Dylan Beyda operates as the chief pilot of Thunderbird 1 for the International Rescue Organisation, stationed at the Pacific Arcology. Born in Tokyo, Japan in 2058, he is the eldest son of celebrated space explorer Harrison Beyda. His teenage years in Tokyo forged a close bond with fellow pilot Bill Watson, though their paths diverged when Dylan left for advanced studies in the United States. He holds degrees in Astronomy and Quantum Mechanics from Yale and Oxford Universities.

Combining technical mastery with unwavering duty and a streak of rebellion, Dylan excels in hand-to-hand combat and piloting. He commands Thunderbird 1—a retrofitted NASA shuttle equipped with mechanical debris-grasping arms, emergency helium coolant vents, and a high-precision laser—serving as a mobile command hub for planetary and orbital missions. Kallan James occasionally relieves him as pilot.

Dylan consistently prioritizes civilian lives over protocol, defying orders when necessary, as demonstrated during the Rosinante reactor crisis where he disobeyed Commander Simpson to rescue imperiled civilians, including Bill Watson. Off-duty, he practices karate and tai chi and swims regularly in Arcology’s ocean.

His history shapes key missions: In "Space Warriors," his piloting skill earns Space Patrol recruitment offers after capturing bandits, leading to a clash with their escaped leader. "Nightmare" introduces his younger brother Danny Beyda, who aids against the Shadow Axis. During "Stardive," he becomes a rescuee after stranding aboard the Centaur spaceship with rival pilot Kristen Elliot.

His Japanese name, reflecting the series' origins, is Raiji Hidaka (ライヂ·ヒダカ).