If you're looking for a plane for a younger pilot, or aren't looking to spend a lot of money, the Hobby Zone Firebird series seems to be another popular choice amongst forum cruisers. The advantage to the Firebirds are that they come with EVERYTHING you need to fly: transmitter, plane, battery, and charger.

Typically, these planes have rudder and throttle control, which teaches good habits. Throttle is what makes ANY plane go up and down, not elevator.

With the limited control, though, you may grow bored of the plane quickly after sorting out your right from your left in the air. When flying for the first few times, make sure you have lots and lots of open space around, and light winds. As you grow accustomed to the plane, you might find challenge in flying the plane in smaller areas, or in windier conditions. Some of the planes also have optional "Sonic Combat Modules" so you and a friend can have mock dogfights.

The current version of the Firebird series is the Firebird Commander. Hobby Zone also markets a similar plane called the Aerobird Challenger. It gives you elevator control in addition to rudder and throttle, and is a good step up from the Firebird.

Firebirds and Aerobirds are available at many hobby shops, and top out at about $150 for an Aerobird Challenger.