instructions are included. Allow for your modelling materials when planning the project; these are not finished, ready-to-display models.

Which is right for you?

Choose Trapped in the Sky for Thunderbird 1, the larger Fireflash build and the Elevator Car. Choose Heavy Rescue for Thunderbird 2, Firefly and the Excavator. Both kits were £79.99 when checked on 9 September 2026; see the product pages for current prices and availability.

Buying for someone who prefers a finished model? Our Thunderbird 2 model buyer’s guide compares ready-to-display models with build-and-paint kits.