26/08/2026
Wingwalk for Crohn's & Colitis UK
Duxford 23/08/2026
Soooo.....
Where do I begin?
What happens when you have always wanted to do a Wingwalk, you're about to turn 50 and you like fundraising?
Over 30 friends and family came to Duxford to watch this mad idea that I've had for over 30 years come to life.
Once you're booked in you go off to have a briefing with the rest of your time slot madmen about the risks and what to expect. Then you suit up and wait to be called forward. I was lucky to get to go first. Once airside you then make your way over to the beautiful 1942 Boeing Stearman and meet the pilot, lovely Martyn and the ground crew then start getting you on the plane. Easier said than done as you have to be incredibly careful to only stand on certain parts, once you've pulled yourself to the top you are strapped in with a five point harness, ear defenders in and that's you sorted!
Once ground checks were complete, the engine a 450 HP Pratt & Whitney Junior Wasp roared into life. The whole plane vibrates through to your bones and the sound is incredible. We then performed a 360° spin for photos before heading off to the grass runway.
The take off is incredibly fast and we were soon off while I was wondering how I came to be strapped to the outside of a plane 😂
Once we climbed we turned to fly over everyone. We had a few laps round and the views were amazing. It's incredibly hard to move your arms due to the wind pinning them down but I managed to pull some moves, also having to adjust the goggles as my eyes were streaming. I couldn't breathe through my nose and had to keep unsticking my mouth from my teeth as it's hard to keep your mouth closed with the wind. Think of a dog with its head out the window! After a few more laps it was time to come down. We flew about 600ft over the M11 and I waved to everyone on the way down 😂 The landing was incredibly smooth, make sure to watch that video to hear me screaming with excitement 😂
With the upmost thanks to the whole team at Ethel Dares WingWalking at Duxford, I can't thank them and recommend them enough.
If you would like to donate you can do so here, all donations are greatly appreciated 💜
https://www.justgiving.com/page/rachel-norris-76
