Flying is a lot like a video game except there is no reset button!

Seriously, you will not crash with an instructor. Once up in the air and "a few mistakes high" flying is not that hard, and there is plenty of time for your instructor to take over control if you really lose it. Landings and take-offs can be hairy for a beginner (like me!) but after enough practice time in the air you will have enough feel for the plane to get it up and down pretty safely.

The buddy-box system is great! I have only been flying since the summer but I have had no problems letting inexperienced family members try flying on the buddy box with me as the "instructor".