Professional wingwalker since 2017
Katie is a local girl born and bred in the Cotswolds. Growing up on the family farm isn’t always so glamorous and her time leading up to the airshow season will be spent doing what she enjoys, lambing! Keen on sport, she is a avid netballer, and plays in the Country Premier League. She has 6 years of gymnastics experience behind her, which really helps her perform the moves on the plane. The vintage planes are a real delight to work on, a bonus for Katie as she loves the 30’s and 40’s and takes part in the always energetic Swing and Jive dancing. The re-enactment societies and vintage villages at the shows are the highlight!
After two seasons full time, Katie has travelled as far as China and the Philippines, as well as up and down Europe. Flying everywhere in an open cockpit can be gruelling at times, sometimes fighting the weather, however the bond between pilot and wingwalker never fails, passing sweets and snacks between cockpits, whilst pointing out landmarks only visible from the sky, as well the occasional double rainbow. Katie says there have been many highs from travelling, but nothing yet has beaten flying to Switzerland through the South of France and Italy, the sun being so hot they could fly in short sleeves, and the scent of rosemary hanging in the air.
Katie’s favourite part of being a wingwalker is swivelling and hanging upside down! She says there is no feeling like the first flight back after the winter. The adrenaline rush mixed with high speeds and handstands, is one that can’t be described, she can’t help but shout out a declaration of elation!
