The Starr Bumble Bee II is widely recognized as the smallest airplane in the world. This miniature biplane was specifically designed and built to achieve this record, as evidenced by multiple sources.
Contenders for the Title and Their Claims
While several small aircraft exist, the Starr Bumble Bee II consistently holds the top spot due to its documented achievement in the Guinness Book of Records. Other contenders mentioned in various sources include:
- Stits SA-2A Sky Baby: This aircraft is noted for its small size, often appearing in discussions surrounding the world's smallest planes. A source mentions its dimensions as 11 feet in length and 6 feet in wingspan. (Reference: YouTube video snippet mentioning Stits SA-2A Skybaby dimensions)
- Cricket: A small aircraft designed by a French engineer, reported to cost over $10,000. (Reference: Reddit post mentioning the Cricket airplane)
- Various other small aircraft and drones: Sources mention that the definition of "smallest" can be ambiguous depending on if you are only considering piloted aircraft, or including drones. Drones have achieved significantly smaller sizes.
Why the Starr Bumble Bee II Reigns Supreme
The Starr Bumble Bee II's claim to fame rests on its official recognition by the Guinness Book of World Records. Its design and construction were solely focused on achieving the title of the world's smallest airplane. (References: Wikipedia article on Starr Bumble Bee II; Pima Air & Space Museum page on the Bumble Bee; Multiple sources citing Guinness World Records)
The key takeaway is that while many contenders for the "smallest" title exist, the Starr Bumble Bee II holds official recognition.
