Simon,

Don,t give up so easily like the other fella is tring to tell you, or your going to miss out badly! I had a very similar start as you only I had two planes' fly away' on me

I started with the firebird xl I put the wings and tail of the fighterbird on it, it made it more agile for turning and so on then I lost that, but before I lost it I had some brilliant flights with it, and it was my fault I lost it, because I'd learnt a lot by then and just got a little bit over confident with it.I then got the firebird commander, but again I put the wings and tail of the fighter bird on it, I've still got it. You can fly in some quite windy conditions when you've learnt a bit. I've now also got the Aerobird which is the step up from the plane youv'e had only with three channels, but what I'm tring to tell you is stick with it you will be glad you did, also when I lost my planes if you phone RIPMAX up, (the phone number is in the manual) they will do you a deal if you send in the transmitter, chargers, in the box they will send you a brand new plane for £50.00, they did with me twice! so go on give it another shot!!!

Regards Dave Roberts