Betty Bromage Sets New Wing Walking Record at 97

Betty Bromage, who is 97 years old, has once again made headlines after setting a new Guinness World Record for being the oldest female wing walker.

The resident of Cheltenham, England, achieved this remarkable feat on Tuesday, August 4, becoming the oldest woman to execute a wing walk, marking her sixth time engaging in this daring hobby that began when she was 87.

Sixth Completion Extends Record

Bromage originally earned her Guinness World Record four years prior, and this latest undertaking allowed her to surpass her previous record.

During the challenge, she was securely attached to the wing of an Aero-Super-Batics biplane while the aircraft undertook its flight. To officially reclaim the Guinness record, she needed to remain airborne for a minimum of five minutes encompassing both takeoff and landing.

Betty's Adventurous Spirit

Bromage expressed her motivation for pursuing such thrilling activities, stating she loves to embrace life to the fullest despite her limitations.

"Life would be boring otherwise. I can’t drive, my eyesight isn’t great, and I become frustrated. So, I focus on what I can still do," she shared.

She also mentioned her interest in attempting another wing walk if her health permits.

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"If I’m still around in a couple of years, I might give it another go," she remarked.

Fundraiser for Cheltenham General Hospital

This recent wing walk was not merely about setting a record; it also aimed to raise funds for the Cheltenham General Hospital's stroke unit.

Bromage had a stroke in August 2025, commending the hospital staff for their excellent care during her recovery.

"They treated me wonderfully," she said, adding that while the stroke affected her speech, "the rest of me is fine."

Encouragement for Others

Bromage urged others to stay optimistic and not limit themselves due to age or fear.

"You shouldn't say 'can’t', that word isn't part of my vocabulary. I say 'I will if I can'," she insisted.

Reflecting on how she got into wing walking, she reminisced, "I was 87 when I thought, ‘Why not? Let’s give it a try.’"

Pre-Flight Calm and Thrilling Performance

Before the aircraft took off, Bromage was asked if she experienced nerves.

"No, I’m not nervous... Whatever will be, will be," she responded.

She climbed approximately 15 feet onto the aircraft wing and was securely strapped in before takeoff.

The flight involved exciting maneuvers, including a loop-the-loop. Upon landing safely, Bromage described the experience as, "Great, a bit bumpy, but fantastic!"

She lightheartedly added, "At 97, what’s there to be afraid of?"

Record for Oldest Male Wing Walker

Currently, the record for the oldest male wing walker is held by Harry Heasman, a WWII veteran, who set the record at 98 in May, raising funds for the Lennox Children’s Cancer Fund.