Bob Carlton is a longtime air show performer, known for his breathtaking performances in sailplanes. His unique demonstration shows off the incredible capabilities of sailplanes for audiences all across the country.

He flies the FoxJet Sailplane, which is unique to the air show world, because unlike normal sailplanes, this one has two twin jet engines! It allows him to take his show to new heights – literally!

About Bob Carlton

Bob Cartlon started flying in 1979 and has more than 2,000 hours logged in various aircraft. In 1993, he began flying air shows professionally.

Bob Carlton visible in the cockpit of a FoxJet sailplane flying over forested terrain with light smoke trailing.

He is known for flying his Salto sailplane at air shows. However, he recently added an additional plane, the FoxJet Sailplane. He flies the FoxJet in daytime and nighttime performances.

Awards

2017 – Art Scholl Memorial Showmanship Award
2015 – Soaring Society of America’s Chairman’s Award
2015 – Bill Barber Award for Showmanship Award

About the FoxJet

The FoxJet takes sailplanes to a new level, with not one, but TWO jet engines attached.

Bob Carlton performing a steep bank in a white FoxJet sailplane, trailing smoke against a clear blue sky.

How does this differ from other sailplanes? Normally, a sailplane is attached to a towplane that brings it up to a certain altitude, they drop the tow rope, and the pilot soars down to the ground in the sailplane. Once it reaches the ground and lands, the performance is over.

However, thanks to its engines, the FoxJet can soar through the air on its own. This means the show can go on!

Learn more about Bob Carlton at https://www.vertigoairshows.com/