I hope you get lots of replies/advice to your thread. I think your best bet is the help that you can get through your local flying club. Most experienced fliers are happy to lend a hand to a new and interested person. Guys with a few years experience have a lot of knowledge and can set you straight on all that you need to know about trainer planes, radios, flying, etc. I'm partial to Hangar 9 trainer ARFs or Goldberg Eagle 2 ARF (real beauty in ALL respects) but Your local guys could tell you more. If you make some head way and want to get into this fascinating hobby get someone experienced to teach you to fly with a buddy box. I hope you get all the friendly help a "newbie" should get. Drop me a line anytine. [email protected]