Paula,

The Tower Hobbies brand 46 and larger engines are made by the GMS factory in China. They tend to be among the most powerful 46's, and many people are very happy with them, especially at their attractive price. The only issue I am aware of (which may be resolved by now) was a problem with airleaks at the carb, preventing the engine from being shut down easily. I don't think it was all samples of them, but it did seem to be a fairly common complaint with the GMS 47 and Tower 46. You can do a search here in the engine forum to see if there is still a problem.

There may be less sinister reasons why the NC club wants people to start with flat bottom wing trainers. They are more docile typically, and they may have had problems at the club in the past with people trying to start with things a bit too advanced, causing damage to people or property, etc. so they drew the line someplace. I learned on a flat bottom winged trainer (Kadet LT40) and still have it, 20 planes later. It's a wonderful plane. However, you will advance more quickly with an Avistar. I suggestion that you ask the club president if it's okay to learn on an Avistar, specifically, if you are interested in that plane. Don't mention the wing. Surely the club president will be familiar with the Avistar.

Worst case, you can always buy another plane after you are accomplished with your flat bottom wing trainer, and sell it off, using the .46 in your next plane. Many people do just that!

Best of luck.