A Brief History of EAA Airventure Oshkosh
Posted by Clinton McJenkin on Jul 16th 2024
The EAA fly-in, now known as the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, has a rich history dating back to 1953 when the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) held its first fly-in gathering in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The event was organized by Paul Poberezny, the founder of EAA, with the goal of bringing together homebuilders and aviation enthusiasts who shared a passion for building and flying their own aircraft.
The BAS team has been attending Oshkosh for over 5 years. This year we wil have the Josh Blair PA-16 Clipper fuselage in our tent - booth #207
The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) was founded in 1953 by Paul Poberezny. Its goal was to bring together individuals interested in building and flying their own aircraft. The organization quickly gained popularity among aviation enthusiasts and homebuilders, providing a platform for knowledge sharing and camaraderie.
By the 1980s, the EAA fly-in had become the premier aviation event in the world, drawing thousands of aircraft and aviation enthusiasts from around the globe. In 1998, the event was rebranded as EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, a name synonymous with the ultimate aviation experience.
• Aircraft: The event featured more than 3,000 showplanes of all types, including vintage warbirds, experimental aircraft, homebuilt planes, ultralights, helicopters, and aerobatic performers.
• Exhibitors: EAA AirVenture Oshkosh hosts hundreds of exhibitors, including aviation manufacturers, suppliers, and aviation-related organizations, showcasing the latest innovations in aviation technology and products.
• International: EAA Airventure 2023 saw visitors from over 90 countries.
• Airshows: The event includes daily airshows featuring breathtaking aerobatic performances, flight demonstrations, and fly-bys by military and civilian aircraft.
• Workshops and Forums: EAA AirVenture Oshkosh offers a wide range of educational workshops, forums, and presentations on various aviation topics, allowing attendees to learn from experts and industry professionals.
• Youth Activities: The event also provides engaging activities for youth, including hands-on workshops, educational programs, and opportunities to experience aviation up close.
• Campgrounds: EAA AirVenture Oshkosh boasts one of the world's largest aircraft camping grounds, accommodating thousands of aircraft and campers during the event. More than 13,000 camp sites were used by pilots camping in the airfield combined with drive-in campers in 2023 accommodating more than 40,000 visitors!
• Overall, EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is a premier aviation gathering that offers a unique and immersive experience for aviation enthusiasts of all ages, celebrating the passion for flight and innovation within the aviation community.
Today, the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is a week-long event held annually in late July. It features airshows, workshops, forums, exhibits, and aircraft displays. It has earned a reputation as the world's largest aviation celebration, attracting hundreds of thousands of attendees and showcasing a diverse array of aircraft, from vintage warbirds to cutting-edge experimental planes. The event serves as a platform for aviation enthusiasts to celebrate their passion for flight. The EAA AirVenture Oshkosh has become a must-attend event for pilots, industry professionals, and aviation fans alike.
Throughout its history, the EAA has played a significant role in promoting aviation education, preserving the history of flight, and advocating for the interests of aviation enthusiasts. Its efforts have not only inspired people of all ages to explore the world of aviation but also ensured that the rich history of flight is not forgotten, fostering a deeper appreciation for the thrill of flight.
The EAA AirVenture Oshkosh remains a cornerstone of the aviation community and has had a lasting impact. It fosters a spirit of innovation, camaraderie, and passion for flight that continues to thrive today. It brings together pilots, enthusiasts, and industry professionals to celebrate the spirit of flight and honor aviation's rich history.
