We have had similar discussions in our club. The stabilization systems makes the hobby more accessible; just about anyone can now "learn" how to fly. I think that in general, it is a good thing. We do have a few members in the club whom without these systems they would not get to enjoy flying model airplanes. For those who can develop the skills, we encourage them to get weened off as their skills progress. We also have a fairly robust instructor core; so just about anyone who wants to learn how to fly gets a chance and there is always someone with more experience who is willing to help out. Those who are truly interested in the hobby normally make the progression, those who are less committed don't and we don't push them. To each their own...

To me, the hardest thing, is trying to convince new pilots to move into larger, non-foam airplanes. I do believe that balsa flies better than foam and that bigger is also better. With so many RTF offerings out there; mostly made of foam, many seem reluctant to try something else. I think that it is part because some effort is required to assemble an ARF properly. Then again, we also provide assistance in that respect. In our club, we have 4 active IMAC pilots and 1 pattern flyer. Looking at the airplanes flown, we could probably have another 6 IMAC pilots and possibly another 2 pattern pilots, but getting them to try it out is very difficult. For example, one the members is curious about IMAC but will not commit to dedicating one day to flying the basic IMAC sequence just to try it out. Although I fly pattern, I offered to call for him and try to coach him and he is still reluctant. I just don't know what the right answer is. Maybe one of these days someone will bite...