One-Of-A-Kind Aircraft Set To Take Flight In 2014

It looks a little bit like something we might have dreamed up and Photoshopped for the April 1 edition, but no, that's really a Taperwing Waco with a jet engine bolted to its belly.

The Screamin’ Sasquatch was unveiled Monday night at the International Council of Air Shows in Las Vegas, giving air show industry insiders the opportunity to inspect it up close before it takes to the skies with John Klatt Airshows in 2014. The airplane, a Taperwing Waco made famous by barnstormers of the 1920s and 30s, adds the modern twist of a jet engine that will thrill spectators with amazing sights and sounds. John Klatt, a Lieutenant Colonel in the Air National Guard, who fought in Operation Iraqi Freedom in Iraq, and Jeff Boerboon, a U.S. Unlimited Aerobatics Champion, will pilot the Screamin’ Sasquatch.

Team Klatt says that building this airplane over the past year has been a labor of love, and has required the collaboration of many others. Perhaps the most important collaborator is a person who still lives vividly in the minds and hearts of many ... Jimmy Franklin.

"So many of us have been mesmerized by the Jet Waco concept, ever since Jimmy first conceived of it, built it, and then flew it in ways that left us in absolute awe," the John Klatt team posted on its Facebook page. "He first debuted the Jet Waco in 1999, and quickly made it one of the air show world's most popular acts of all time. 15 years later, during the 2014 air show season, we are so immensely proud to be bringing the world its second Jet Waco. If our performances can deliver a fraction of the impact that Jimmy Franklin's did, they will be a success."

The airplane is being sponsored by Jack Link's. The company says that the partnership is an opportunity for the brand to demonstrate its strong heritage of supporting the U.S. military. As a top military food supplier, Jack Link’s offers products, gifts and support to active troops and veterans, supports the Wounded Warrior Project and employs many veterans.

“Jack Link’s shares our passion for adventure, entertainment and camaraderie. Thanks to this new partnership, air show fans are in for one wild ride during the 2014 season,” said John Klatt (pictured), president, John Klatt Airshows and featured performer.

“John Klatt Airshows and Jack Link’s both embody the ‘Feed Your Wild Side’ attitude,” said Kevin Papacek, director of marketing at Jack Link’s Beef Jerky. “John Klatt and the Screamin’ Sasquatch will be quite the attraction, thrilling crowds who attend air shows next year.”

(Images provided by John Klatt Airshows)

FMI: www.johnklattairshows.com/