BD-5J Bede

A group of schoolchildren wash a small Bede-5J jet aircraft as adults look on.

The Bede-5J is small. Really small. It is the world's smallest turbojet equipped aircraft. It's popular with the kids because it's just about their size.

Country of origin:

USA

Manufacturer:

Bede

B/N or Serial #::

4174

Type:

Single-seat civil sport aircraft

Ownership:

Pacific Coast Air Museum

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 it and it is on display at the museum without an engine.