Wed, Jan 05, 2005
New Company, INFLight, Will Offer Kits Later This Month
American Aviation Company (AAC),
Bede Corporation (BD) and Xtreme Alternative Defense Systems (XADS)
have joined forces to offer new life to the BD-5 Aircraft first
offered by Jim Bede in the 1970s’and made popular by the
movie "Octopussy."
The BD-5 sold over 3000 kits in a little more than a decade and
fast became the most popular kit aircraft in American History.
There are over 400 web sites dedicated to the BD-5 worldwide. It is
impossible to talk with the aviation enthusiast who’s
unfamiliar with this small, fast and dependable aircraft.
During the 70s’ and 80s’, pilots faced challenges
finding an engine that could perform adequately in the BD-5 and
provide for years of enjoyment. Once a completed kit was ready, an
automotive engine with very low TBO often powered it. Knowing that
an auto engine was less than desirable, owners stored their
aircraft until a viable engine was available. That time has
come!
In September of 2004, AAC, BD and XADS agreed to develop an
engine solution for the thousands of kit owners who dreamed of one
day flying the BD-5. Since that time a new engine has been selected
and is being fit to the aircraft. "All signs point to a great
solution for BD-5 owners around the world." According to AAC CEO
Brian Tanner. "We fully intend to have the engine mod kits
available by April, in time for the 2005 air show season."
The new company, INFLight, Inc., will offer the engine mod kit
starting in late January in order to let kit owners reserve an
engine early. While more than 50 engine mod kits are expected to
ship by April 2005, it is expected that engine kits will total more
than 200. The engine that is being offered for current BD-5 owners
will also be the engine used in the new BD-5XL to debut later in
the year. Pilots and owners can place their order with a 20%
deposit and the balance on shipment. All new drawings and specs
will be included with the engine, along with an instructional video
to aid in the installation. AAC will offer technical help for
pilots and owners in the event that questions arise.
INFlight, Inc. will be introducing a new composite version of
the aircraft (BD-5 XL) in late 2005. The BD-5XL will be a
refreshing new twist on the BD-5 with plenty of new upgrades. One
new upgrade will include the two-seat version, and ballistic Chute.
AAC, BD and XADS will all have information posted on their web
sites regarding the BD-5 re-release and a new website for INFLight,
Inc. will debut in summer 2005. For additional information and
ordering details you can contact the following:
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