BD-5J Bede
Crew Chief: Ed Nelson
The BD-5J Bede at the Pacific Coast Air Museum.
BD-5J Bede Specifications
| Country of Origin: | USA |
| Manufacturer: | Bede Aircraft Corp (Homebuilt) |
| B/N or Serial Number: | 4174 |
| Type: | Bede BD-5J |
| Accommodation: | Pilot |
| Powerplant: | Microturbo TRS-18 Turbojet engine, 325 lbs thrust |
| Performance: | Max speed 300 mph, Range 300+miles, Service Ceiling 23,000 feet, Rate of Climb 4,000 ft/min |
| Weights: | Empty weight 358 lb, loaded 700-1100 lbs |
| Dimensions: | Length 12’, Wingspan 17’, Height 5’ 2” |
BD-5J Bede History
The BD-5J is the jet version of the original BD-5 propeller aircraft. It holds the record as the smallest jet aircraft. The aircraft featured a Microturbo jet engine. This aircraft type was featured in the James Bond movie “Octopussy”.This aircraft was sold as a kit for an owner to build and fly. There were over 5,000 Bede kits sold for all models, but currently there are only about 150 BD-5s in airworthy condition.
The Pacific Coast Air Museum received this aircraft partially built. Our crew finished building the aircraft and it is on display at the museum without an engine.
