Meet Betty Bromage: 97-year-old grandmother who broke her own Guinness World Record to become the world’s oldest female wing walker just a year after surviving a stroke
For most adventure lovers, ticking off a bucket-list activity means climbing a mountain or hot-air balloon or skydiving. But for 97-year-old Betty Bromage of England, adventure translates into climbing onto the wing of a vintage biplane and soaring through the skies. The woman loves flying so much that she broke her own Guinness World Record to become the world’s oldest female wing walker, once again.
Wing walker (Instagram)
The adventureBromage achieved the feat in Gloucestershire, UK on August 4, 2026. By doing this, the incredible woman proved that adventure has no expiry date. The remarkable journey came just a year after she suffered a stroke. But not even a stroke could stop her which makes her latest accomplishment even more inspiring. Rather than allowing age or health challenges to define her, Bromage chose to celebrate life from thousands of feet above the ground.
At 97, Betty Bromage breaks her own Guinness world record as the world’s oldest female wing walker.
What is wing walking?For those who don’t know, wing walking is among aviation’s most thrilling experiences where participants are securely harnessed to a specially designed frame mounted on the upper wing of a vintage aircraft. There is an experienced pilot who performs an exhilarating flight. Now don’t mistake it with aerobatic wing walkers who move around the aircraft during airshows.In this particular stunt, recreational wing walkers remain strapped into position throughout the flight. Despite this, the stunt doers experience powerful winds and an adrenaline rush unlike almost anything else.It is a carefully regulated activity in the UK. There are some strict safety procedures, professional pilots and specially modified aircraft for every flight.Love at 87Bromage proved that age is just a number. Bromage fell in love with wing walking at 87 when most people have given up on adventure. She was inspired after seeing others take part and decided to give it a go. Since then, she has completed the thrilling adventure six times.Speaking to the media, she explained that she simply didn’t want life to become boring. She has often said that the word “can’t” isn’t part of her vocabulary.Flying for a causeThis year, she flew for a cause. In 2025, after she suffered a stroke. Grateful for the care she received, she decided to dedicate her latest wing walk to raising funds for the hospital. She has said that although the stroke affected parts of her speech, she recovered well enough to pursue another adventure in the skies.As per global tourism studies, in the past 10 years, seniors are travelling more and spending time on meaningful experiences. and actively choosing adventure activities that match their physical abilities. Whether it’s wildlife safaris, scenic helicopter rides, glacier walks or vintage train journeys, today’s older travellers are rewriting stereotypes about ageing.Can tourists try wing walking?
Meet Betty Bromage: 97-year-old breaks her own Guinness World Record as oldest female wing walker after recovering from stroke
Yes but only under experts and provided they meet the operator’s medical and safety requirements. Several licensed aviation companies in the UK offer wing walking experiences.The experience usually lasts only a few minutes in the air, but participants often describe it as one of the most unforgettable adventures of their lives.
