If you value adventure and freedom, planes will represent you perfectly. And these creative airplane tattoos may inspire your next ink.

Not as common as flower or butterfly tattoos, airplane tattoos appeal to a specific demographic. Because an airplane may symbolize a journey, exploration, and new destinations, plane tattoos are often seen on adventurers or people that live far away from home.

An airplane inked on the skin can also remind the wearers to pursue freedom, go outside their comfort zone, and embrace new experiences.

For these reasons, airplane tattoos are usually personal and meaningful.

But different types of airplane tattoos come with different symbolisms. So in this post, we will cover the meaning of types of airplanes and paper planes with some beautiful examples.

Small airplane tattoo ideas

A small airplane tattoo can mean different things to different people. For some, it symbolizes spiritual freedom, reminding them to always embrace the unknown.

For others, a small plane tattoo can represent a new journey or departure. Therefore, it usually carries mixed feelings – the excitement of starting fresh and the sorrow of saying goodbye.

And just because a plane tattoo is small doesn’t mean it has to be monotoned. Below is a list of simple yet beautiful small airplane tattoos to give you some ideas.

Inner finger airplane tattoo

@playground_tat2

There’s nothing more discreet than an inner finger tattoo. This small airplane and the extended contrail fit on this narrow, elongated placement. If you are a minimalist looking for something low-profile, this one may be it.

Plane and quote tattoo

@kalakaarshaggy

Airplanes are a symbol of exploration. This tattoo, however, pushes the idea further by adding an inspiring quote to it. And it reminds us that growth is found in uncertainty.

Matching cosmos airplane tattoos

@playground_tat2

Matching tattoos don’t have to be identical. These pair of wrist tattoos show how you can use related elements to create a cohesive look.

Small plane and symbols

@tattooist_arar

If you have more to express in a tattoo, adding extra elements is a good idea. This small tattoo, for example, includes the moon, a star, the sun, and a snowflake, representing different seasons and times in a day. It reflects the owner’s connection with nature and her understanding of life.

Abstract airplane inner arm tattoo

@couleurgravier

For people who don’t want to be too specific or literal, an abstract outline design like this will fit their aesthetics.

Small heart and plane tattoo

@nieun_tat2

One of the most loved airplane tattoo designs is a plane with a heart shape.

Both of the elements have simple silhouettes. And the combination has just the right amount of cuteness and personality.

Black and white airplanes

@jperales.tattoo

Tattooist Intat mentioned in our interview that yin and yang are a big part of his design logic. This small black-and-white airplane is another great interpretation.

If you love planes and value balance, consider a simple yet timeless tattoo like this.

The vanishing flight

@newtattoo_gogo

Each flight may hold different sentiments for different people. It can be the start of a happy journey, or it can be a painful goodbye. This gradient tattoo on the wrist has a mysterious feeling to it that keeps us guessing.

Heartbeat and airplane

@angelsinktattoos.surat

An ECG tattoo often represents life and energy. It’s commonly seen in nurse tattoos as a tribute to life. This shoulder tattoo, however, connects the lines of ECG with a plane and reflects the owner’s excitement for the new life chapter.

Plane and wine glass

@nieun_tat2

What a fun take on plane tattoos. The wine in the glass gives the design movements and liveliness. If you are someone who loves a sip from time to time, this tattoo will represent you in a light-hearted way.

Plane tattoo for travelers

@berivanis.tatts

With a starfish, a hot balloon, and a tent, this airplane tattoo will belong to someone who loves traveling, especially on tropical islands.

Simple plane matching tattoos

@nieun_tat2

Simple tattoos are the ones that stand the test of time. These matching tattoos consist of waves and a plane; both can symbolize life changes. But what won’t change is the friendship they represent.

Simple air plane behind the ear

@suntattoobcn

If you want to hide or show your ink as you wish, behind-the-ear tattoos are for you.

You can control its visibility by putting your hair down or tying it up. Make sure you have a design that is beautiful and will fit the limited space.

Tiny shoulder tattoo

@mrs.tattoo

Airplanes are a popular first tattoo idea because they can be really simple. The shape of a plane can be reduced to a few lines. This way, the pain is mild, and the tattoo is more affordable.

Minimalist plane tattoo

@simbar_tattoo

Another minimalist plane tattoo but with a twist. Unlike most air-themed ink, this one depicts an airplane taking off. A simple change of orientation adds hope and positivity to its meaning.

Snowflake and plane

@thebossinktattoopiercingstudio

Each snowflake is beautiful in its own way. This tattoo turns part of the snowflake into a red airplane.With this small highlight, the tattoo tells us that new experiences can make us a better person.

Sun and airplane wrist tattoos

@fawn.ink

Instead of filling the sun and the plane with solid colors, the tattooist leaves small blank spaces and creates a shadow effect. It also gives the tattoos a feeling of lightness, making them ideal for girls.

The landing plane collarbone tattoo

@thelotusboxtattoostudio

Another airplane tattoo that plays with the posture. It depicts a plane flying toward the viewers, possibly ready to land. In that case, the tattoo may belong to someone who’s been away from home for a long time and is finally coming back.

Tiny minimalist plane tattoo

@kiristattoo

Just because a tattoo is simple doesn’t mean it is boring. Take this one as an example. The tattooist draws the entire plane in one single line.

The smoothness of the lines demonstrates the creativity and skills of the artist. And the stars dotted around make the tattoo pop even more.

Half bracelet airplane tattoo

@5e_tattoo

A bracelet tattoo refers to the one on the wrist that wraps around it. This plane tattoo is unique because it leaves a gap on the wrist. Not only does it act as a breather, but it also makes the entire design more interesting and unexpected.

Discreet plane tattoo on the rib

@juan_blat_tatuaje

From afar, this rib tattoo looks like a random curve on the body. But the plane at the end of the line suggests it to be the contrail. It’s a subtle expression of the owner’s pursuit of freedom and new adventures.

Cute paper plane tattoos

Paper planes always remind us of our childhood. A paper plane tattoo may symbolize joy and purity or commemorate a special moment.

But more commonly, paper plane tattoos represent the owners’ determination to embark on a new journey.

When you fold a paper plane and throw it in the air, it flies away with your hope and dreams. That’s why paper planes make perfect tattoos for adventurers, travelers, or those who aspire to a new beginning.

Small rainbow paper plane

@minie._.chan

Paper planes always give a feeling of joy and fun. The rainbow in this tattoo further accentuates this characteristic. Additionally, as a symbol of hope and diversity, this rainbow tattoo is an excellent reminder to be kind and inclusive.

Throwing a paper plane

@eslstudent

Have you competed with your childhood friends to see whose paper planes flew the furthest? If so, this cute little tattoo may recall that special moment in your mind.

Intricate paper airplane tattoo

@yeontaan

Most paper planes are portrayed as white in tattoos. This one, however, stands out with the intricate pattern. And it looks like the plane is folded with a poster, which says a lot about the wearer’s bold personality.

Childhood dream to reality

@handitrip

The combination of a paper plane and a real plane is new but makes sense.

The paper plane represents a childhood dream or the desire to explore the world. While on the other hand, the plane stands for taking action to fulfill the dream. So much is said in such a simple tattoo.

Believe

@harb.toni

If you pick the right word, one-word tattoos can say a million things.

Camera and airplane outline tattoo

@j_erre_tattoo

Although most single-lined tattoos lean towards the minimal side, the tangled and twisted lines make this camera tattoo look intricate and elegant.

Stylish airplane sticker tattoo

@conio_polifamous

Want a tattoo that will not go under the radar? This bold and creative bicep ink may be a good idea.

The lines and shadows make the elements look like stickers on the skin. The visual illusion will definitely have people watching and talking.

Small paper plane finger tattoo

@simbar_tattoo

Fighter aircraft tattoo designs

Fighter plane tattoos are getting increasingly popular today. They can be simple, black and grey, or colorful. But they all have one thing in common: they symbolize strength and power.

People choose to get fighter plane tattoos because it is a way of presenting themselves to the world as a man or woman of character. For some, these tattoos show their love for flying or their loyalty to the air force.

Pixel jet

@lukovnikovtattoo

This tattoo is a good example of using patterns and colors to personalize a design. It reflects the creative and carefree side of the wearer and a unique artistic point of view.

Fly across the sky

@alex_blackline

Plane tattoos with a background are not uncommon. However, the jet is flying out of the frame in this tattoo, creating a unique 3D effect.

Bold blackwork fighter aircraft

@tony_tatt

Unlike realism plane tattoos, this fighter plane is made of solid black shapes and lines. While the construction may be simple, the black makes it impossible to be ignored.

Geometric jet fighter

@fleurnoiretatto

Geometric tattoos are precise and simple. They consist of basic shapes and lines. But each shape is situated where it should exactly be, reflecting the wearer’s vigorous personality.

Cute plane tattoo inspired by The Koala Brothers

@takieo_tattoo

Biplane tattoos and meaning

A biplane is an airplane with one wing on top and one on the bottom.

As one of the earliest aircraft, a biplane has a natural vintage feeling attached to it.

As expected, biplane tattoos are popular amongst pilots or plane lovers. The two wings represent adventure and freedom. Therefore, it is also an ideal tattoo option for risk-takers and untethered souls.

Small biplane tattoo

@tattoovasquez

What makes this tattoo so visually pleasing is the alignment. The wings are placed horizontally on the arm, making the tattoo look perfectly balanced and symmetrical.

Realism biplane rib tattoo

@miniminionta_ttt

A big tattoo on the rib is not less seen. However, this tattoo takes one step further by perfectly capturing every detail. And the result is beautiful.

Emergency landing

@judz.ttt

This ink on the bicep is a perfect example of tattoos in motion. The explosion in the back and the plane crashing toward the viewers all give an impressive visual impact.

Two-color plane tattoo

@mambotattooer

Intricate biplane tattoo

@hansantattoo

Creative airplane tattoos

So far, you’ve seen some of the best airplane tattoos. But if you want to stand out from the crowd with unique ink, don’t miss out on the following creative airplane tattoo ideas.

Plane and anchor tattoo

@inkfactorybg

The anchor symbolizes home, as it helps one to stay grounded. The way it is connected to a plane says a lot about the wearer.

This tattoo will belong to someone who aims to explore the world while keeping home and family close to heart.

Colorful airplane cutout

@zoonmo_

The crashing plane

@tattooist_irae2

Aim higher

@zeroo.art

You can only go up from there when you’ve traveled the entire world. This back tattoo is a proof of ambition and courage.

Infinity symbol airplane tattoos for best friends

@eat_my_pen

Airplanes are often seen in friendship tattoos because they represent the way home. The plane contrails in these matching tattoos resemble the infinity symbol, meaning the friendship will be forever strong.

Meaningful quote tattoo

@ynnssteiakakis

Golden plane with destinations

@jooa_tattoo

Floral map and airplane arm tattoo

@anna_latacz

Waves and plane

@heim__tattoo

Waves and planes can both symbolize inevitable changes in life. But on a positive note, they can also represent new beginnings.

If you are about to start a new life chapter, this tattoo will empower you to rise to challenges.

Plane and world map sleeve tattoo

@tattooist_bae

Compass tattoos often symbolize direction and guidance. With the plane on top, this sleeve tattoo is a reminder to stay true to yourself and not get lost in an overwhelming world.

Plane and butterfly touch-up tattoo

@tattooist_namoo

Airplane and butterfly tattoos are both representations of freedom. This small, sparkling ink is a good combination of meaning and visual appeal.

Headspace

@bongkee_

Going around the moon

@tattoo.sie

Over the ocean

@evgenymel

Hang in there

@inkdustry_studio

Not all airplane tattoos depict a plane. This tattoo shows what it’s like looking out from a plane window.

However, the fun twist is the man hanging by the wing. It turns a static tattoo into a story and makes it dramatic.

Let the adventure begin

@seminyakink_finelineartwork

Watercolor plane tattoo

@paulina_kocurek

Watercolor tattoos look good on the body because of the fluidity of colors. In addition, the colors are in contrast with the solid black plane, making this tattoo even more eye-catching.

Whimsical tree and plane

@tattooist_namoo

Which of these airplane tattoos is your favorite?

Share your thoughts in the comment below!