It is just as important to have someone train him on RC as it is in the full scale. He wouldn't just climb in and fly it, why try on a model. You might consult him and see if it is something he is interested in so you don't waste a bunch of money. If he is actually interested in RC, get him a good trainer like the Eagle 63 or Sig LT-40 and get him a good club to fly with and instructor to help set him up right. There is a lot of time dedication to this hobby, if he isn't that interested, he will never build the plane and you will be out a lot of money. It is a great hobby though if he is really interested enough to spend a bunch of time with it.