OSHKOSH, Wisconsin (March 10, 2016) — More than 10,000 aircraft – from warbirds and aerobatic to vintage and ultralights – and half a million flight enthusiasts will soon make Wittman Regional Airport the busiest airfield in the world.
EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2016, the 64th annual Experimental Aircraft Association fly-in convention, will be held July 25-31 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. Known to many simply as “Oshkosh,” this year’s event promises to deliver something for everyone. There will be acrobatic shows by some of aviation’s top performers, immersive learning experiences for people of all ages, and a glimpse at one of the most important eras of U.S. history, aviation or otherwise.
The 75th anniversary of Pearl Harbor’s “Day of Infamy” will be commemorated during AirVenture with air shows by historic American and Japanese World War II-era aircraft, as well as other activities throughout the week. An unprecedented flying appearance will be made by a restored Interstate Cadet aircraft (shown here) that was in the air for flight training over Oahu when the attack began on December 7, 1941.
“Pearl Harbor changed America forever 75 years ago,” said Rick Larsen, who coordinates features and attractions at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh as the EAA vice president of communities and member programs. “We will commemorate the heroism shown that day and in the aftermath of the attack.”
In addition to historic aircraft, AirVenture will bring in one of the most advanced military aerial demonstration teams in the world – the Canadian Forces Snowbirds. Comprised of nine Canadair CT-114 Tutor jets and operating at speeds of up to 465 mph, the Snowbirds (shown in formation) will make their first Oshkosh appearance since 1983.
Other major performances will include the AeroShell Aerobatic Team, glider aerobatics expert Luca Bertossio, the “Screamin’ Sasquatch” Jeff Boerboon, and the first woman to ever become the U.S. National Aerobatic champion, Patty Wagstaff, who has accomplished the feat three times.
Daily highlights are available through the comprehensive EAA AirVenture Oshkosh website, with more features and attractions being continually added as they are finalized.
When air shows aren’t dominating the sky, AirVenture also includes learning centers for children and aircraft enthusiasts; aircraft of nearly every size, shape and era to view; nightly activities, like a “fly-in” theater and concerts; and flight experiences on a B-17, Ford Tri-Motor and Bell 47 Helicopter. Not to mention, the EAA AirVenture Museum is onsite and open for tours.
About EAA AirVenture Oshkosh
EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is the “World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration.” Additional information, including advance ticket and camping purchase, is available online at www.eaa.org/airventure. EAA members receive lowest prices on admission rates. For more information on EAA and its programs, call 1-800-JOIN-EAA (1-800-564-6322) or visit www.eaa.org. Immediate news is available at www.twitter.com/EAA.
