World’s Smallest Manned Jet Aircraft Broke 25 Years Record

Creator Bu successfully developed and flew what is positioned to be the world smallest manned jet aircraft. This independent engineering project challenged a 25-year record previously held by the BD-5J microjet.

Credit: Aircraft Model Art魔界造物

The aircraft is smaller than both the BD-5J and the famous Cri-Cri. Bu designed the jet as a seaplane to use water surfaces as a safety buffer for the pilot.

The 100 kg aircraft utilises carbon fibre to maintain strict weight limits. Innovative 3D-printed technology was used to manufacture the engine mounts and surface connection hinges. A dual-engine redundant system provides safety during flight.

This system ensures a safe landing even if one miniature jet turbine experiences a flameout. Bu operates the flight control surfaces using a standard handheld remote control unit. This interface allows the pilot to fly the manned, jet-powered aircraft directly.

Aerodynamic stability was tested by strapping the jet to a vehicle roof on a 2,000-metre runway in Xiangxi, Hunan. The vehicle reached speeds exceeding 120 km/h to simulate flight conditions.

The small wing area of the aircraft demands a minimum flying speed of 100 km/h to generate lift. High speeds result in a low margin for error during takeoff and landing. During the manned trial, Bu maintained an altitude of approximately 10 metres. The pilot balanced the flight experience with the risks of high-altitude testing.

This achievement follows 10 years of building and crashing model aircraft. Bu plans to use this design as a step toward flying a homemade aeroplane around the world.

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• The microjet surpasses the size records of the BD-5J and the Cri-Cri.

• Safety features include a seaplane design, 3D-printed components, and a dual-engine system.

• The pilot controls the aircraft using a standard handheld remote control unit.

• Testing included high-speed car roof trials on a runway in Xiangxi, Hunan.