Kitplane engine choices - Turbine or Jet?

Question

Are there any single seat kitplanes that utilize a TURBINE engine?

Are there any single seat kitplanes that utilize a jet engine?

I do know of the BEDE 5J but that's all I've got.

Answer 1

A jet engine is a turbine engine.

There is a Lancair that uses a turboprop, (prop engine driven by a turbine engine) they are ridiculously fast, but they cost in the neighborhood of $1M, so thats not for everyone.

I know some people out there have taken planes like a vari ez and other variants of that plane and powered them with jet engines. Its not a very efficient thing to do, but its a pretty cool project to have.

A twin engine Cri-Cri has been retrofitted with two medium size model airplane jet engines.

I can't think of any kit plane that is specifically designed for jet engines aside from the Lancair, which I don't think is what you're asking for.  

Answer 2

lancair has a pair of turboprop planes (evolution, IV-P), though they're quite expensive and both are 4-seaters. P-51 mustang replicas often get turboprops, though most aren't designed for them and take a bit of modification

Answer 3

There's not many turbine kits because most turbines are so powerful.  But Aerocomp and Legend are two makers that have developed some pretty hefty kitplanes

Answer 4

Builders are trying various means of jet engine power. One used a helicopter engine two yrs ago with the last turbine stage and shaft removed. Then he added a conical section to act as nozzle for thrust.

I believe you will see a number of cruise missile engines adapted to small airplanes in the future. Many years ago these were called 'low cost engines,' and the major mfrs had a good laugh. They said there was no such thing. They lost a lot of business to Williams and others mfrs in that class.

Answer 5

Bede did a BD 10 once that looked like a baby F15.  Used a timed out Lear Jet engine.  Could go super sonic.  

try http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bede_BD-10