Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic — July 18, 2026 — After five years of meticulous craftsmanship, dedication, and engineering excellence, the Dominican-built experimental aircraft HI1121EX, affectionately known as the “Silver Bullet,” has successfully completed its first transatlantic crossing, marking a historic milestone for Dominican aviation.
The Van’s RV-8, built by Dominican aircraft builder Alejandro Marranzini and the RV8DR team, are flying to #OSH26 at an average cruise speed of 192 knots, achieved while using only 66% engine power—a remarkable demonstration of both the aircraft’s aerodynamic efficiency and the exceptional quality of its construction.
More than a technical achievement, the flight was dedicated to the memory of Franklin Polanco, one of the Dominican Republic’s most respected pilots, aviation communicator, mentor, and lifelong advocate for the advancement of civil aviation.
“Franklin Polanco was a giant of Dominican aviation—a pilot, mentor, visionary, and tireless ambassador who placed our country on the international aviation map. Dedicating this journey to his memory is our way of honoring a man whose passion for flight inspired generations of Dominican aviators. The Silver Bullet flies today because Franklin helped show us the way.”
— Alejandro Marranzini, Andrés Sánchez, and Carlos Sanlley, principal builders and pilots of the Silver Bullet.
A Historic Achievement for Dominican Aviation
The Silver Bullet represents years of perseverance, innovation, and technical excellence. Designed and assembled entirely in the Dominican Republic, the aircraft showcases the country’s growing capabilities in experimental aviation and aircraft construction.
Successfully completing a transatlantic crossing places the Silver Bullet among a select group of homebuilt aircraft that have safely crossed one of the world’s most demanding routes. It is a remarkable accomplishment that highlights the talent, discipline, and professionalism of Dominican builders and pilots.
For the Dominican aviation community, this achievement is more than a successful flight—it is proof that locally built aircraft can meet the highest international standards of performance, reliability, and safety.
Honoring the Legacy of Franklin Polanco
The decision to dedicate this historic flight to Franklin Polanco carries profound significance.
For decades, Franklin devoted his life to promoting aviation throughout the Dominican Republic and beyond. His influence reached thousands of pilots, aviation professionals, students, and enthusiasts, making him one of the country’s most respected aviation figures.
Aviation Pioneer and Communications Professional
Franklin was both an accomplished pilot and journalist. He began his communications career reporting for the Voice of America (VOA). He later joined the United States Information Service (USIS) at the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo, where he served for decades as Local Press Officer.
Throughout his distinguished career, American diplomats consistently regarded him as one of the finest public affairs professionals with whom they had worked anywhere in the world.
Founder and Leader
Franklin was a main contributor of the foundation the Dominican Naval Auxiliaries, where he ultimately earned the honorary rank of Vice Commodore Ad Vitam, reflecting his lifelong commitment to public service and aviation.
Architect of Dominican Civil Aviation
As one of the earliest advisors to the Dominican Institute of Civil Aviation (IDAC), Franklin played a pivotal role in shaping the institution during its formative years.
He worked tirelessly to improve pilot training, certification standards, aviation education, and operational safety, helping establish a stronger and more professional aviation community throughout the Dominican Republic.
International Ambassador for Dominican Aviation
Franklin passionately promoted the Dominican Republic as one of the Caribbean’s premier destinations for general aviation.
He represented the country at internationally renowned aviation events such as EAA AirVenture Oshkosh and Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo in Lakeland, Florida, introducing thousands of North American pilots to the exceptional flying opportunities available in the Dominican Republic.
His work helped establish lasting relationships between the Dominican Republic and the international general aviation community.
Official Recognition
In August 2024, the Dominican Institute of Civil Aviation (IDAC) honored Franklin Polanco by naming the main auditorium of the Higher Academy of Aeronautical Sciences (ASCA) in his honor.
“As a pilot, communicator, and promoter of aeronautical development in our country, Franklin Polanco has become part of aviation history far beyond our national borders.”
— Héctor Porcella, Director General, IDAC
Franklin was also awarded the prestigious Benjamin Franklin Award by the United States Embassy in 2001 in recognition of his distinguished service with the United States Information Service.
Next Destination: EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026
Following its historic Atlantic crossing, the Silver Bullet will continue its journey to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026, the world’s largest aviation gathering, held annually in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.
There, the aircraft will proudly represent the Dominican Republic before thousands of pilots, aircraft builders, aviation professionals, and enthusiasts from around the globe.
Its presence at Oshkosh is more than the exhibition of an extraordinary homebuilt aircraft—it is a tribute to a man whose life’s work helped ensure that Dominican aviation would have a respected place on the world stage.
As visitors admire the Silver Bullet, they will also learn the story of Franklin Polanco—a visionary who believed that the Dominican Republic belonged among the world’s great aviation nations, and who dedicated his life to helping make that vision a reality.
About the Silver Bullet
The HI1121EX “Silver Bullet” is a Van’s RV-8 experimental aircraft designed, built, and assembled in the Dominican Republic by Alejandro Marranzini and the RV8DR team over a five-year period.
The historic flight crew includes:
- Alejandro Marranzini – Builder, owner, and pilot
- Andrés Sánchez – Pilot
- Carlos Sanlley – Pilot
- Carlos Medrano – Pilot
- Rico Polanco – Pilot
Its successful transatlantic journey represents one of the most significant achievements in the history of Dominican experimental aviation and stands as a symbol of the country’s engineering talent, craftsmanship, innovation, and passion for flight.
Media Contact
@RV8DR / Silver Bullet Project
Instagram: @rv8dr
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