It doesn't really matter to me how a plane gets built, especially for new pilots. Some guys really like to build and work with their hands, and others don't. Some are good at it and others aren't. A young pilot in my club has phenomenal talent with the sticks and is very careful with his planes. But he'll probably never build one. He can't even assemble an ARF; his dad does it for him. But he's having a blast with the hobby and becoming very proficient in his flying. What's important is not so much how the plane got built, but rather that it be a good airframe that is suitable for teaching a new pilot how to fly and equipped with adequate hardware, engine, and radio gear.

I did make a sticky about beginner plane characteristics at the top of the forum. I'd value everyone's input.

Of course it matters how the plane got built.

As an instructor, I see planes every year that are not at all airworthy - very poor construction. How were they built? Very poorly with no understanding of the requirements for any flight, safe or otherwise. Some are ARF assemblies, some are builds.

It also depends on what this hobby is for you. If it's only operating an aircraft in the air, fine. Any ARF, even one assembled by your parent, will do fine. If your interest is aeromodeling, then there is no place for an ARF since that does not engage you in modeling. Building does.

You're right do335a, but the point jester was making was that it doesn't matter if it's a kit build or an ARF so long as it's a well constructed aircraft with the proper characteristics for a trainer.