BD-12
In 1995, American designer Jim Bede, attempting to retain the original order for the Monitor Jet MJ-7 “Bede Jet,” developed a two-seater variant of the popular BD-5 light aircraft. The new aircraft, designated BD-12, was a composite low-wing monoplane with streamlined contours.
Design and Performance
The BD-12 was equipped with a 100 hp (75 kW) four-cylinder Continental O-200A engine. Additionally, a 150 hp four-cylinder Lycoming O-320 engine could be used as a standard powerplant.
Equipped with the 150 hp engine, the BD-12 could achieve a maximum speed of 346 kilometers per hour and fly a distance of nearly 1300 kilometers.
Production Ambitions and Fate
The aircraft was being prepared for release as a kit-set. Bede also planned to start production of a four-seater version, the BD-14. However, the BD-12 did not generate significant interest.
In 1997, investors once again declared Jim Bede bankrupt. The two-seater project naturally did not develop, and the four-seater aircraft remained only in drawings. Currently, BedeCorp owns the development rights.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | BD-12 |
| Wingspan, m | 7.01 |
| Aircraft length, m | 6.55 |
| Aircraft height, m | 2.39 |
| Wing area, m2 | 8.64 |
| Empty weight | 308 |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 594 |
| Fuel, l | 140 |
| Engine type | 1 Piston engine Lycoming O-320 |
| Power, hp | 1 x 150 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 346 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 322 |
| Practical range, km | 1287 |
| Rate of climb, m/s | 564 |
| Practical ceiling, m | 6400 |
| Crew | 2 |
Image and diagram gallery of the BD-12
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ArchivoAéreo Editorial Team
A group of aviation researchers and enthusiasts dedicated to documenting and preserving global aeronautical history. All articles are reviewed to ensure historical accuracy.
Sources & Accuracy
The information presented in this technical sheet has been compiled from declassified flight manuals, historical archives, and specialized literature. While we strive for maximum accuracy, some performance data may vary depending on the specific variant or operational conditions.