The Reve Blue or 'Blue Dream' is an airplane that is essentially a flying replica of the famous Bugatti 100P racing aircraft.
Construction on the original Bugatti 100P began in 1937, although the project was put on hold due to the Second World War. The aircraft was noted for unique forward-swept wings, slanted Bugatti Type 50 engines and contra-rotating propellers.
The Reve Blue replica is an engineering marvel because it stays impressively faithful to the original airplane in terms of power, shape as well as size. The original Bugatti 100p was rather fragile, so this replica version incorporates modern technology in the form of fiberglass construction and machined alloy fittings.
The plane's performance was not perfect, as it landed farther down the runway than planned and did a noseplant at the end. However, given the unique features of this machine, it's impressive and wondrous that it flew as well as it did.
Groundbreaking Replica Airplanes
The Reve Blue Pays Homage to the Radical Bugatti 100P
Trend Themes
1. Flying Replicas - The trend of creating flying replicas of famous historical aircraft provides opportunities for companies to showcase engineering marvels and incorporate modern technology.
2. Modernized Construction - The trend of using modern technology such as fiberglass construction and machined alloy fittings in replica airplanes opens up opportunities for innovative and durable aircraft designs.
3. Unique Features - The trend of incorporating unique features, such as forward-swept wings and slanted engines, in replica airplanes allows for experimentation and potential improvements in aircraft performance.
Industry Implications
1. Aerospace - The aerospace industry can capitalize on the trend of flying replicas by offering engineering expertise and developing modernized construction techniques.
2. Aviation Heritage - The aviation heritage industry can benefit from the trend of creating replica airplanes by showcasing historical aircraft and providing educational experiences to enthusiasts and the general public.
3. Composite Materials - The composite materials industry can seize the opportunity presented by the trend of modernized construction in replica airplanes by supplying innovative materials and manufacturing processes for lightweight and durable aircraft components.