Just re-read your post and spotted the budget, I reckon your in the coaxial or quad copter price range there.
Here is a place to talk to
ZeeJays, very good people to deal with they are online shopping only I think in your area so delivery would be fast, but give them a call on the contact info they are the best to deal with and will talk to you no probs.
This link is one of the quad copters in the brand name I mentioned and spot on for price ready to fly, would be the way to go.
http://www.zeejayhobbies.com.au/inde...productId=6765
One other thing that is important, as he has been a pilot before you should get a (Mode 2) transmitter with the kit as it has the throttle and rudder on the left stick and aileron and elevator on the right stick. It will seem more natural for him to fly that way as it's more like a joy stick in a real plane.