WOW!!! Interesting topic. Of course the model industry relies on the sale of "kits" /"planes" the more they sell the more profit. It is, perhaps going to bite them sooner or later. I have met a few people that have tried to learn on tier own with bad results. Some have just given up due to the cost of replacement airplanes, others finaly sought help form a RC'er with some experience. I have told many people they could learn on their own, if they have enough money to keep buying ill flying , low cost junk airplanes.. You wouldn't walk out to the local airport and jump into a Cub or Decathalon and take to the air without instruction nor should you do the same with a miniature aircraft. I would hope the local hobby shop people realize that a "happy customer" will return again and again, but a disatified customer is a one time shot....Maybe the people at Hobby Zone, for one, needs to be reminded of this... Just my two cents worth.