RCKen is quite correct. While flying a trainer around on a buddy box may appear easy, I can assure you there is plenty more to learn. I can't count the number of times that a new pilot has come to the field with a plane that is totally out of their capabilities to fly, just because they didn't like the looks of trainers or didn't WANT to be a beginner. If they try and fly these planes the results are very predictable.[]

I am a licensed pilot and have flown full scale for 42 years. I also use the Microsoft Flight Simulator as an Instrument practice trainer (cheaper than using FAA certified ones...LOL). I can tell you that full scale aircraft, with a few exceptions are slow and the controls are sluggish compared to our R/C planes. Flying "IN" the cockpit is a far different perception than "FROM" the ground. You don't have control disorientation with full scale either.

It is far easier to teach an R/C pilot to fly full scale than it is to teach full scale pilots to fly R/C! We used to have an Air Force KC-135 tanker pilot from Grissom AFB with thousands of hours to his credit come to our field for lessons to fly R/C. He told us that he had flown all over the world and was very proficient at flying, but when he would fly his R/C trainer, he was more nervous with it than anything he had ever flown. His knees would knock and the antenna would vibrate....LOL.

Do yourself a favor and learn to fly a little at a time. It will save you money and you will learn to acquire the skills that you will need to fly the models that you WANT to fly later. After all, full scale pilots don't learn in F-16's or B-747's. Take time to enjoy the hobby! It will be well worth it.

Rod