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The BD-2 was a specially built airplane to demonstrate and establish world distance records. It was developed by having a Schweizer 2 32 airplane modified in specific manner. The wings were completely sealed to hold a large quantity of fuel. Special wing tip were developed and two main fuselage tanks permitted a total fuel capacity of 2100 litres. The BD-2 set numerous distance records and one for maximum close course record beating a B-29. This aircraft was flown on the record flight for 70 hours solo by Jim Bede.
| CREW | 1 |
| ENGINE | 1 x Cont. IO-360C, 155kW |
| WEIGHTS |
| Take-off weight | 2400 kg | 5291 lb |
| Empty weight | 885 kg | 1951 lb |
| DIMENSIONS |
| Wingspan | 19.2 m | 62 ft 12 in |
| Length | 8.4 m | 27 ft 7 in |
| Wing area | 17.8 m2 | 191.60 sq ft |
| PERFORMANCE |
| Max. speed | 312 km/h | 194 mph |
| Range w/max.fuel | 45800 km | 28460 miles |
ed.hart@comcast.net, 27.01.2007
I was living in Columbus at the time of the first flight. I remember seeing a scary film of the takeoff. I seem to recall a liftoff, a jarring settling, another lift and a quick jettison of the undercarriage that seemed to make the slight difference that allowed it to stay airborne. It looked like he was weaving through the trees as he departed the area. Has that film been preserved?
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Do you have any comments concerning this aircraft ?
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