This BD-5B conversion features the same turbine powerplant system used in BMT's FLIGHTLINE Series (FLS) BD-5T kit. The FLS BD-5T utilizes a tightly integrated powerplant system featuring a 95 hp gas turbine engine and a propriatory variable pitch, mechanically acutuated, three-blade propeller.

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Testing will be conducted on a second generation propeller blade used in the Turboprop configuration BD-5T. Propeller blades are the key element in converting power into forward motion, and their design governs overall aircraft performance and efficiency. Projected performance figures include a top speed of 200+ mph, and a climb rate of 2,500+ feet per minute. This program will consist of ground based static testing, taxi tests and flight tests. Data generated from this program will be used to determine normal and emergency operating procedures, aircraft limitations and flight characteristics, and to setup performance profiles. Additionally, Scott Rider and Robert Donatz will use data gathered from additional airframe experiments in reduced drag to develop airflow analysis software for the BD-5 aircraft.

Initial test flights will be performed by Lt. Colonel Rich Perkins, USAF. In addition to his degree in Aerospace Engineering, Perkins has nearly 5,000 hours flying time in the supersonic T-38, the C-130 Hercules and the infamous U-2 spy plane, among nearly 50 other civilian aircraft. Additionally, Perkins is an owner and the Chief Pilot for Attitude Aviation, advanced aerobatics flight school, Livermore, CA. As the largest aerobatic and taildragger flight school on the west coast, Attitude Aviation features flight instruction from Private through ATP, basic through advanced aerobatic instruction, Emergency Maneuver Training and Formation Flight Training. Located on the south side of Livermore Muni Airport, they can be reached at (925) 456-2276. Tell 'em BD-Micro sent you!

Following initial flights, the owner of this BD-5T, Major Mell Nolley, USMC (Ret.), will also perform flight tests and demonstrations. Nolley currently operates a Beechcraft King-Air twin turboprop commuter aircraft at his home on the island of St. Lucia in the West Indies. During his 20+ years with the Marine Corps, Nolley piloted an F-4 Phantom fighter. While with the Marines, he completed missions in Vietnam, and operated the F-4 from aircraft carriers. Later this year, in a series of flights Nolley will ferry N50TX from the Pacific Northwest to his home on the island of St. Lucia in the West Indies.

Rider is an Engineering Manager at Intel Corp., Hillsboro, OR, a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) and President of EAA Chapter 105, Hillsboro, OR. He is the proud owner of a Grumman AA-1B Yankee (pictured in background).

Donatz is a Manufacturing Development Engineer with Precision Interconnect, Portland, OR. He is a member of EAA Chapter 105, Hillsboro, OR, and has 20 years flying experience in 25 types, including helicopters, antiques, classics, and business twins. Donatz is a CFI currently offering flight Instruction and commercial pilot services, including corporate assignments, ferry services, sightseeing, banner tow and skydivers. He can be reached at (503) 589-8479, or via e-mail robertdz@worldnet.att.net.