The invention solves the problem of protecting aircraft components during finishing. Such components are large and require masking films of vast dimensions which are difficult to handle and position rapidly. The invention relates to films packaged to facilitate transport, and to a method of positioning the packaged films on the corresponding components. The longitudinal and/or transverse portions of the films are packaged by means of at least one opération chosen from among: accordion folding, telescopic folding, gâte folding, roll folding, winding around a mandrel, and winding on itself. The packaged films can have positioning markers on at least one surface and/or tear lines suitable for detaching the portions of film to be separated. The invention also concerns a kit comprising a film and a guide element for guiding the positioning of the film on the component.