After deciding on the JF-17 Thunder, we knew the next step was digging deeper into how jets look, feel, and inspire. So we packed our notebooks (and curiosity!) and headed to the Pakistan Air Force Museum.

While the museum primarily showcases historic aircraft and older models, we had hoped to spot the Thunder in person. Unfortunately, I wasn’t there, but the trip turned into a treasure hunt of its own! Inside the museum shop, we found mini models of the JF-17, along with an entire collection of themed keepsakes—pins, cups, posters, and more. Each piece gave us fresh ideas for how kids could interact with a jet beyond just seeing it.

Exploring further, we got to see fascinating equipment and jet parts up close, including something unexpected: a captured enemy aircraft (MIG-21 Bison) from a past operation against IAF. That discovery reminded us how much history lives within these walls.

Of course, no trip was complete without grabbing snacks from the vendors on site and hopping on a few rides—because the museum isn’t just about research, it’s also a space for families to spend a day together (and giving stray little cattos head pats 🥰)

This visit helped shape our vision of how kids could not only build but also play with the Thunder in a way that connects to both history and fun!

More on this trip, informing our design in part 2!

-Creative Team

Leather for Kids