Hi Hillary -- nice to hear the progress report. I agree with most of smokingcraters comments, but I will offer a counter proposal -- Go with the glo-engine models (Avistar/Nexstar), they offer a much broader range of flight capabilities & if he really gets the bug (most likely the case), they will take him much farther. If money is a serious issue (it often is), get the Avistar -- it is somewhat cheaper & more fun to fly, although a bit more touchy in its handling -- kind of a trainer hot-rod. The Nexstar is a serious training package, with a simulator & a very comprehensive array of aerodynamic training aids. It is easier to fly & will give him a better chance of success with glo-engine models, but it is not an exciting ride in its stock form.

Both the Avistar & Nexstar can be easily modified later on, and can be made into really exciting airplanes that an owner will keep for years (assuming survival).