BF-1 Beija-Flor

The Aircraft Department (PAR) of the Brazilian Research Institute (I.P.D.) built three prototypes of a small, two-seat light helicopter, originally designed by Professor Henrich Focke. The first prototype, designated I.P.D. BF-1 Beija-Flor, took flight on January 1, 1959, but did not enter series production.

Brazil’s Pioneer Helicopter

The BF-1 became the first helicopter designed, built, and flown in Brazil. The helicopter was constructed and tested under the aegis of the Center for Aeronautical Technology (CTA); in some sources, it is referred to as the CTA Beija-Flor.

Innovative Design and Market Challenges

The unusual feature of the BF-1 helicopter was its power plant: a Continental E225 piston engine delivering 225 hp (168 kW) with six horizontally opposed cylinders. The engine was situated in the extensive nose section, driving a three-bladed main rotor through a shaft system that proved too heavy. Flight performance suffered as a result, and the helicopter could not find its niche in a market already dominated by “Bell” and “Hiller” companies.

Technical Specifications

Modification	BF-1
Main rotor diameter, m	9.00
Length, m	8.75
Height, m	3.15
Empty weight	700
Maximum takeoff weight	950
Engine type	1 Piston engine Continental E225
Power, hp	1 x 225
Maximum speed, km/h	160
Cruising speed, km/h	140
Practical range, km	270
Practical ceiling, m	3500
Crew, crew members	2

Image and diagram gallery of the BF-1 Beija-Flor

BF-1 Beija-Flor	BF-1 Beija-Flor
BF-1 Beija-Flor	BF-1 Beija-Flor
BF-1 Beija-Flor	BF-1 Beija-Flor
BF-1 Beija-Flor	BF-1 Beija-Flor
BF-1 Beija-Flor	BF-1 Beija-Flor
BF-1 Beija-Flor	BF-1 Beija-Flor