First rate packaging of my car and Modelcars handled my order in an expedient manner. No issues with their services.
SKU:
GJ1718
Lockheed L-188 Electra Commercial Aircraft "American Airlines" Silver with Red Stripes 1/400 Diecast Model Airplane by GeminiJets
$51.99
1
Person
Is
Looking At This Right Now!
In Stock
- Ships within 1 business day
Fast Shipping
30-Day Returns
Secure Checkout
Product Details
- Brand new 1/400 scale diecast airplane model of Lockheed L-188 Electra Commercial Aircraft "American Airlines" Silver with Red Stripes die cast model by GeminiJets.
- Detailed exterior.
- True-to-scale detail.
- Does NOT include stand.
- This model does not have any openings.
- Manufacturer's original unopened packaging.
- Made of diecast metal with some plastic parts.
- Dimensions approximately L-3.125, Wingspan-3 inches.
- Diecast metal and plastic construction for durability and a heavy, realistic feel.
- HISTORY ASPECTS:
- The Lockheed L-188 Electra, registered as N6118A and operated by American Airlines, holds a special place in the history of commercial aviation. This turboprop airliner, introduced in the late 1950s, represented a leap forward in terms of speed, comfort, and capacity. With its distinctive four-engine design and advanced technology, the Electra played a pivotal role in shaping the future of air travel and was a critical part of American Airlines' fleet during a time of significant change in the industry.
- After several attempts to launch a 4-engine airliner by Lockheed failed in the early to mid-1950's, an order for 35 L-188A Electras by American Airlines in June 1955 secured the start for this fine airplane. Shortly thereafter, an order came in in September 1955 for 40 aircraft for Eastern Air Lines. Powered by the same Allison 501-D engine as the already popular Lockheed C-130 military transport, the Electra was off to a good start and first flew in December 1957. Parallel to the Electra, the U.S. Navy saw huge potential in the aircraft and launched a military version of the type in the late 1950's, known as the P-3 Orion.
- The Lockheed L-188 Electra is regarded as one of the best airframes ever made and enjoyed many years of flying right into the jet age. In fact, the Electra could outperform many early jets that were introduced to replace the Electra. The Electra would go on to serve many airlines well into the 1970's and 80's. With increasing fuel costs, the Electra's 4 powerful engines would eventually force its demise as a passenger aircraft, but its robust airframe gave it a new lease on life, and most Electras were subsequently converted into freighter planes.
- N6118A's history with American Airlines is marked by its impact on passenger experience and the airline's commitment to innovation. The L-188 Electra provided travelers with a spacious cabin, large windows, and a smooth ride, making it a popular choice among passengers. American Airlines used the Electra on a variety of routes, both domestic and international, and it became an iconic part of the airline's fleet during the 1960s and 1970s.
- This replica captures the essence of the aircraft, from its unique design to the iconic livery. For those who appreciate the significance of the Electra in advancing air travel and American Airlines' dedication to passenger satisfaction, this 1:400 scale model is a must-have addition to any collection. Display it with pride and celebrate the innovation, comfort, and legacy of American Airlines in the world of commercial aviation.
Shipping and Returns
Orders are processed and shipped within 1 business day. Depending on your location, packages take 2 to 7 business days for transit in the Continental United States.
Ordered the wrong model? Didn't like the decals? We want to be sure you get exactly what you want.
- Contact us and let us know which item you need to return or exchange.
- We will give you an RA number. Be sure to write this on the outside of the shipping box.
- Send the return to the address we provide, and you're done!
Richard S.
Great selection on your site and loving the idea of getting free shipping!
Why ModelCars.com?
In a market full of broken promises, we keep it simple. What you see is what you get, every single time.
Built for Builders & Collectors
From your first kit to your 500th model.
15,000+ Models & Supplies
If it exists in scale, we probably have it.
Fast, Reliable Shipping
If it's in stock, it ships. No surprises.
Real Support
Real people. Real help when you need it.
Easy Returns
Simple returns if something isn't right.
Carefully Packed
We protect every detail so it reaches you safely.
Trusted by 6,000+ hobbyists
Real reviews from real builders and collectors.
Shipping and delivery was as good as the company had stated, received both models in good shape on time.
Arrived promptly in as advertised condition. Excellent quality and addition to my scale collection. terrific seller
I've bought many models from them, and when I made a mistake, Dan from customer service was prompt, courteous, and very helpful.
Questions, Answered Honestly.
A model kit comes unassembled on plastic sprues (the frames that hold the parts). You cut, glue, and paint the pieces yourself, it's a hands-on building experience that can take anywhere from a few hours to several evenings. A diecast car is a pre-built, pre-painted metal collectible ready for display straight out of the box. Both are scaled replicas, but kits are for builders who enjoy the process, and diecast is for collectors who want a finished showpiece.
Scale is the size ratio compared to the real vehicle:
1:12 — About 14". Museum-level detail, large display piece.
1:18 — About 10". Most popular collector scale. Often features opening doors, hood, and trunk.
1:24 / 1:25 — About 7". Most popular kit-building scale. Great balance of detail and size.
1:32 / 1:43 — About 4–5". Compact, ideal for larger collections.
1:64 — Hot Wheels size. Perfect for collecting by the dozens.
1:87 — Smallest. Typically used with model train layouts.
Choose based on your display space, detail preference, and whether you're building a collection or a single showcase piece.
Start with a snap-together kit, no glue or paint required. Revell and AMT both make great beginner kits in 1:25 scale, rated skill level 1 or 2. Pick a car you love, that motivation makes the build more enjoyable. Once you're comfortable, move to a cement-assembly kit with basic paint. We carry beginner kits starting under $20. Check our Beginner's Guide for step-by-step recommendations including your first tools, paints, and techniques.
It depends on the kit and your preference:
- Acrylic (water-based) — Beginner-friendly, easy cleanup, low odor. Tamiya and Vallejo are popular choices.
- Enamel — Smoother finish, longer drying time, requires mineral spirits. Testors is the classic choice for Revell kits.
- Lacquer — Dries fastest, hardest finish, requires good ventilation. Tamiya TS spray cans are lacquer-based.
Important: Don't mix paint types on the same surface without a primer coat between them. Every paint listing on our site clearly shows the type and compatible brands.
Skill levels help you choose the right kit:
Level 1 — Snap-together, no glue or paint needed. Great for kids and absolute beginners.
Level 2 — Simple glue assembly, minimal painting.
Level 3 (Intermediate) — Standard cement assembly with painting. Most kits fall here.
Level 4 & 5 (Advanced) — Complex builds with many parts and detailed painting. For experienced modelers.
We display the skill level on every kit listing, so you can make an informed choice.
Every product we sell is 100% authentic. We source directly from authorized distributors and carry genuine products from over 60 brands including Tamiya, Revell, AMT, AUTOart, Maisto, Bburago, Hot Wheels, Greenlight, and many more. No counterfeits, no gray-market imports, no relabeled products.
All orders ship within 1 business day. If a product shows "In Stock" on our site, it's ready to go, no backorder surprises, no ghost inventory. Delivery typically takes 3–7 business days within the US. You'll receive a tracking number via email as soon as your order leaves our facility.
Orders over $99 ship free within the United States. For orders under $99, shipping is calculated at checkout based on package weight and your location. We also ship to Canada, though international rates vary. A progress bar in your cart shows how close you are to the free shipping threshold.
Yes, we ship to Canada. Rates are calculated at checkout. International orders may be subject to customs duties and import taxes (buyer's responsibility). Delivery to Canada typically takes 7–14 business days. For other destinations, contact us to discuss options.
Every order is double-boxed with bubble wrap, the product box is wrapped and cushioned inside a larger shipping box. For fragile or high-value diecast models, we add extra padding. Our customers consistently mention our packaging quality as a reason they come back.
Yes. If a product shows "In Stock," it is in our warehouse and ready to ship. We do not list items as available if they're on backorder or in transit from a supplier. We know how frustrating it is to order something marked "in stock" only to get a backorder notice days later, that doesn't happen here.
Yes. Once your order ships, you'll receive an email with a tracking number and link to follow your package in real time. You can also log into your account to view order status at any time.
We offer a 30-day return window from the date of delivery. Items must be in original, unopened condition. For opened kits or diecast with damaged packaging, contact us, we handle these case-by-case and always try to find a fair solution.
If your item arrives damaged, contact us right away with photos of the damage (both product and shipping box). We'll send a replacement or issue a full refund, no runaround, no fighting. If we shipped it, we take responsibility for it arriving safely.
Email us at customerservice@modelcars.com. We're real people, not bots, not an outsourced call center. You'll get a personal response, typically within 24 hours. We pride ourselves on making things right when issues come up.
Contact us immediately and we'll ship the correct item right away, at no cost to you. We'll also provide a prepaid return label for the incorrect item. You won't pay a cent to fix our mistake.
We strive to offer competitive pricing across our 25,000+ products. While we don't have a formal price-match guarantee, reach out to us if you find a lower price on an identical in-stock item at another authorized retailer. We'd rather earn your business than lose it over a few dollars.
We're actively exploring ways to reward repeat customers. Right now, the best way to save is through our free shipping over $99 threshold and our sale and clearance section. Sign up for our email list to be the first to know about exclusive deals and any future loyalty program.
Still have questions?
Our team responds within 24 hours. Real people, real answers.