What is a good second or third model to fly after I have soloed on a Trainer?

Question: What is a good second or third model after I have soloed on a Trainer?

Answer: Probably the best choice would be to move from the high wing flat bottom airfoil type of trainer you learned on to a high wing model with a semi-symmetrical wing.

Better Answer: It really depends on many things and there are lots opinions to listen to on this. We recommend that your second model be a high wing model with a semi-symmetrical wing and trike landing gear. You could go to a high wing semi-symmetrical tail dragger if you are flying from long grass or a rough field.

If you want to make a bit of a leap, move directly from your high wing trainer with a flat bottom wing to a semi-symmetrical low wing model with trike gear. We do not recommend going to a low wing tail dragger when you move to your first low wing model. Too much change all at once. A low wing model requires a different set of flying skills and a tail dragger can be a bit challenging when it comes to ground handling. Best to tackle your challenges one at a time.

Ideally we recommend the following sequence of VMAR models...

  1. First Model - High Wing, Flat Bottom Wing, Trike Gear, at least 60 inch wing span.
    • Apache or Discovery or Challenger
  2. Second Model - High Wing, Semi-Symmetrical Wing, Trike Gear, at least 60 inch wing span.
    • Stinger or Hornet
  3. Third Model - Low Wing, Semi-Symmetrical Wing, Trike Gear, at least 60 inch wing span.
    • Escape or RamRod
    • Subaru (semiscale model of a real aircraft... has all the characteristics of a good low wing trainer along with semiscale appearance of a good looking aircraft)