Hi Ed,
Switching from kites to planes? I'm considering getting back into it again after about 25 years. If you have the time and like to put models together then find a full build kit. In this fast paced gotta have it now world, slowing down to build a plane can be very relaxing. If you think you might really get into soaring then I suggest getting a quality 4-6 channel radio set-up with elevon mixing for when you get into the v-tails. These days many radios allow multiple plane programming. You may not use all 4-6 channels but it may come in handy if you get into powered planes. Personally, I just picked up a Carl Goldberg Electra with motor off of eBay for $30 including shipping. I probably won't start it until after Christmas sometime as I'm hoping to talk my significant other into getting me the radio. Oh, I'm also still into kites. I have a feeling this coming year is going to get expensive.

Ron

Ron