How much harder is it to fly a .40 gas trainer then from the gws formosa. (aerobatic parkflyer)

I can't say about the glow powered trainer as I have never flown one. I flew elecs for about three years and went directly from the elecs ( including the Formosa ) to a mid wing 40 size aerobat ( Global Freestyle 3D ). To me, the Freestyle was actually easier to fly than the Formosa. Has a much more " solid " feel. The one thing you might have trouble getting used to is the speed increase. It depends quite a bit on your experience. One bit of advice I will give, don't try it on your own. Lots of good people in this hobby that are happy to help.

Your learning curve would be very short compared to brand new flyers so if you wanted to go that route then I would suggest you get an advanced trainer such as an Hobbico Avistar. The main differences are speed and power and wind penetration and quicker reaction times to the sticks. The extra speed also means that the plane will react quicker than the park flyers but with your experience that shouldn't take you long to get used to. You will also be able to fly in moderate winds where your park flyers wouldn't stand a chance in. Do join a RC club however. Training is free and you can learn to fly safely and have the company of other RC pilots.
[8D]

Your transition should be very easy. I do suggest an instructor and a buddy box for the first couple of flights though.

Except for the ailerons, I think you will find it easier. You should be use to the ailerons in a couple of flights.

You will also need a couple of flights to get used to the higher speeds, especially the landing speeds and the faster response times than MOST electrics have.

Because the plane is larger, it is easier to see. Since the plane is going to weight AROUND 5 - 5 1/2 lbs it is going to handle wind A LOT BETTER than a foamie.

I would talk to an instructor BEFORE buying anything. If possible, have a flight or two on the club trainer. I STRONGLY feel that you may be able to go directly into an advanced trainer such as the Avistar or into a low wing such as the SIG 4*, Thunder Tiger II or World Models Rambler 30 or 45 (45 has retracts).

I have done what you want to do. I started with a Hangar 9 Arrow/w OS .46 AX engine. Flew on buddy cord with instructor for 4 flights and then solo'd. I can say that glow power for me is much more fun than electric. Things happen quicker with a 40 sized plane than a Formosa. However, you should have the basic feel for flying because of your experience in electric models.

Dave...

I'm wondering why the other responses assume you've flown that Formosa. My first thought was that you were deciding whether to buy electric or glow - as a first plane.

Is there more to the story?

Best wishes,
Dave Olson

No i have lots of flying experinces with electric park flyers