I think the it's a great plane. I am still on the buddy box, but it has still been a lot of fun. I have progressed on it quite nicely I believe. According to my instructor, I will be flying solo as soon as this weekend. I have had flown the plane the last three Sundays with a total of 7 flights will be flying solo by this weekend maybe. What more could a man ask for. Granted I will not be an award winning 3D pilot, but I should at least be able to take off and land decently on my own. As far as the orientation issues, I haven't had the first bit of trouble. All I have is fun with this great plane, and I would highly recommend this plane to any newcomer.