VIDEO: Reporter Alex Jenkins joins the Breitling Wingwalkers

THE Breitling Wingwalkers will bring a taste of retro glamour and colourful showmanship to the skies at the RAFA Shoreham Airshow.
S34606H13

Alex Jenkins wing walks at Shoreham AirportS34606H13

Alex Jenkins wing walks at Shoreham Airport
S34606H13 Alex Jenkins wing walks at Shoreham Airport

As the world’s only aerobatic formation display team to feature professional wingwalkers, the team has been entertaining airshow crowds for almost three decades.

With their unique combination of skill, aerial artistry and effective teamwork, the formation of planes evokes the flamboyant and colourful character of aviation’s golden era.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Flying a fleet of four iconic Boeing Stearman biplanes, the aerial ballerinas on the wing capture the carefree and colourful spirit of aviation.

S34606H13

Alex Jenkins wing walks at Shoreham AirportS34606H13

Alex Jenkins wing walks at Shoreham Airport
S34606H13 Alex Jenkins wing walks at Shoreham Airport

In contrast to the visual spectacle, the sound of the 450hp radial engines also catches the attention of those watching and creates a display that stimulates the senses for people of all ages, making the team a family favourite.

The experienced pilots are among the most skilled in the world, with thousands of hours of experience to call upon, flying a host of different aircraft in their careers.

Flying at comparatively low speeds of around 100mph in the cruise, the pilots require not only superior handling skills but also an understanding of the aeroplanes themselves, which date back to the late 1930s.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

As part of the lead-up to the Shoreham Airshow, reporter Alex Jenkins was given the chance to step into the harness and become a wingwalker herself.

She gives an account of the once-in-a-lifetime experience in a special eight-page Shoreham Airshow supplement in the Herald & Gazette series on Thursday.