The Model 355 Old School has returned to flight after several years in storage. Initially developed as the Firebird Demonstrator for Northrop Grumman, Scaled Composites is returning this Medium-Altitude Long-Endurance aircraft to its role as a developmental testbed. Old School expands the Scaled Composites test fleet with proven extended endurance (demonstrated up to 11 hours) and flexible payload options.

Old School’s payload integration options support a capability of 1280 pounds: the large primary internal volume aft of the cockpit measures 4 feet x 3 feet x 2 feet with an access opening of 45 inches x 24 inches. This bay is easily accessible from the side and lower access panels, enabling the option for pass-through sensors and other payloads. Additional internal volume options are available within the cockpit and nosecone. The aircraft supports several external mount options including above and beneath the fuselage, the forward tail booms, and hard points beneath the wings. Old School has previously supported a wide array of test programs, including engine development, sense and avoid, and telecommunications.

The reflight was conducted by test pilot Dr. Mike McLean. This was McLean’s first flight in the aircraft and he had this to say after the flight: “Old School is a great airplane – it is amazing how well built it is to go right back out and do it again. It makes my job easy and speaks to the quality of the design and build that we can go right back into test.”

Learn more about Old School at: https://scaled.com/portfolio/OldSchool/

About Scaled

Scaled Composites is a specialty aerospace and composites development company continually working to push boundaries, prove out ideas, and influence the future. Founded by Burt Rutan in 1982 and located in Mojave, CA, Scaled has averaged one first flight of a unique, new airplane per year. Scaled designs, builds, and tests proof-of-concept, prototype, and milestone achieving vehicles including the Proteus, SpaceShipOne, Model 401, and Stratolaunch.

Our employees come from a diverse background of talents, experience, and interests. This unique combination of individuals helps promote an innovative and creative atmosphere. Scaled offers the opportunity to pursue career and personal interests in a manner that can be found nowhere else by following one simple rule: have fun.

Scaled Composites is a wholly owned subsidiary of Northrop Grumman Corporation.

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