RC Kid> First of all, tell your friend that R/C planes are not toys. The concept of flying an R/C plane is similar to that of flying a full-scale. Many newcomers still ignore this concept and give up the hobby after their first attempt. The point is that you need to know some basic aerodynamics in order to fly and control a model airplane in the air, but it isn't like throwing a tennis ball.
I recommend your friend to start with the following models:

GWS Slow Stick (easy, but flight instruction is recommended for the first flight)

Aerobird by Hobbyzone (flight instruction is required; the plane can't turn well at slow speed)

T-Hawk (very good, but instruction may be required)

Firebird Outlaw (very easy, no instruction is required but you may loose it quickly!!) This twin-motor aircraft has a good reputation compared to others twin-motor flying toys for the same cost.


I vote for the T-Hawk and slow stick