What aircraft was the Bede BD-2 based on?

Short answer

The Bede BD-2 was based on a modified Schweizer SGS 2-32. Jim Bede conceived it to attempt a round-the-world flight without in-flight refueling, with a specially modified Continental IO-360-C and 565 US gallons (2,138 liters) of fuel on board.

Published: November 4, 2026 · Updated: November 4, 2026 · Edited by Above Ten Thousand · Editorial policy

What aircraft was the Bede BD-2 based on?

Schweizer 2 32-01

The starting point: a Schweizer SGS 2-32

The Bede BD-2 was a modified Schweizer SGS 2-32. Jim Bede designed it to attempt a round-the-world flight without in-flight refueling. The airframe received a specially modified Continental IO-360-C. That modified engine delivered only 30 hp (22.4 kW) during the cruise portion of the flight. The aircraft could carry 565 US gallons (2,138 liters) of fuel in wing and fuselage tanks.

From first flight to record

The BD-2 first flew from Wichita on March 12, 1967. Between November 7 and 10, 1969, it set a world distance record for a closed circuit for piston-engined aircraft. On that flight it covered 8,973.38 miles (14,441.26 km) in 70 hours and 15 minutes. The flight had to be stopped after a total electrical failure.