I'm an instructor working with a student who has a Nexstar. I find it somewhat like driving a car with the brakes on. But overall, I think its OK for people learning. Once you feel that it is too slow for your skill level, take the airbrakes off. Otherwise, leave them on while learning. Also, be sure to use the 11 x 5 prop that comes with the Nexstar. The more common 10 x 6 prop does not have quite as much thrust, which is really needed with this plane.