The WTs, since they have the same basic frame, have the same max altitude of about... 19000? I'm not sure, at full thrust, it spins at 18k, it takes quite a bit of thrust management to hit 20k. They can't really handle high altitudes because of the 1 intake to 1 jet engine ratio. Yes, use the avionics to hold the plane stable, very useful while climbing. About the landing gear, you can move them forward to let the plane take off while on the runway.