Try to pick up a used airplane if you can. It is possible to get something like a Focus or Focus 2 with everything but the motor and receiver for $1500.00 or less. Sometimes a lot less. Just have to be in the right place at the right time. The best time to buy is toward the end of the season when guys are ordering their new planes for next season. Keep in mind, most pattern planes last a LONG time. 300 flights is considered almost new. For 402 or 403 you don't need the latest / greatest design. A Focus is more than up to the task.

John Pavlick