RE: Skyshark kit prices
Yes, like someone else mentioned: maybe they would like to make this a profitable business. Keep in mind: these kits are designed AND manufactred in the good ole U.S.A.. They simply cannot compete with 3rd world and communist labor costs.
And they (Skyshark) cannot afford to offer these kits without making a profit: they are not a charity.
I have a feeling that Top Flite is not making much money these day, and their days may be numbered. Like so many other great kit makers, they are suffering from the flood of imported ARFs.
SO, if you want to build a quality, U.S.A. made kit, I suggest you just 'bite the bullet'. From my experience, the cost of the kit is usually a relatively minor cost compared to the overall cost of the project anyways. Retracts and engines usually cost more (each) than the cost of the kit. Then add in all the the other stuff (radio, adhesives, finish, accessories and details, etc) the the kit will likely be about 1/5 or less of the total cost.