The flying Franklins started with Kyle’s grandfather, Oliver Gene “Zip” Franklin, who bought a 1929 Doyle Special at the age of 16. The eldest Franklin mainly used airplanes as farm equipment to fly between two family ranches, and he had his son Jimmy with him in the cockpit while still in diapers before the lad learned to fly — at only 8 years old.
Airshow Performer Kyle Franklin Talks Family and Flying
Key Takeaways:
- Franklin's Flying Circus, a multi-generational airshow act, is celebrating its 50th anniversary as the longest continually running act in the industry, now led by Kyle Franklin, who continues the legacy started by his grandfather and father, Jimmy.
- Kyle Franklin was introduced to flying as an infant and received unconventional training from his father, enabling him to become the world's youngest professional wing walker on innovative aircraft like the jet-powered Waco.
- Despite enduring significant personal tragedies, including the deaths of his father and wife in aviation-related incidents, Kyle demonstrates resilience by actively preserving the family's legacy through new performances, charitable trusts, and ongoing innovation.
Key takeaways sponsored by Aviator Pro | Start Your Training ->
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