what to buy

My husband is retired AF and used to work on aircraft. He's talked for years about rc planes but was always too cheap to get started. I'd like to get him something for Christmas but I'm not sure which type to begin with. With his level of aircraft experience, I don't know that a beginner plane is the way to start.
Any ideas?
Thanks,
Amy

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what to buy

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Oct 01, 2011
 Re: what to buy
by: Pete

Hi Amy - it's best that he does start with a beginner-friendly rc plane; I used to fly full size and I can say from personal experience that flying a radio control plane is a whole different thing! His knowledge of aircraft will help with the technical side of the hobby, but not really with the flying.
Have a look through the beginner rc airplanes page for some ideas. The HobbyZone Super Cub LP is a very popular choice, as is the smaller Champ, and the larger 4 channel E-flite Apprentice 15e. These are all good trainers with a proven track record.
If he's planning on teaching himself to fly then a 3 channel plane is simpler to fly than a 4 channel one, but plenty of beginners do learn on a 4 channel plane without too much trouble.
You'll need to get a 'RTF' package, or 'Ready To Fly' - this is the easiest way of getting started and all you need is included in the box.
Feb 25, 2012
 What to buy
by: Daniel

Hello Amy. For a first plane, you should get a 3 channel plane (throttle, rudder, elevator). Also, nothing too big - micro planes are the best. Parkzone makes many micro planes, and some are great for beginners. Size actually has a large effect on morale.
A large plane is much more intimidating to fly and requires more space. My first plane was a Parkzone Ember. It is small, very light, and easy to fly. Also it is cheap.
No matter what plane you get, get the RTF version, because others(BNF, ARF, PNP) require purchase of seperate equipment. Also, don't get a scale model, since they are generally more hard to fly, though the Super Cub defies this trend. Also, a flight sim is very useful.

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