Be-500 Bibi

The Be‑500 Bibi, produced by the Czech firm Beneš‑Mráz in the early 1950s, was a light utility aircraft that bridged the gap between pre‑war trainers and post‑war transports. Development began in 1949 when the company sought a versatile platform capable of liaison, cargo, and medical evacuation duties for both civil operators and the Czechoslovak Air Force. The prototype first flew on 12 March 1951 from the Kbely airfield and demonstrated excellent short‑field performance thanks to its high‑wing, all‑metal construction and fixed leading‑edge slats.

Key features include a 260 kW (350 hp) Walter Minor 6‑III engine, a spacious cabin that could accommodate up to six passengers or two stretchers, and a robust undercarriage with oversized tires for unprepared strips. The Be‑500’s low stall speed of 55 km/h and a service ceiling of 7,500 m made it suitable for mountainous regions, while its simple maintenance design won praise from ground crews.

Although only 68 units were built before production ceased in 1956, the Bibi left a lasting imprint on Eastern European aviation. It demonstrated that a modestly powered aircraft could safely operate in demanding environments, influencing later designs such as the Aero L‑60 Brigadier and cementing Beneš‑Mráz’s reputation for pragmatic engineering.

Beneš-Mráz

Classification

Production & History

Design & Classification