Aeroplane Chess is a colorful, fun-filled board game that has entertained families and friends for generations. While it looks simple at first glance, many beginners (and even seasoned players) often have questions about its rules, strategies, and variations. To make things easy, we’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about Aeroplane Chess—along with clear, detailed answers.
1. 🛫 What is Aeroplane Chess?
Aeroplane Chess is a Chinese cross-and-circle board game, inspired by the classic Indian game Pachisi and similar to Ludo. The board is shaped like a cross, with colorful paths leading to a central square (the “home base”). Each player controls four planes (instead of pawns or tokens) and races to get all of them safely into the center.
2. 🎲 How do you start the game?
To begin, each player chooses a color (red, blue, yellow, or green) and places their four planes in their hangar (the starting corner). Players take turns rolling a dice.
- To launch a plane onto the board, a player usually needs to roll a 5 (some versions allow a 6 instead).
- Once a plane is launched, it moves forward according to the dice rolls.
3. ✈️ How do planes move on the board?
Planes move clockwise around the board, following their colored path. When they complete a full circle, they turn into their final approach (the inner colored path) that leads to the center “home base.”
The exact number must be rolled to land in the center. If the dice roll overshoots, the plane must bounce back.
4. ⚔️ Can you attack other players’ planes?
Yes! If your plane lands on a square already occupied by an opponent’s plane, their plane is knocked out and sent back to its hangar. They will need to roll another 5 (or 6) to relaunch it.
This attacking rule is what makes Aeroplane Chess exciting, competitive, and sometimes frustrating—but always fun!
5. 🛡️ Are there safe zones in Aeroplane Chess?
Yes. Certain spots on the board (usually marked with a star ✦ or color) are considered safe zones. If a plane is sitting there, it cannot be attacked or knocked out.
Safe zones add a tactical layer—players often aim for them when in danger.
6. ⏩ What are shortcuts in Aeroplane Chess?
One of the game’s unique features is the shortcuts. If your plane lands on a star or a specially marked space, it may take a shortcut that lets it “fly” forward several spaces.
- These shortcuts can drastically speed up the game.
- However, they can also make your plane more vulnerable to attacks depending on where they land.
7. 👨👩👧👦 How many people can play Aeroplane Chess?
Aeroplane Chess is designed for 2 to 4 players. Some variations allow up to 6 players with expanded boards, but the standard game is four-player.
8. 🏆 How do you win the game?
The first player to successfully move all four of their planes into the central base is the winner. Other players may continue competing for second or third place, or the game can end once the winner is declared.
9. 🧠 Is Aeroplane Chess based on luck or strategy?
It’s a mix of both:
- Luck comes from rolling the dice.
- Strategy comes from deciding which plane to move, when to take shortcuts, when to attack, and when to play defensively.
This balance is what makes the game fun for all ages. Even beginners can beat experienced players if they get lucky, but skilled players often know how to maximize their chances.
10. 🎮 Is Aeroplane Chess available online?
Yes! Aeroplane Chess is available in many digital forms:
- Mobile apps on Android and iOS.
- Online multiplayer versions.
- PC/browser-based games.
This means you can play against family, friends, or even strangers worldwide.
11. 🌍 Where did Aeroplane Chess originate?
Aeroplane Chess originated in China around the 20th century, influenced by the German game “Mensch ärgere Dich nicht” (itself a version of Pachisi). It gained popularity due to its fun design and became a household favorite across Asia.
12. 🛫 Why are planes used instead of pawns?
The game was created during a time when airplanes were a new and exciting invention. Using planes instead of traditional pawns made the game feel more modern and appealing to children. The aviation theme stuck, making it distinct from similar games like Ludo.
13. 👶 Is Aeroplane Chess suitable for kids?
Absolutely. The game is designed with children in mind:
- Simple dice mechanics.
- Bright, colorful boards.
- Quick rounds that keep kids engaged.
It also helps kids learn counting, patience, decision-making, and sportsmanship.
14. 🕒 How long does a game of Aeroplane Chess take?
A typical game lasts 20 to 60 minutes, depending on:
- Number of players.
- Dice luck.
- How many planes get knocked out and sent back.
This makes it perfect for family time, travel, or casual play.
15. 🤔 What are common mistakes beginners make?
Some frequent beginner mistakes include:
- Forgetting to launch planes early.
- Ignoring shortcuts.
- Overextending planes without using safe zones.
- Getting too focused on one plane instead of balancing multiple.
(👉 We’ve written a full guide on this topic—check out our blog: Common Mistakes Beginners Make in Aeroplane Chess).
16. 🧩 Can Aeroplane Chess be customized?
Yes! Many families create house rules, such as:
- Changing the launch number (5 or 6).
- Adding bonus rolls for knocking out opponents.
- Allowing stacked planes to attack together.
Some even design custom boards or 3D versions for added fun.
17. 🏠 Why is Aeroplane Chess a great family game?
Because it’s:
- Easy to learn.
- Fun for all ages.
- Competitive but lighthearted.
- Affordable and portable.
It’s a perfect way to bond, laugh, and spend quality screen-free time together.
Final Thoughts
Aeroplane Chess may seem like a simple game, but its combination of luck, strategy, and playful competition has made it a family favorite for decades. Whether you’re learning the rules, teaching it to kids, or revisiting it with friends, this FAQ should clear up any doubts and help you enjoy the game even more.
