ORIGINAL: Firehawk153
Wow! Thank you guys so much for all the responses. I didn't know that there were available resources for finding instructors; I'll definatley look into that. As for the aircraft, I took a look at the nexstar .40 and that looks like it would be better for me than the Alpha; mainly because the simulator would allow me to practice as much as I can on my own.
Also, What about an electric trainer that was similar to the Nexstar or Alpha? Could I use that to get used to flying a plane with ailerons and more complex controls, but at a more manageable electric-aircraft speed? Or would it be better to buy something like the Nexstar or Alpha and pay an instructor?
I really can not recommend the NexStar.
IMHO, it is very over priced considering you can D/L a free simulator from FMS
http://n.ethz.ch/student/mmoeller/fms/index_e.html All you need to add is a $15 cable from your joystick or transmitter to the computer. FMS IS A PRETTY GOOD SIM.
The next thing I object to with the NexStar is their AFS.
All this will do is teach you bad habits. For instance, the plane gets in trouble. You "let go of the sticks ?" to correct the problem - I don't think so.
In addition the AFS WILL fight you on all your movements. The people who have the NexStar typically wind up taking the thing out. Now you have paid a premium price for a gimmick.
By some careful shopping, for the same money (or less ) you can get a 6 channel COMPUTER radio, a decent ARF trainer and a USER FRIENDLY ball bearing 46 engine.
Stick with the Alpha. It is a very good trainer.