Stephen Waldron...in answer to your question(s)...yes, there is an "all around" aircraft that fits the air-to-air and air-to-ground role, takes out Bombers (all types, including AR234s) very nicely, and fits into the CV role as well; it's the F4U Series of aircraft. In my few years of playing Aces High I have never been deprived via ENY of an F4U-1. However, I would not, and do not recommend this series of aircraft for Folks who are just beginning Aces High.
Many good suggestions have been made in this thread for new Folks just starting out in Aces High.