Is there someone at your field that you can try out a trainer or some electric foamy thing, just to see how your skills are? I'm actually jealous since I'm just starting to go inverted on my trex450, I am finding heli's much more difficult then fixed wings. Before starting with a pattern plane, ie. thin airfoil, why not try with Hanger 9's twist? It's a thicker airfoil which allows slower landing speeds before stalling and isn't all that expensive, not to mention can take some abuse. But first try out a trainer or something that you may be able to buddy box on before, at least with your heli skills you know all about the rudder and throttle management, just remember that planes don't have a negative pitch!! </p>