| World Speed Record attempt 1999 | |
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Press release regarding the world speed record attempt at Wroughton Sience Museum, Saturday 11th September, 1999 |
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On September 11th, 1999, an official new world speed record for a radio-controlled model aeroplane was successfully made at Wroughton airfield in southern England, with an average speed of 254.5 mph (407.2 kmh). Previously, the speed record for an R/C model aircraft was 242 mph, set by an Austrian. The new record was set by David Cadman who built a specially modified BVM Bandit (12.5 kg at take-off), which was piloted by Steve Elias. The aircraft was powered by an AMT Netherlands Olympus gas turbine. The groundspeed was accurately measured using a calibrated Doppler radar connected to a PC, the record speed achieved being the average of one upwind and one downwind pass made within the same 7 minute flight. The highest downwind speed was 269.5 mph (431.2 kmh). |
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The BVM Bandit, controlled by a Futaba R/C system, was also fitted with an on-board telemetry unit transmitting real-time data to a ground display unit, including actual airspeed and altitude, as well as battery status for additional safety. The privately held event,
organised by David Cadman, was run to the strict regulations required by
the 'Guinness Book of Records', and was officially observed and independently
adjudicated by World Land Speed record holder Richard Noble OBE (of 'Thrust
SSC' fame), and assisted by Malcolm Tyler.
David Cadman and Pilot
Steve Elias with their BVM Bandit
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The reports have been sent to Guinness, and the new record, hopefully, will be included in the next edition of the record book. The record attempt was covered by the BBC television company, who are also sending a copy of their tape to Guinness for additional verification. Special thanks go to AMT Netherlands, Bob Violett Models, Shell UK (Aero Division) and Ripmax plc. |
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| Yours sincerely
David Cadman e-mail:david_cadman@amtjets.com
One of the official observers for the Guinness Book of Records was the well known Richard Noble, the director of the ThrustSSC Team. The ThrustSSC broke the land speed record and exceeded the Mach 1 barrier in October 1997 at Black Rock Desert (US). You can find all information about the Thrust SSC at their home page at http://www.farnborough-aircraft.com/ Richard Noble and David Cadman |
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Model Specifications |
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| Model :
Wingspan : Length : Take-off Weight : Radio : Engine: |
BVM Bandit
163 cm (64 ") 183 cm (72 ") 12,5 KG (26 Lbs) Futaba AMT Netherlands Olympus |
| Home | Copyright text and pictures David Cadman |