Firefly N2059U

North Korean KARI "FireFly"

The Firefly was a very unique "Velocity", built by KARI as a design study out of several kits. It was featured in this Velocity Views article. This is also the aircraft that Gus McLeod used to try and fly non-stop to the south pole and back in association with Florida Atlantic University. For that flight the airplane was heavily modified with assistance from the factory, with long-range fuel tanks, etc. HL-EBD is a retractable version of the FireFly based in South Korea. N2059U has been deregistered, perhaps rebadged N90NS (this is confirmed as the plane was for sale on Barnstormers 9/24/2013), maybe for Gus' attempt on the pole?

Highly modified wing made by government scientists for record attempts. Carried 4400 pounds to give a 30 hour endurance (2700 gross). Lycoming IO540 turbocharged to hold 65% above 27000. Garmin 430, transponder, audio panel. Slaved HSI, 3-axis auto pilot. Wired for Iridium phone. Fuel flow meter. 6-cyl EGT. Stand-by alternator.

Airworthiness Date: 06/17/2002
Builder: KARA

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  N2059U Side

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  N2059U Rear

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  N2059U Cockpit

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  FireFly N2059U

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  Gus McLeod

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  In-Flight

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