Zlin526. .I understand you argument and it is certainly true that with a more advanced aeroplane newcomers are able to make a good stab at a sequence with less practice. However, I disagree that it will be pretty much faultless (and here I am mainly referring to competition flying) - you still need to have all the same knowledge about how to make a loop round, for instance, and how to position the aeroplane (for the judges); indeed, positioning the aeroplane can be a big problem in these faster types for the inexperienced pilot. Take a look at BAeA competition results - the placings are by no means dominated by pilots flying the advanced monoplanes.. .Furthermore, it is simply not the case that you can walk into advanced and unlimited if you have the right aeroplane. Because these sequences are so much more demanding , the performance of the aeroplane is being tested as much at these levels as for a 526 at standard or intermediate. So you really do need to have to have mastered the basic skills to deal with this. I agree entirely that the best way to do this is by starting off flying a lower performance aeroplane such as those you mention.