They can fly higher than you can see them. How much runway depends on the plane/engine combo. I sincerely hope you have contacted a local club about getting help to learn how to do this. You are NOT likely to be successful on your own. For your first plane I recommend a high wing trainer with a semi-symmetrical airfoil, Like the Kangke Astro or the Avistar. Try to get a package deal on the plane and engine, its usually cheaper than buying one at a time. You should also get a radio with trainer box connections, I recommend something that is Futaba compatible {HITEC, Tower Hobbies, Futaba} because most clubs already have a buddy box of this type. Airtronics and JR are very good radios but most clubs don't have a box for these systems. Join the AMA, follow the rules, and fly at sanctioned fields. Never turn on your transmitter if you are closer than 5 miles to a field, You may cause the crash of somebody's plane.