49er

Is this plane replacing the Challanger? Are parts interchangable ? Same plane new Model ? One better for a first time flyer ?

ih8nixon

Yes the challenger is now discontinued. No, the aerobird 3 uses completely different electronics than the chalenger, but the tail and wing are the same. I'm not sure what your last question refers to, but I taught myself to fly 3 channel on a challenger and since the aerobird 3 is essentially an updated challenger I would assume it is a decent first plane if you do some modifications to strengthen it. The one thing i noticed though is that the aerobird 3 comes with a 7 cell 8.4V battery when I first started I preferred the 6 cell 7.2V battery since it made the plane handle in a more docile manner.

Swift427

Pusher prop recommended for first time flyer is the Wing Dragon.
Now reduced to $89 ~ [link]http://www.hobby-lobby.com/wingdragon.htm[/link]

Aerobird 3 uses a V-tail ruddevator--can be more challenging.
Most planes like 3D foamies have traditional elevator & rudder control.
WingDragon uses rudder and elevator--preferred setup for learning the basics.

Swift427

Interesting info for building your own beginner foamy pusher prop airplane.
[link]http://www.stenulson.net/rcflight/beagle.htm[/link]
[link]http://www.stenulson.net/rcflight/slimbeag.htm[/link]