One at a time. All my own opinions. Others may have more/better insight.

1. RTF or ARF and why? What's available that is really ready to fly (all components - open box and go)?

Depends. If the RTF comes with a quality radio/engine/whatever that you can use in future planes, it's a pretty good investment. Be aware RTFs usually come with 4 channel radios, and you'll want more if you stick with the hobby for future planes.

2. High wing, low wing or bi-wing and why?

High wing. More stability, easier to fly for a beginner.

3. Glow, fuel or electric motor and why? What size minimum? What size maximum?

Depends on your preference. I prefer glow. Fuel it up and fly. No waiting for expensive batteries to recharge.

4. Controller brand and why?

Everyone has their preference. The major contenders are all good; Futaba, JR, Hitec, Airtronics.

5. Controller minimum features (channels, etc.) and why?

4-6 to start with. 6 for anything that you want to eventually use in another plane.

6. Minimum wing spand and why? That is, very large scale or smaller - like 30" plus vs. 70" and larger and why?

A 40-60 size trainer is good. 60 size = larger, easier to see, more stable in wind, etc.

7. Trainer or other type and why?

Always best to start with a trainer. High-wing for stability, more dihedral for righting itself, etc.

8. Recommended minimum accessories to support and enjoy RTF or ARF?

Good glow fuel, glow starter, chicken stick or electric starter for glow, for electric, just need a charger and a few other little things.

9. Can you teach yourself and if not, why not?

Sure you could teach yourself, but you'll end up crashing and spending lots more money on new planes, engines etc. Best to go with an AMA chartered club with an instructor to minimize your chances of crashing and wasting money.

10. Anything else from an experienced person or experienced new person to provide me with a minimum learning curve?

Hook up with a club, talk to a few people, get their opinions on stuff. Ask questions here on RCU. 99% of the people here are very knowledgable and a great help. It's where I got my start and still get help almost every day.

My biggest tip is above: get a club, get an instructor, learn everything you can. It's a rewarding hobby if done right, frustrating and maddening if done wrong.

A 40-size ARF trainer with a .46 engine and 6 channel radio are your best bets to get started. All of the equipment can be used in future planes when you decide to move up. That's the avenue I took over getting an RTF, and I wouldn't have wanted it any other way. The radio flies all 4 of my planes, and the engine I started with has gone into another plane. It might be slightly more work to get everything together and flying, but it's worth it because it also teaches you how to assemble the plane.

My fourth plane I'm working on now is a kit and it's a lot of fun. Once you put one together from scratch, you'll have no problem repairing damage, etc.

My advice is to get with a club and instructor, start with a 40-size trainer, 46 engine (OS 46 AX, TT 46 Pro) and a good 6 channel radio, then learn with your instructor.