GTac,
You started getting it a few posts ago. Find a club, go check things out, talk to an instructor and find out what radio equipment he uses (you want your's to be compatible so you can "buddy box" (connect your radio with his for instruction), buy your TRAINER and equipment, join the AMA and then the club.

The AMA website has a page where you can find local clubs by plugging in your Zip Code. AMA membership at your age is only about $1.00 per year if you don't care about the monthly magazine, and most clubs offer price breaks for younger members.

Futaba is a brand of radio equipment, as are JR, Airtronics and Hitec. Not all radio equipment is compatible with each other.

Expect to spend between $400 and $450 for a NEW ARF trainer, engine, radio equipment (transmitter, receiver, servos, battery packs, charger and switch harness), and necessary field equipment like fuel, fuel pump, 3 feet of fuel line, a glow igniter with charger, power panel, electric starter for the engine, 12 volt battery (for the starter) and 12 volt charger.

If you check out the field first ask about used equipment. Quite often you can pick up a used trainer with engine and radio for $150 to $250. Well worth it when starting out.

Good luck, and welcoem to RCUniverse and the GREAT worls of RC flying!!
Dennis-