Aircraft overview

The Scottish Aviation Bulldog is a British side by side military trainer and light aerobatic aircraft, originally designed by Beagle Aircraft as the B.125 Bulldog and put into production by Scottish Aviation at Prestwick. The prototype first flew in 1969, with production continuing into the early 1980s under Scottish Aviation and, after corporate changes, British Aerospace. The type is best known as the RAF Bulldog T.1, used for university air squadron and elementary training, and it also served with several overseas air arms. For buyers, its significance is its combination of military trainer structure, responsive handling and straightforward piston aircraft systems.

Performance & specifications

Most Bulldogs are powered by a 200 hp Lycoming IO-360 series fuel injected four cylinder engine driving a constant speed propeller. Typical cruise performance is around 115 to 120 knots, depending on power setting, propeller, rigging and aircraft condition. Published figures for the type include a service ceiling of about 16,000 feet and range commonly quoted in the region of 500 nautical miles with appropriate reserves and configuration. Useful load varies by individual aircraft, equipment fit and certification basis, so buyers should rely on the specific weight and balance report rather than brochure numbers.

Cabin & avionics

The Bulldog has two seats arranged side by side beneath a large canopy, giving good visibility for training, formation work and aerobatic instruction. The cockpit is functional rather than plush, with military style ergonomics, dual controls and relatively compact baggage provision. Original aircraft typically carry conventional analogue flight instruments, VHF communications, transponder and basic navigation equipment. Many privately operated examples have been updated with modern radios, Mode S transponders, portable or panel mounted GPS and engine monitoring, but integrated suites such as Garmin G1000 or Garmin Perspective are not typical factory or fleet installations for the Scottish Aviation Bulldog.

Buying & value

Condition and documentation matter more than cosmetic presentation. Prospective buyers should review airframe fatigue status, aerobatic use history, corrosion protection, canopy condition, control system rigging, landing gear condition and Lycoming engine records. Variant identity is important, particularly RAF Bulldog T.1 aircraft and export military versions, as equipment, paperwork and certification history can differ. Common upgrades include modern communications, transponder, GPS, overhauled propellers and refreshed interiors. In the used market, the Bulldog is positioned as a characterful ex military trainer rather than a fast touring aircraft. Current PlaneFox listing data shows an average asking price around EUR 69,000, with listed examples ranging from about EUR 68,000 to EUR 140,000.