Don't dismiss electric park/slow flyers. I've been in RC for about 40 years and have flown all types of fixed wing planes: glow, electric and sailplanes.

I have a GWS Tigermoth slow flyer and it is the easiest flying plane I've ever had. It is totally relaxing to fly. It flies very, very slowly which will give a beginner plenty of time to react. You can easliy hand launch this plane if you have no runway. It doesn't need much, it will take of in about 5-10 feet from a smooth surface.

As for batteries, I'm using 300 mah NiMH packs that get nearly 10 minutes at about half to two thirds throttle. Get two of these and charge one while flying the other. You will, however, be limited to flying in dead-calm weather with this plane.

This is probably one of your best bets for success if you are totally on your own. Otherwise, like the others here, I advise you to find someone who can help.


Good luck.