ORIGINAL: planebuilder66
ARF's were made to try and increase the sport by making it easier for people to get into the hobby, as we've all noticed, anybody can show up at the field with a nice looking plane. But many times I've seen these arf's put together so badly that I'm running for safety when they try and fly it. The general rule of thumb is if you learn to build, then you know how to fix as well, but many arf owners would rather find a trash can than a work bench. I unfortunitly ended up repairing the downed aircraft for the few that wanted to see it fly again. After I fixed the planes, I would ask them if they wanted to build a kit, usually the response was "too much work" or "why?, when I can buy this for almost the same cost", but most of the planes I fixed were crashed because of poor manufacturing or poor assembly. The cost of a kit being high doesn't bother me too much, at least I know it will stay together for many years to come and it'll be a one of a kind at the field.
ARF's were made because someone believed they could make money in it.

Dollers and cents issue. When more people believe they can make more money in kits You will see more kits. Just that simple!
john