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The Story and Family Behind the Jetmobile

The Holmes Jetmobile family from left to right: Susie, Paul, Cherish and Maddy. Courtesy Les Abend
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Airline Captain Paul Holmes, with his wife Susie, constructed a unique "jetmobile" primarily from salvaged Boeing 747 parts, including an engine cowl and interior elements, built on a modified golf cart chassis.
  • Initially created for a local community parade in their pilot neighborhood, this elaborate vehicle quickly gained popularity, leading to appearances at various airshows and events.
  • Despite the significant personal investment, the jetmobile operates exclusively for charitable purposes, promoting organizations like the EAA Young Eagles program and delighting people of all ages without charging any fees.
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Paul Holmes and I first met back in the late 1990s at Miami’s infamous Columbus Day Regatta in Biscayne Bay, a boating weekend of craziness. The regatta actually involves a sailboat race, but most are unaware because of their participation in the side event, which is a massive overnight rafting of boats in all sizes from dinghies to 150-foot yachts. Add the ingredients of alcohol with a tropical climate, and the activities lend themselves to … well, use your imagination.

Les Abend

Les Abend is a retired, 34-year veteran of American Airlines, attempting to readjust his passion for flying airplanes in the lower flight levels—without the assistance of a copilot.

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