SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS – Wingwalker Amanda Franklin, who was seriously burned in a March 12, 2011 air show accident, passed away on May 27, 2011 at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio.
The accident occurred when the engine quit on the Waco biplane her husband, Kyle, was flying during their wingwalking routine at Air Fiesta 2011 at Brownsville-South Padre International Airport and they made an off-field emergency landing. Upon impact a fire ensued and smoke oil burned the Franklins. Amanda was trapped in the front cockpit while Kyle attempted to free her, along with emergency personnel.
While Amanda was being treated, her wounds got infected and she developed both kidney and liver problems.
In addition to performing as a wingwalker, Amanda Franklin was a pilot with a tailwheel endorsement and multiengine rating, the business manager for Franklin’s Flying Circus & Airshow and Younkin Airshows, Inc., and the announcer for her brother Matt Younkin’s air show routine.
Amanda Franklin is the daughter of legendary air show performer, Bobby Younkin, and the daughter-in-law of legendary air show performer, Jim Franklin.
Kyle, who was also seriously injured in the accident, was discharged from the hospital March 28 and continued outpatient physical therapy, but Amanda remained in critical condition at Brooke Army Medical Center.
Kyle and Amanda began dating in 2004 and were married in 2005.
Amanda began wingwalking full time for their “Pirated Skies” act in 2009. They lived in Neosho, Missouri.
Amanda is survived by her husband, Kyle, mother, Jeanie Younkin, and brother Matt Younkin and his wife Michelle.
Donations to help with medical expenses are encouraged. Go to the “Moonlight Fund” at www.moonlightfund.org and specify the Kyle & Amanda Franklin Fund. You can also send a check to The Moonlight Fund, PO Box 1299, Bandera TX 78003. The Moonlight Fund is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides 24/7-assistance to burn survivors and their families in their hour of need. Any contributions made must be to the “Moonlight Fund” to qualify as a tax deduction.