Bede BD-5T

The BD-5 was sold in kit form starting in the 1970's. Early Bede-5's had 33 hp Hirth 2-stroke snowmobile engine driving the pusher propeller, while some had Honda Civic engines, and some had small jet engines (BD-5J). This particular aeroplane is unusual for having a turbine engine driving the propeller (BD-5T). The engine is a Solar T-62T-2AI turbine that originally provided auxiliary power for a Boeing Chinook helicopter. The service hatch has been replaced with perspex for display purposes.
This BD-5 is displayed here with modified short wings. It was difficult to fly with the short wings, and so a longer wing option was available. The wings quickly detach for storage.