I have an Avistar, and I would have to say I had a very similar experience as yours. It was an RTF, but it came out of the box setup nearly perfect. I have a few minor complains about the quality of the construction (wrinkled covering, large hinge gaps), but overall I am very happy with the plane. If I had it to do over I would have gone the ARF route since I think I would like a slightly more powerful engine, and a better radio. I have replaced the radio, and might upgrade the engine later.

As far as wind goes, it handles great in the wind. You get a little rocking around with a cross wind, but nothing even a newbie like me couldn't handle. I actually put two flights on it Sunday after that storm blew through the east cost. We were having winds gusting up to 15 MPH, and it wasn't a problem. I am approaching 30 flights on this plane, and I like it as much now as I did with the first flight.

Now lining up on the runway so I don't land in the rough...Well that is another story.

Glad to see you like the Hanger 9 plane just as much. I have been looking at their planes lately, and really like what I see. I have been eying an Ultra Stick as a possible upgrade to my Avistar.

Keep us informed on what your father things of the plane!