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, led by Kyle Franklin, is the longest continually running airshow act, celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2017 as a multi-generational family legacy in aviation.
- Kyle was immersed in aviation from birth, learning to fly at age 8 with unconventional training from his father, Jimmy Franklin, and becoming the world's youngest professional wing walker at 17.
- Despite facing significant tragedies, including the deaths of his father and wife in airshow-related incidents, Kyle demonstrates resilience by continuing the family's innovative performances and honoring their memories through his acts and charitable efforts.
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