Frost,

Don't go for a small plane like the minipiper. Get a .40 size plane with a .46 size engine (for takeoff in the spring when the grass is a little long) and a good 4 chanel radio. That minipiper looks more like a park flier. A nice R/C ARF trainer (with compitent instructor) will get you going, and God willing, last you several years.

Just a thought.