I am leaning towards purchasing a high-wing semi-symmetrical for a trainer. I have also considered a low-wing semi-symmetrical as I will be instructed on a buddy box. My question to you is, if I take a high-wing semi-symmetrical and a low-winged semi-symmetrical; given the same or close to it, wing loading; can I expect the 2 planes to perform simmimarily in the air?

If everything is the same except one plane is a high wing plane and the other is a low wing plane, you would probably not notice much difference in the two. However, rarely, if ever, are all other things the same; go with the high wing plane as your first trainer. It will probably be a bit more stable and easier to learn on than a low wing plane.

it's all piont and go...for beginners that wouldn't make a different.

it depends on the, club, instructor, and the pilot.
i tought my kid on an Ace 4-40..(mid wing), tail dragger
he didn't have any problems
or a choice in the matter. He wasn't bombared with information either.
kept him at 2-3 mistake high at cruzing speed and told him not
to touch the left stick.
didn't make him land or take off for a long time.
had him pratice the left stick without the wing.

when i join my club..i was told to get a trainer or else.lol
i at least i got an avistar
i wasn't allow to fly my supersporters

The high wing will have some self righting tendancys. The low wing won't. Otherwise there will be few differences. The high wing is a better chouce though. The gear is on the fuse and not in the wings. You can really beat a high wing's gear. The low wing ones aren't as forgiving. It is also easier to handle in the pits. It is just a better all around choice for a beginner. Good luck with it.

Mark Shuman

Agree with Mark, especially about the gear... Landing gear damage is MUCH easier to repair on the high wing model. Also, to get the same stability, the low wing airplane has more dihedral, which makes inverted flight more challenging...

Cheers!

Jim