Bede BD-2


The Bede BD-2 was an American experimental powered sailplane designed by Jim Bede to attempt an unrefuelled round-the-world flight.

Development

The BD-2 was a modified Schweizer SGS 2-32 fitted with a specially modified Continental IO-360-C engine. The BD-2 could carry 565 US gallons of fuel in wing and fuselage tanks, and the modified engine produced only 30 hp during the cruise part of the flight.
The BD-2 made its first flight from Wichita on March 12, 1967. Between November 7 and 10, 1969, the aircraft set a world closed-circuit flight distance record for piston-engined aircraft, in which it covered 8,973.38 miles in 70 hours 15 minutes. The flight had to be stopped following a complete electrical failure, and no further record flights were attempted by Bede.
The BD-2 was modified by Javelin Aircraft of Wichita as the Phoenix, which was used by Jerry Mullens to set a new closed-circuit record for piston aircraft on December 5–8, 1981 of 10,070 mi in 73 h 2 min, which was also the longest non-refueled flight made by a solo pilot at the time.

Specifications (Phoenix)