I learned to fly in windy conditions so I'm not bothered by it. I learned quickly how to manipulate the rudder and ailerons especially in crosswinds. I was also flying a SIG Kadet ARF, which is a lightweight plane that’s easily buffeted by the wind. It all depends on what you get used to. If you only fly on calm days then you will only be able to fly on calm days.

A trainer plane isn’t all that expensive so if you wreak it beyond repair you’re not out that much. Engines are surprisingly tough and usually aren’t damaged in a crash. The prop may break but they’re cheap. If the radio gear is wrapped in foam properly it will also escape damage in most cases. You may lose a servo, but on a trainer plane you’re only talking ten or twelve bucks to replace it.

Another option as mentioned earlier is to build a SPAD. The Debonair SPAD is a 40-sized trainer that excluding engine and radio gear will only cost you about $25 to build. And this will give you enough material to build two planes. Plus, you can go from raw material to airborne in just two or three days. It weighs in at around six or seven pounds and handles wind very well. It also handles ground contact better than a balsa plane.

Wilbur and Orville didn’t let fear keep them from trying.