Dude, you need to take it easy. I'm pointing out the fact that the channels for the radio are not the same as the functions and if he has experience flying planes then I think he can handle a bit of complication, don't treat him like a total noob.

The 5 you listed can be considered functions but they are not the channels. There is no such thing as a pitch servo/channel as the pitch is done by mixing on the radio.

So yes, there are 5 functions and yes you need 5 channels.... happy?

BUT, don't confuse the guy saying that pitch is a channel because it's NOT! If he flew planes then I'm sure he can understand that there are 2 aileron servos.

In terms of channels, there are (using spektrum as an example):

1. Throttle
2. Aileron
3. Elevator
4. Rudder
5. Gear
6. Aux