The utility model discloses a physical model for simulating air gap-type partial discharge, which comprises an air gap device, an upper electrode and a lower electrode, wherein the air gap device comprises an insulation layer and an air gap arranged inside the insulation layer; the upper electrode is arranged on the upper surface of the insulation layer and located right above the air gap; and the lower electrode is arranged on the lower surface of the insulation layer and located right below the air gap. According to the physical model for simulating air gap-type partial discharge, air gap discharge failure of insulated inner parts of electrical equipment such as a switch cabinet and ring main unit can be simulated, a test physical model is provided for research and analysis of partial discharge detection of the type, and the model is simple in structure and convenient in operation.