Bob Essell Airshows -- 6420 Pioneer Trail, Hiram, OH 44234 -- (330) 612-2561
Bob Essell stand out in the world of wingwalking as the only team using a monoplane, the only team offering evening wingwalking with lights and pyrotechnics. Bob is the 3rd generation of Essells to take to the skies: his grandfather used to parachute from hot air balloons for audiences!About our Wingwalking Team...
Bob Essell - Pilot
Bob was taught to fly by his father in the mid 1960s. He began doing airshows in the early 1980s, at first doing flight demonstrations, then moving on to solo aerobatics, and eventually added wingwalking in 1990. His flying experience & credentials include level 1 unrestricted, solo aerobatics, wing walking, night pyro, a commercial pilot’s license and flight instructor certification. Additionally, Bob operates Liberty AirSports in Hiram, OH where he offers flight lessons and sells and services light aircraft. With over 25 years of experience in the aviation profession, Bob has assisted people from all walks of life in fulfilling their life-long dreams of flying.
Bonnie Bertel - Crew Chief
Bonnie Bertel, Bob’s wife, has been involved in the flying industry since 1982. Bonnie is the team’s crew chief. She plays an integral role in all facets of the airshow business and she has even taken a ride uptop!
Lisa Nelson - wingwalker
Lisa was born and raised in the Cleveland area. Lisa retired from practicing law and embarked on a personal like learning adventure which has included pursuing her dream of wingwalking!
Lisa is presently pursuing graduate school in higher education in Ohio and leads adventure/service tours in Central America in her off time. For fun, Lisa enjoys playing guitar, singing, and tap dancing. Other interest that fulfill her thrill seeking needs include mountain biking, snowboarding, sailing and diving.
Carol Pilon - Wingwalker
Carol is from Quebec, Canada and owns her own wingwalking Team(Third Strike). She has been kind enough to help out while our wingwalker was unable to make a show. Carol has been professional wingwalker since 2000.
Carol career has seen her establish many first a couple are listed here:
First women to walk on a jet propelled aircraft,
First Canadian wingwalker
Carol owns two aircraft. She is an FAA certified airframe technician.
Bill Hall - Crew
Bill has been working with our airshow team since the mid 80's.
Bill is an instrument pilot.
Carol is not our full time wingwalker,
Carol has help us out while our wingwalker has been unable to attend a show.
