A Flite Test bundle is a viable way to get into the air. For the first airplane stick with something that is clearly described as a trainer. A couple of suggestions. If you go with Flite Test, as soon as you get the airplane go to Dollar tree or similar store and get some more foam board. Trace all the parts. It's cheap insurance and easier to do when the parts aren't all wadded up from your first crash. The Flite Test videos are good but if there is a local hobby store there is probably a local group of people who fly. Somebody in that group will be happy to help you learn to fly. You may run into a hobby elitist who will poop on foamboard, ignore them and keep asking around, the helpful people are out there. Many, if not most, flying clubs have a facebook page. The local hobby shop may be able to help. Look to see if there is a bulletin board or fliers for local events. Sadly, your buddy fell victim to one of the things that discourages many would be RC pilots. He was a sucker for a warbird. Been there, done that, came home with the wreckage to prove it. Warbirds are way cool but they are generally a bit too much for a new pilot.