Frank C. Sanders
Frank Sanders, Member number 41, was one of the early supporters of Warbirds of America. Throughout his life he wore many caps: Air show pilot, homebuilder, warbird restorer, instructor, aviation researcher, inventor, stunt pilot, test pilot, businessman, and author.
As an air show pilot Frank flew a fabulous air show act in his Sea Fury at shows across the western United States. A regular at EAA Oshkosh, for seven years he flew right wing in Team America’s tight three-ship formation. As a test pilot Frank flew his homebuilts and warbird restorations, particularly for his smoke generator research. A contract instructor at the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School, he also raced his P-51 at Fox Field in 1965 and in 1971 won the Mojave 1000 in his Sea Fury.
Some other facets of his career include becoming a film and television stunt pilot and an aircraft builder and restorer in 1969. This latter interest led to a successful business, Sanders Aircraft, which he formed with his wife Ruth. Known for its warbird restorations and Smokewinders (smoke generators), the business thrives today with Ruth and their sons, Dennis and Brian at the helm.
Before his death in 1990, Frank wrote several papers on air show safety and served on various safety boards. When asked why he put so much effort into safety articles, he once explained: “I feel I can make a difference, and possibly save a life; That’s what makes it worthwhile.”