EAA AirVenture Today - Sunday, July 28, 2024

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JACK FLEETWOOD

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAM SASIN

— Alan Jay Lerner

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2024 AirVenture Lindy Awards Announced

HUNDREDS OF GORGEOUS, striking airplanes arrive at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh each and every year in hopes of winning a Lindy Award. Few aircraft, in comparison to the field, come away with any sort of award. Fewer still come away with a Lindy.

Awards are given out across six categories: Homebuilts, Warbirds, Vintage, Rotorcraft, Ultralights, and Seaplanes. Entrants can be considered for only one category in a given year, and are not eligible for the

HOMEBUILTS

Kit Outstanding Workmanship

same or any lower-tier awards if they have won in the past.

Looks are considered in award judging, but the quality of craftsmanship inherent in the aircraft is a crucial factor as well. Careful construction and/or restoration, as well as tireless maintenance, is essential in winning a Lindy.

With all of that said, congratulations to all the 2024 award winners!

Tom Savrda Vero Beach, FL Van’s RV-7 N515CC

Richard Grue Southlake, TX Van’s RV-14 N314VA

Ralph Trapaga Fayetteville, GA Van’s RV-8 N798RM

William Bacon Fayetteville, GA Van’s RV-14 N914DH

Brian Collins Valparaiso, IN Van’s RV-14A N212NW

David Stone Stuart, FL Van’s RV-7 N234AS

Roland Aut Hamilton, GA Van’s RV-10 N92SV

Plans Outstanding Workmanship Shad Bell Centerburg, OH Baby Lakes N95MQ

Kit Champions (Bronze Lindy) Dave Hock Littleton, CO Van’s RV-7 N732DH

Christopher May Owensboro, KY Javron Super Cub N623CM

Randal Rettler Manitowoc, WI Van’s RV-9A N1179C

John McBean Homedale, ID Kitfox Series 7 N66KS

Charles Wyndham Poplar Grove, IL Van’s RV-8 N8SH

Todd Protacio Chicago, IL Van’s RV-14A N547JP

Jeanne Henry Park City, UT Kitfox

PUBLISHER: Jack J. Pelton, EAA CEO & Chairman of the Board

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SENIOR SALES AND ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE: Sue Anderson

VINTAGE

Antique (Through August 1945)

Antique Continuously Maintained Aircraft

Customized Aircraft Runner-Up

Bronze Age Outstanding Closed-Cockpit Monoplane

Bronze Age Outstanding Open-Cockpit Biplane

Bronze Age Runner-Up

Silver Age Outstanding Closed-Cockpit Biplane

Silver Age Outstanding Open-Cockpit Biplane

Silver Age Runner-Up

Charles Maples Fairfax, VA Waco QCF-2 NC11468

Sherri Driggers Hernando, FL Luscombe 8 N28412

Neil Baughman Harrisburg, PA Luscombe 8A N28554

Bryan Brannon Conway, AR Boeing Stearman N3976B

Paul Santopietro Edgewater, FL Waco UPF-7 NC45373

Emma Herrington Hitchcock, TX Waco UIC NC13418

Warren Caldwell Oklahoma City, OK Waco UMF-3 NC13571

Warren Caldwell Oklahoma City, OK Fleet 1 NC607M

World War II Military Trainer/Liaison Aircraft Champion (Bronze Lindy)Benjamin Redman Faribault, MN Waco UPF-7 NC30102

Customized Aircraft Champion (Bronze Lindy)

World War II Era (1942-1945) Champion (Bronze Lindy)

Bronze Age (1937-1941) Champion (Bronze Lindy)

Silver Age (1928-1936) Champion (Bronze Lindy)

Antique Reserve Grand Champion (Silver Lindy)

Antique Grand Champion (Gold Lindy)

Classic (September 1945-1955)

Outstanding Aeronca Champ

Outstanding Aeronca Chief

Outstanding Beechcraft

Outstanding Cessna 120/140

Outstanding Cessna 180

Outstanding Cessna 190/195

Outstanding Navion

Outstanding Piper Other

Outstanding Stinson

Preservation

Custom Class A (0-85 hp)

Custom Class B (86-150 hp)

Custom Class C (151-235 hp)

Custom Class D (236 hp and up)

Best Customized Runner-Up

Class I (0-85 hp) (Bronze Lindy)

Class II (86-150 hp) (Bronze Lindy)

Class III (151-235 hp) (Bronze Lindy)

Class IV (236 hp and up) (Bronze Lindy)

Champion Customized Classic (Bronze Lindy)

Reserve Grand Champion (Silver Lindy)

Grand Champion (Gold Lindy)

Contemporary (1956-1970)

Outstanding Beechcraft Single Engine

Outstanding Cessna 180/182/185/210

Outstanding Mooney

Outstanding Piper PA-18 Super Cub

Outstanding Piper PA-24 Comanche

Outstanding Piper PA-28/PA-32 Cherokee

Outstanding Piper Apache/Aztec

Garry Ackerman Plano, TX Stinson Reliant NC3040

Benjamin Redman Faribault, MN Stinson V77 NC985D

Peter Dugdale Clinton Township, MI Waco UPF-7 NC32000

Ronald Johnson Rockford, IL Buhl Bull Pup NC353Y

Trevor Niemyjski Union Grove, WI Waco YKS7 NC19373

Michael Porter East Liverpool, OH Boeing PT-17 N59293

John Albright Richmond, IN Aeronca 7AC N2645E

Bruce Papon Hardtner, KS Aeronca 11BC NC1012

Jason Fischer Rochester, MN

Beechcraft E35 N45JF

Austin Revlett Sacramento, KY Cessna 140 N3782V

Kent “Trip” Carder Lakeville, MN Cessna 180 N2219C

Evan Fisher Fort Worth, TX

Cessna 195 N1053D

Jason Woodside Warrenton, VA Navion N5277K

Tyler Smokovitz Fenton, MI

Matt Humes Stillwell, OK

Larry Leyda Coffeyville, KS

Piper PA-12 NC7504H

Stinson 108 N9432K

Beechcraft Bonanza N5175C

Bill Pancake Keyser, WV Aeronca 7AC NC1890E

Robert Staton Lonoke, AR

Lindy Perry Cumming, GA

David Pfister

El Paso, IL

Piper J-3 N1455N

Piper PA-18 N54LP

Cessna 195 N127GM

Rick Joyner Bellbrook, OH Navion N91534

Alan Cuthbert Edwardsburg, MI

Stephanie Triesenberg Ventura, CA

Nelini Faulkner Ann Harbor, MI

Wayne Eggen Langley, BC

Nicholas Howell Englewood, CO

Devon Martin Memphis, MO

Dominic Hernandez Hudson, CO

Christopher Cantrell Hernando, MS

Cody Abner Cleburne, TX

John Keating Cincinnati, OH

Brian Udell Queen Creek, AZ

Mark Nuckolls Fayetteville, AR

Ercoupe 415 N93803

Cessna 140A N9477A

Temco Swift N2319B

Cessna 190 C-FISR

Cessna 180 N2835A

Piper PA-17 N4627H

Beechcraft C-45 N2382B

Beechcraft N35 N61GM

Cessna 182 N9924A

Mooney M20 N9595M

Piper PA-18 N9261P

Piper PA-24 N8980P

Shane Richardson Henderson, NV Piper PA-28 N8735N

Jeff Carroll West Bloomfield, MI

Most Unique Orlo Ellison Broomfield, CO

Preservation Award

Class II Single Engine (161-230 hp) (Bronze Lindy)

Class III Single Engine (231 hp and up) (Bronze Lindy)

Dean Richardson Memorial Award (Bronze Lindy)

Outstanding Customized (Bronze Lindy)

Outstanding Multiengine (Bronze Lindy)

Reserve Grand Champion Customized (Silver Lindy)

Grand Champion Customized (Gold Lindy)

PA-27 N6716Y

AL-60F-5 N96038

Eli McKee Brighton, CO Cessna 185C N99HP

David Riley

MD Cessna 172 N8444L

Sean Sullivan Fort Worth, TX Piper PA-28-235 N8949W

Paul Wolff Baraboo, WI Piper PA-22 N4860A

Darrell Newhall Fritch, TX Cessna A185E N8993W

Charles Craft Shepherdstown, WV Beechcraft 95-C55 N65AC

Robert Thoms Clyde, MI Piper PA-32 C-GKGH

Anne Foley Lake Geneva, WI Cessna 185C N641DA

Grand Champion (Gold Lindy)

Reserve Grand Champion (Silver Lindy)

Champion (Bronze Lindy)

Ken Brock Outstanding Workmanship Award

Noel & Barbara DuerksenSpring Hill, KS

Paul Berg Hamlin, NY

Keith Barr Reno, NV

Brad Champlin Palmyra, NY

Jeff Krall Mitchell, SD

Lightplane Honorable Mention

Dan Kroeplin Marysville, OH Titan Tornado Ultralight Honorable Mention

William Darnell Otsego, MI Quicksilver MX

SEAPLANES

Grand Champion (Gold Lindy)

Reserve Grand Champion (Silver Lindy)

Champion (Bronze Lindy)

Outstanding Metal Floatplane

Outstanding Fabric Floatplane

Outstanding Amphibian

Scott Ehni Trinity, TX

Kary McCord Montgomery, TX

Mark Wrasse Fort Myers, FL

Rob Haglund Cross Lake, MN

Dan Ellingson Minocqua, WI

Stephen Hayward Paradise, NL Cessna

Judges’ Choice Most Innovative Harbour Air Ltd. Richmond, BC

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WARBIRDS

Preservation Awards

Preservation Award

Preservation Award

Preservation Award

Preservation/Perseverance Award

Preservation Award

Judges’ Choice

Judges’ Choice: Best Bomber

Judges’ Choice: PT-17

Judges’ Choice: Jet

Judges’ Choice: Helicopter

Judges’ Choice: T-34

Judges’ Choice: P-51

Judges’ Choice: L-19

Judges’ Choice: Trainer

Best

Best B-25

Best T-28

Best P-51

Best Stearman

Todd Eby Goshen, IN Beechcraft T-34B N245Z

Hannu Halminen Orono, ON North American P-51D N951HB

Mike Potter Aircraft CollectionOttowa, ON Supermarine Spitfire MK IXCGYQQ

Bill Finney Muncie, IN Cessna L-19 Bird Dog N5190G

Jerry Goggin

Miami Beach, FL Short Tucano N411ZF

Pat Harker Forest Lake, MN North American B-25J N5833B

Tom Torchia Oro Valley, AZ Boeing PT-17 Stearman N747Q

Scoop Heave Barrington, IL MiG-17 LM5 N717MG

Jeff Kaney Rockford, IL Aérospatiale SA 341F GazelleN341KJ

Glenn Anderson & Mark HoltClear Lake, IA Beechcraft T-34 MentorN42SW

Scott Glover Mount Pleasant, TX North American P-51D MustangN151MC

John Carlton Lenoir, NC Cessna L-19A Bird Dog N143F

Patrick Falley Leucadia, CA North American SNJ-5CN665C

SilverCAF Minnesota Wing CAF Minnesota Wing South St. Paul, MN North American B-25 N27493

SilverAl Grant Frank D. Smith Lone Tree, CO North American T-28C TrojanNX140AG

SilverDusty Dowd Walter Bowe Sonoma, CA North American P-51A N51Z

SilverJaycona Matson Bell Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum Hood River, OR Boeing Stearman Model 70NC571Y

Best Jet SilverCode 1 Aviation Advantage Aviation L39 LLCAlexandria, VA Aero Vodochody L-39CTN139MD

Best Transport SilverAero Metal InternationalWS Aircraft Museum Campo Largo, Brazil Douglas C-53 SkytrooperN43XX

Best Prototype SilverJaycona Matson Bell Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum Hood River, OR St. Louis YPT-15 N106SC

Best Helicopter SilverManfred Harder Manfred Harder Whitby, ON Bell OH-58A Kiowa C-GUGG

Best T-34

SilverBlackwell Aviation Don Tharp Aurora, OH Beechcraft T-34 MentorN334JV

Best Bomber SilverFagen Fighter RestorationFagen Fighters WWII MuseumGranite Falls, MN Curtiss SB2C-5 HelldiverN48HD

Special Awards

Returning Best of Class

SilverSteve Meyers AviationRobert Stoney Mercer Island, WA Cessna O-1E Bird Dog N4848M

Most Authentic Warbird SilverAFLCMC 419th Test Squadron Edwards AFB, CA Boeing B-52H 60-0036

Phoenix Award Gold Fagen Fighter RestorationFagen Fighters WWII MuseumGranite Falls, MN Curtiss SB2C-5 HelldiverN48HD

Phoenix Award SilverJaycona Matson Bell Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum Hood River, OR Boeing Stearman Model 70NC571Y

Warbirds Appreciation Award Mid America Flight MuseumScott Glover

Grand

Reserve Grand Champion World War IIGold Vintech Aero Mike Potter Aircraft CollectionOttowa, ON

Hawker Hurricane C-FTPM Grand Champion Gold Midwest Aero RestorationsJohn Vesely Scottsdale, AZ North American P-51D MustangNL151JV

NEW HEIGHTS.

OSHKOSH MOMENTS

Alina Scott, 15, Returns to EAA AirVenture

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABIGAIL OLENICZAK

ALINA SCOTT IS a 15-year-old who is chasing her dreams with hopes to inspire other youths. After flying into EAA AirVenture Oshkosh solo in 2023, she returned this year to speak about her experiences at two forums.

Alina, of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, grew up surrounded by an aviation family and has attended EAA AirVenture Oshkosh her whole life. She currently has more than 110 hours logged and hopes to one day be a fighter pilot.

Alina said her dad, William, was and still is a huge supporter. He encouraged her to learn to fly powered paragliders before fixed-wing flying.

After months of practice in open fields, running with the paraglider engine strapped onto her back, she accomplished the foundation needed to move ahead, she said.

Alina said this has strengthened her knowledge of flight and the basics.

In March 2023 her dad helped her purchase the Aerolite 103 ultralight, and flight training in the fixed-wing began. She said learning to fly this ultralight at different altitudes helped her become more comfortable with the aircraft.

Two months and roughly 60 takeo s and landings later, she was ready to conquer various flying skills. With the help of her father, Alina learned and practiced using di erent navigation systems, communications, and approaches.

Alina’s adventure to AirVenture 2023 took six days and 42 stops at multiple airports along the way. Alina said her dad was her “pit crew” on the ground.

William followed her flight route via roads and was there for her at each airport to refuel her aircraft.

She hopes that her experiences inspire other youths to want to fly. “First you have to actually want to be a pilot,” Alina said. “It’s not just riding a bicycle where you can fall o and get right back up. You have to make decisions and think for yourself while flying.”

The biggest challenge through her flying journey so far was learning to be independent at such a young age. She said, “Transitioning from being dependent on others to dealing with problems on my own … was a challenge.”

Alina is involved in the Civil Air Patrol and plans to join ROTC soon.

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

Free youth admission ages 18 and under is supported in part by

She also hopes to earn her private pilot certificate, as well as glider, rotorcraft, and multiengine ratings.

Alina Scott by her Aerolite 103 ultralight, which can be found in the Fun Fly Zone.

OSHKOSH MOMENTS

Saudi Pilot Stops in Oshkosh

AirVenture marks halfway point in around-the-world flight

BY BARBARA A. SCHMITZ AIRVENTURE TODAY STAFF

MISHAAL ALSUDAIRY IS flying around the world, but he made sure that one of his stops was at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh.

Flying a Diamond 42, Mishaal left Saudi Arabia on July 8 and arrived in Oshkosh on Wednesday morning after having to first land in Appleton the day before since the air show was on.

It was his second time flying into Oshkosh — in 2021, he flew in a Cessna 182 — but his fifth visit to the convention.

A lifetime EAA member, Mishaal said that in 2021, he took a much shorter route, flying from east to west, and didn’t fly alone.

“This time I decided to do it solo,” he said. “I really wanted to go around the world.”

Earlier this month, he flew west to east, through India, Thailand, Vietnam, Taiwan, Japan, the northeastern part of Russia, and through the Bering Sea to Alaska. In the U.S., he flew the Cascades because of the view, but wildfires in Canada made it so smoky that he could see little. He flew directly to Oshkosh from Bozeman, Montana.

“I have many great stories to tell, but the pinnacle of my flight is to be here in Oshkosh,” Mishaal said. “I value their goal of promoting general aviation.”

He also plans to make a video of the trip and maybe write a book in both Arabic and English. “Aviation is such a great hobby. Plus it teaches people discipline, good habits, and a good ethic.”

Mishaal hopes his flight will promote general aviation and inspire youths to look at careers in aviation. He also hopes to encourage older adults to realize that age isn’t an obstacle unless they have medical issues. “Aviation crosses generations and brings people together,” he said.

A relatively new pilot, Mishaal first earned his pilot’s license in 2018. Since then he’s added his multiengine, instrument, and commercial ratings and logged 1,612 hours in the air over six years.

He encourages other GA enthusiasts to fly to Sand N Fun, a fly-in being planned in Saudi Arabia this November. “If you love something, live your dream and

fulfill it,” said. “Aviators are there to help you, guide you, and make it easier.”

Mishaal used Shepherd Aero, which provides worldwide international trip support, to make his trip easier, as they took care of many of the logistics, except in Russia. “There I was on my own,” he said. Shepherd Aero provided help in making sure Mishaal had the correct visas and credentials to fly in 15 di erent countries, each with its own requirements.

He planned to leave Oshkosh Saturday morning and head back to Saudi Arabia, traveling from Canada to Greenland, to Iceland, to Northern Ireland to England and Austria, where he will stop at the maintenance department at the Diamond manufacturing facility. Next, he plans to fly to Crete before returning to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he started. Once home, he’ll have flown about 13,000 nautical miles.

Mishaal said preparation is key for a flight of this magnitude. He added an oxygen generator and satellite system to his stock airplane. The satellite system was particularly helpful, as he used it to communicate through messages or phone. “It was very valuable in Japan and Russia to contact the radar,” he said.

He took survival training and learned how to ditch in the water. He made sure his airplane was in excellent condition, and had it inspected in the Diamond factory on his route here. He’ll do the same on the way back.

One of his highlights was flying over the Pacific. “I’ve never seen clouds as huge as those,” he said, noting that it took him six hours to fly over the Pacific from Japan to Russia.

There is one thing Mishaal already knows, and that is that he will be back.

“Oshkosh is becoming a second home to me. EAA does a great job planning the event. … But the community also plays a big role, as they welcome every visitor.”

Mishaal AlSudairy planned to depart Oshkosh Saturday to complete his around-the-world trip. Once back in Saudi Arabia, he will have flown about 13,000 nautical miles. PHOTOGRAPHY BY BARBARA A. SCHMITZ

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MISHAAL ALSUDAIRY

Connecting community together

There is no end to what we can do together.

We’re proud to be part of EAA AirVenture, standing beside those who pursue possibilities to create a brighter future.

Thank you EAA for another great year.

TAKE FLIGHT

aboard one of EAA’s unique Flight Experiences

B-25 Berlin Express

$475 per EAA member

$495 per nonmember

B-25 Operations are located at the southeast corner of Warbird Alley

Bell 47 Helicopter

$65 per person

Helicopter Operations are located at Pioneer Airport behind the EAA Aviation Museum®

AROUND THE GROUNDS

MAGIC CARPET RIDE

AirVenture sightseeing in a Bell helicopter

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY JIM ROBERTS

IF YOU CAME of age in the ’70s and ’80s, chances are your image of a helicopter stems from the iconic opening scene in the television series M*A*S*H, where a bubble-nosed H-13 Sioux lands in a cloud of dust as nurses run to o -load an injured soldier. This week at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, as in every year since 1994, Bell 47s, the civilian versions of the H-13, are making the rounds over the AirVenture grounds. Happily, their passengers are wide-eyed sightseers, and you can join them daily at EAA’s Pioneer Airport.

I spoke with one of the pilots, Chris Anderson; his father, Tim, rebuilt a Bell 47 in the 1970s and sold it to a friend of EAA founder Paul Poberezny. Paul’s friend flew it to AirVenture each year, and the Bell was used for tra c control and public relations flights for VIPs. In 1994, EAA bought the helicopter to start a sightseeing operation, which grew to the current fleet of two EAA-owned and two leased aircraft.

The Bell 47 became the first helicopter certified for civilian use on March 8, 1946, and more than 5,600 were produced. The AirVenture fleet spans production years from 1956 to 1972, and Chris said, “They’ve all been restored, and they’re well cared for. We babysit ’em like nobody’s business. They built a heck of a helicopter for the time, and it’s a joy to fly.”

The operation serves nearly 800 passengers daily, and Chris noted, “We get a lot of repeat customers; one gent shows up every day to take a helicopter ride. Some of our passengers start out a little apprehensive, but usually by the time we’re 10 feet into the air, they’re going, ‘This is really neat!’ They’re just impressed at the great view and how large AirVenture is. I see a lot of happy faces; the kids just go nuts.”

All this takes a crew of 20 pilots on a rotating schedule, and almost 50 ground volunteers. I met pilot Marshall Crandall who started flying at AirVenture when the operation began in 1994, and he has been here every year since. He’s flown as a fixed-wing corporate pilot but said, “Helicopters have always been my love.”

When asked about his most memorable passengers, without hesitation he recalled, “Everybody’s special, but about two years ago I flew two Medal of Honor recipients and got a chance to talk to them a bit.” Here he got a bit emotional, continuing, “They were just outstanding people. I can’t tell you how impressive they were.”

Watching passengers’ reactions after landing, you get the idea they’ve just gotten o a magic carpet ride.

Nine-year old Anna Stoehr, who flew with her mother Cintia, ran over to her dad, threw herself into his arms, and exclaimed, “I want to do it again!” Chances are, you will too.

Two more happy passengers lift off from Pioneer Airport.

Young Anna Stoehr (pink shirt) is all charged up after her flight.

Teen Brothers Fly Into Oshkosh

BY BARBARA A. SCHMITZ

THE SAYING MAY be “A family that prays together stays together.” But for the Smith family, it’s a family that flies together.

After getting stuck in Chicago due to the CrowdStrike outage instead of being back home in the Houston area, Jonathan Smith, a United Airlines captain/line check pilot, rode a jump seat to Green Bay, found a ride to Oshkosh, and arrived on the EAA AirVenture grounds in time to see two of his sons taxi in upon landing in a 1971 Piper Cherokee 140.

Flying the airplane was Landen, 18, who graduated from Klein High School in June, and his 17-year-old brother, Miles, who is a junior at the school.

Landen soloed at 16, got his private pilot certificate at 17, and became a

commercial flight instructor at 18. He is also instrument and seaplane rated and tailwheel endorsed, and has logged nearly 1,000 hours in the air.

Miles has 380 hours logged and is awaiting his checkride to become a certificated pilot. While his father may have been his first flight instructor, his brother has now taken on that role, allowing them both to gain hours.

This is the third trip to AirVenture for the teens and the 13th trip for Jonathan, who started flying in 1990, has logged 9,500 hours, and once flew for Samaritan Ministries in New Guinea, where the family lived for five years.

Landen said it is nerve-racking to fly into Oshkosh. “There are a lot of planes, and it definitely keeps you on top of your

toes,” he said, adding that they arrived Monday after the air show. It was the second time he was PIC upon arrival.

The family belongs to a small flying club where Landen also flies a Quicksilver seaplane and J-3 Piper Cub.

Aviation is truly a family affair. Jonathan and his wife have two other children, a daughter who just started ground school and another son who is working on his commercial certificate.

plan on having a backup plan in aviation, just in case.

Landen and Miles said they also hope to become commercial pilots, but they

“But if I’m flying, it means I’m having fun,” Landen said.

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY

AIRVENTURE TODAY STAFF

From left, Landen, Jonathan, and Miles Smith by their airplane and campsite in the South 40.

Chambliss Recipient of 2024 Bill Barber Award for Showmanship

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY BARBARA A. SCHMITZ AIRVENTURE TODAY STAFF

THERE IS NO surprise that Kirby Chambliss was named the recipient of the 2024 Bill Barber Award for Showmanship. The only surprise is that it took him so long to receive it.

Kirby, one of the top aerobatic pilots in the world, was crowned U.S. National Aerobatic Champion five times, and as a member of the U.S. National Aerobatic Team, he won 13 medals at multiple World Aerobatic Championships. He also was the Red Bull Air Race World Champion in 2004 and 2006, and flew in every Red Bull air race from 2003 to 2019.

Throughout his air racing and aerobatic competition careers, Kirby also has flown air shows across the nation in his Red Bull Edge 540. He performed at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh on Saturday, and again on Sunday as a member of the Red Bull Air Force.

Kirby said he was honored to receive the award, presented by World Airshow News and the friends and family of the

late Bill Barber, particularly since the recipient is chosen by past award winners.

“It’s always a surprise to receive awards like this,” he said. “I had no idea I won until I got the phone call.”

Showmanship is key to the award. Kirby said the type of flying he does is very aggressive, even explosive. “If I can have people say they haven’t seen that before, I’ve done my job, and I always try to do my job.”

Besides flying aerobatics, Kirby flies races and competitions, and is a Southwest Airlines pilot. He said the three types of flying are just different. “But I’m pretty causal about everything. When I close my canopy, I always do the best I possibly can.”

Kirby said he prefers flying as a team with the Red Bull Air Force rather than as a solo act. “We’re very unique when we put all three disciplines together,” he said. “People really enjoy it,” he said, adding that his favorite move is a gyroscopic maneuver where he goes end on end.

Kirby acknowledged that his flying has changed somewhat over the years. “I find

it easier because I’ve done it for so long,” he said. “The airplane is an extension of my arms, and I know it like the back of my hand.”

A private pilot at 17, Kirby became Southwest Airlines’ youngest captain by 28. But his interest in aviation began as a young boy as he helped rivet on his dad’s Davis DA-2 homebuilt in their garage. “I’ve always wanted to be a pilot,” he said. “There was nothing else I ever wanted to do. I just had to figure out how to do it.” He certainly figured it out.

“When you’re trying to be the best in the world, the only thing you can do is practice more,” he said. “You don’t become a world champion without practice.”

Kirby received the Barber Award after Saturday’s air show.

“If I can have people say they haven’t seen that before, I’ve done my job, and I always try to do my job.” — Kirby Chambliss

Kirby Chambliss is the 2024 recipient of the Bill Barber Award for Showmanship.

Able Flight Gains Nine New Light-Sport Pilots

BY BARBARA A. SCHMITZ AIRVENTURE TODAY STAFF

ABLE FLIGHT AWARDED its greatest number of flight training scholarships in a year to people with a disability in 2024, and nine of those 10 scholarship recipients completed their training in July and earned their sport pilot certificate.

Seven of the nine then attended EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024 for Able Flight’s wing-pinning ceremony at Theater in the Woods Tuesday morning. In addition to the new pilots, parents, spouses, children, friends, and others attended the celebration, said Able Flight Executive Director Charles H. Stites.

Four of this year’s scholarship recipients are veterans, and two are women.

The scholarship allowed the students to take their online ground school courtesy of Sporty’s Pilot Shop, Charles said.

“The ground school prepares them for flight training, and then they prepare to progress for the written knowledge test.

While they’re doing that, they’re also getting live online streaming help from two universities — Purdue and for the first time, Southern Illinois at Carbondale — to help them prepare for when they get their flight training.”

Charles said the students arrived on campus in late May and stayed until early July to complete their training in adaptive training aircraft. Purdue used a

light-sport aircraft (LSA) Sky Aero 600, while Southern Illinois used a Vashon Ranger, also an LSA.

The pilot training is important for the students since it allows them to forget about having a disability for the moment, he said.

“When the students learn to fly, it levels the playing field,” Charles said. “They have to follow the same instructional program as anyone else. They have to pass the same checkride. They accomplish the same thing that every other pilot has accomplished. And other pilots understand that and respect it.”

Charles said since Able Flight began 18 years ago, they have had 98 people with

a disability complete their training and become certificated. “And a significant number of them do continue to fly,” he said. “Eleven of the 98 are aircraft owners; that’s a significant percentage.”

The scholarship program is supported by donations and sponsorship.

Those who would like to apply for a scholarship in 2025 should go to AbleFlight.org. The deadline to apply is December 31.

Charles suggested people first go to the frequently asked questions section, which includes information on timelines and how to apply. The application form can be found on the scholarship page.

AROUND THE GROUNDS

Sitting Down With Airbus North America CEO Robin Hayes

BY SAM OLESON AIRVENTURE TODAY STAFF

ROBIN HAYES IS the new chairman and CEO of Airbus in North America, responsible for Airbus’ commercial aircraft and commercial services businesses throughout the Americas, as well as coordinating with Airbus Helicopters and the Airbus U.S. space and defense business. Robin has more than 30 years of global aerospace experience, including nine years as the CEO of JetBlue Airways Corp. Prior to JetBlue, he had a 19-year career at British Airways. Robin sat down with AirVenture Today this week at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024 to chat about Airbus’ presence at the event, as well as his thoughts on a number of other topics.

Q: This is your second time attending EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. What are your thoughts on the event?

A: “It is fantastic. I had forgotten how big this was. I also suspect it’s grown over the last 15 years [since last attending] as well. So I now realize coming for a day was not enough time, so I’m going to

have to come back next year and come for longer. But I mean, I can’t think of a more authentic air show experience than this one anywhere in the world.”

Q: You’ve been involved in the aviation industry for a long time and are in a new role at Airbus. What excites you most about this new opportunity?

A: “First of all, I feel extremely fortunate to have this opportunity to work for a company that, one, I’ve admired for a very long time, and two, has been so pioneering in aviation. By the way, not just fixedwing airplanes, but helicopters and other innovations as well. And if you look ahead, our industry is going to double over the next 20 years in so many parts of the world, and sustainability of the industry is becoming a must-have rather than a nice-to-have. And it’s great to be working with an organization that’s at the forefront of the innovations that we need to make our industry more sustainable. So it’s incredibly exciting, and the amount of knowledge that exists in the people that work for Airbus is just something that’s just incredible.”

Q: Airbus is primarily known for its commercial aircraft, but what else is the company involved in?

A: “Airbus has 41 different physical locations in the United States. Airbus spends $15 billion in the supply chain in the United States. Airbus supports 275,000 jobs outside of Airbus that directly contribute to Airbus. We employ about 5,000 people ourselves. Probably the biggest of these 41 sites, obviously we have aircraft manufacturing in Mobile, where we build the 320 family and the 220. We build helicopters in Mississippi. And we build satellites in Florida. So those are, by the way, just three of the 41. … I mean, we are a fully fledged member of the aviation community here, and that is something that’s just going to continue to grow.”

Q: AirVenture and EAA as an organization focuses a lot on getting youths introduced and involved in aviation. Why is that important, and how does Airbus work to get the next generation involved in the industry?

A: “It is critically important, and here’s why. Our industry is going to double in size in the next 20 years. And when we talk to people today about what they see or think of as the growth careers, they’ll tell you things like cybersecurity, digital, clean energy transition. And yet, aviation is absolutely up there as a huge growth industry. And we need people to do that, whether they are engineers, whether they are pilots, mechanics. There are so many different jobs that need to be filled.

“So it’s absolutely critical that Airbus, but also everyone involved in the aviation ecosystem, is there doing their bit to get kids interested in this as early as middle school, if not maybe elementary school, but at least middle school. So as they start figuring out what they want to do in high school, what they want to do when they go to college; they can think of aviation as a great career.”

Q: Sustainability is a personal and professional passion for you. Why is that important, and what is Airbus doing to innovate when it comes to sustainable aviation?

A: “I think we have to recognize that we’re in a race against time here. If you look at it, particularly in Europe, you’re seeing more governments come out with mandates for airlines. In the United States, there’s not a mandate, but there’s a big commitment. So, new engine technologies. And that’s largely the part we’ve been doing today, the benefits of the neo engines versus the generation of engines before that, what might come next in terms of engine technology to make it even more fuel efficient. Then you’ve got sustainable aviation fuel, which is really viewed by the industry as something we should be focusing on now because it’s something that is available, but not available in anything like the volumes it needs to be. We’ve been stuck for a while in this loop of, do airlines want it? Are they willing to pay for it? Are financial institutions going to invest in it? But I feel that we’re now breaking out of that and I feel things actually happening. … I feel really a big push. But we’ve got to continue to push it, right?”

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF AIRBUS

EAA Recognizes Rep. Sam Graves for Spearheading Bipartisan Efforts for FAA Reauthorization

EAA ON SATURDAY recognized U.S. Rep. Sam Graves (R-Missouri) for his bipartisan efforts, working with leaders in the House and Senate to pass the Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization Act of 2024, which was signed into law this past May by President Biden. The EAA recognition came during Rep. Graves’ annual congressional update to aviators held at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, the world’s largest fly-in convention.

“In his role as chair of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Sam Graves conveyed to Congress the necessity of giving the FAA its roadmap for the next five years, so the agency can plan and execute its important mission of keeping the American aviation system the safest and most active in the world,” said Jack J. Pelton, EAA CEO and chairman of the board. “It is especially gratifying to see general aviation represented as an

essential, stand-alone title within FAA reauthorization, a provision that exists because of the direction and support of Chairman Graves.”

The FAA Reauthorization Act includes the firstever general aviation title, a specific section that encompasses numerous provisions supported by EAA that benefit general aviation growth. Of note, the bill mandates the expansion of BasicMed, increasing the size of covered aircraft to 12,500 pounds, the number of allowable passengers to six, and the number of seats to seven. Another provision provides a 24-month maximum deadline for the FAA’s completion of the MOSAIC final rule. While the rule is expected significantly sooner – likely in 2025 – a congressional deadline highlights the importance of the rulemaking.

Also included are sections that provide for the continued availability of avgas, direct a review of

the process for reserving aircraft registration numbers to reduce unfair profiteering, and spur development of a suitable position reporting system for voluntary use in non-rule airspace. In further efforts to protect pilots from unfair enforcement, language is included that prohibits the use of ADS-B Out data by the FAA to initiate an investigation, and additional sections amend the Pilot’s Bill of Rights to ensure pilots have adequate time to respond to a letter of investigation.

A longtime pilot himself, Chairman Graves has emerged as a leading voice in Congress in support of aviation. He continues to be active at aviation events throughout the country and as a member of the EAA Warbirds of America board of directors, as that organization is dedicated to the preservation of historic military aircraft.

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Gone West: Bruce Bohannon

BY TERESA STOKES

AN EAA FAVORITE and an aviation legend, Bruce Bohannon, EAA 169040, age 66, passed away peacefully in his home from a relatively short bout of cancer on July 24, 2024. He was born and raised in Alvin, Texas, and developed a passion for flight from a young age, eventually becoming an aerobatic pilot, flight instructor, air racer, and aviation world record-setter.

Bruce won numerous air races between 1989 and 1998 in his all-composite pusher aircraft, Pushy Galore, which now hangs in the EAA Aviation Museum. After setting five time-to-climb and altitude records in the pusher, Bruce built a second purpose-built, highly modified RV-4 known as the Exxon Flyin’ Tiger. Bruce and the Tiger broke 30 more records between 1999 and 2005.

Throughout his career, Bruce’s 35 world performance records earned him the respect of pilots everywhere. He is the only American pilot ever awarded the prestigious Louis Bleriot Medal by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale three years in a row from 2001 to 2003. He went on to own and operate Flyin’ Tiger

Flying School in Angleton, Texas, becoming the world’s only RV-8 transition pilot school among other instructing accomplishments. Bruce was inducted into the Texas Aviation Hall of Fame in 2022 and is also on the National Air and Space Museum’s Wall of Honor.

A truly funny and sharp-witted guy, he was an unforgettable character, friend of thousands, and he will be sorely missed!

“It’s not that you can’t do it. It’s that you choose not to.” — Bruce Bohannon

‘HOORAY, HUNGARY!’

A trip around the world

BY ANGELA SATTERLEE AIRVENTURE TODAY STAFF

TWENTY-TWO HUNGARIAN AVIATION enthusiasts were welcomed to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, their last stop on a week-anda-half-long trip around the world. The trip began on Wednesday, July 17, and will end on July 29, and was organized by GoforGo Travel out of Hungary.

The travelers are all aviation lovers. A few spend time building models as a hobby, studying history, or taking photographs, but the majority enjoy watching air shows or looking at aircraft up close.

Steve and Agnes Kiss are Hungarian nationals but have been living in the States for decades, and they dedicate

their time to working at the International Tent. Steve proudly carried the Hungarian flag through the International Parade, unaware of what it would mean to the Hungarian visitors who were watching.

“Hooray, Hungary!” They shouted as Steve walked by with the flag. It was a moment neither group will forget.

“Meeting a Hungarian so far from home is always a big surprise,” Laszco (Lesly) Esik, a Hungarian member of the trip, said tearing up. “So, when you see the Hungarian flag, it’s emotional.” Lesly’s wife, Zsuzsa (Susan) Esik, said he immediately started searching for the Hungarian flag, and it was heartwarming when he spotted it.

The group flew commercially. Starting in Budapest they traveled to Frankfurt, to

Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Chicago, and then drove the rest of the way to their final destination at AirVenture. The entire trip totaled over 8,000 miles in the air and about 400 miles by car.

This was the second AirVenture Lesly and Susan had been to, but it was the first time they had seen the International Parade. “Like in the Olympic games, it was very similar,” Lesly said. “So many happy people; so many countries. It was really very nice.”

Aviation brings people from all over the world together. Steve said he believes that the sky doesn’t care if you’re rich, poor, or what language you speak. You’re part of a bigger group where everyone is equal.

Lesly and Susan explained that in Hungary they treat aircraft di erently. All

the military airplanes are blocked off from the public; everything is a secret kept under lock and key. They are amazed that in America, they could get close enough to touch an airplane. The idea of meeting with the pilot of the aircraft and sitting inside their cockpit was unheard of in their home country.

“The people [at Oshkosh] are so open, and they are so friendly. And the mentality about life and about aviation and about other nationality people, they don’t make a di erence,” Susan said through translation with Agnes. “They are happy to share what they have.” The exchange of knowledge in aviation with others is a gift that is best shared at EAA.

AROUND THE GROUNDS

THE TWO FLAGS

BY JIM ROBERTS AIRVENTURE TODAY STAFF

WHEN THE 2024 Yellow Ribbon Honor Flight departed Wittman Regional Airport on Friday morning, July 26, a unique passenger was on board. Accompanying the 100 local Vietnam veterans was a 3-by-5-foot American flag, affectionately known as “Flag Junior.” Prior to his flight to Washington, D.C., “Junior” had arrived from Edwards Air Force Base on the glareshield of a Boeing B-52 Stratofortress. His journey before that took him to Normandy, France, for the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion. How, you might ask, does an American flag rack up so many frequent flyer miles, and on such distinguished flights?

Flag Junior’s journey was orchestrated by two Appleton, Wisconsin, patriots, Diana Leonard and Bill Johnston, founders of THE2FLAGS. The

program’s motto is “Inspiring Youth Through Aviation.” The vehicle for this inspiration is a family of four American flags and their website, The2Flags.com; there, kids can read about the flags’ journeys and see photos of their adventures.

Bill, a veteran, said the idea for transporting American flags in the cockpits of military aircraft originated in 2015, when he arranged for a flag to travel from EAA AirVenture Oshkosh to Barksdale AFB, Louisiana. From there, the program literally took off, and has grown from the original two U.S. flags, “Flag Senior” and “Flag Junior,” through the addition of two Wisconsin state flags, “MS WIS” and “Missy.”

TWO FLAGS / PAGE 23

U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Robert Patterson (L), a Congressional Medal of Honor recipient, with Flag Junior during the Yellow Ribbon Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL JOHNSTON

22 / TWO FLAGS

Each flag has its own logbook, signed by the aircrew and noting flight details. Along with photos from the flights, the narratives of the flags’ adventures offer life lessons for all. Diana said, “Our first plan was to just try to get kids to think about something other than being on their phones all the time.”

On the website, she said, youngsters can follow the flags’ journeys and “learn life lessons, such as how to plan, how to be a team player and communicate, and how to pivot if your goal doesn’t turn out to be what you thought it was going to be.” As an example she related the story of an EA-18G Growler pilot whose life plan after college didn’t pan out. He eventually became a successful Navy pilot and squadron commander, because he was able to pivot his expectations and goals.

Diana said that as word of the flags’ travels spread, requests began coming in from pilots asking to carry a flag. “The pilots and the veterans just love it. We had an F-15E Strike Eagle pilot ask to take a flag to Europe to train with NATO.” And Bill said, “If you qualify, we will give you the honor of flying with this flag.”

So back to the question, how did Flag Junior get to Normandy? A request came in from an F-18 pilot in Japan, asking, “Can I have the flag for a while?” From there it went to Honolulu for a visit to the Battleship Missouri memorial, then on to Iwo Jima. After returning to the U.S., it departed on an Honor Flight mission to Normandy. Diana said, “I don’t think there would be anything more precious to the veterans than an American flag that had flown on the Missouri and Iwo Jima, and was now at Normandy.”

Bill wrapped up the interview by presenting me with a 2FLAGS challenge coin, and noted, “As a thank-you to people for flying our flags, we present them with a challenge coin.” If you’d like to purchase a coin of your own or want to donate to the program, visit The2Flags.com. It is truly a worthy cause, and an investment in the future.

To purchase a challenge coin of your own or donate to the program, visit The2Flags.com.

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A B-52 crew displays Flag Junior upon arrival at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024. PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL JOHNSTON

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INNOVATIONS

Nonstop Across the Atlantic

BY ANDREA VENTURINI

A NONSTOP ATLANTIC crossing, from Scotland to Canada, a trip that typically can only be done via airliner, was achieved on June 14, 2024, in a two-seat, Rotaxpowered Risen SuperVeloce. It all started last December, with a phone call I received from Alberto Porto, designer of the Risen, who ultimately asked me to bring the airplane to Oshkosh for AirVenture.

Alberto had previously delivered another SuperVeloce to the United States via the classic North Atlantic route — Scotland, Iceland, Greenland, Canada. This time, however, the plans were way more ambitious: The idea was to fly nonstop, leaving from Stornoway, Scotland. Basically doing something that only the SuperVeloce can do — fly at a speed of more than 160 knots, with 20 knots of headwind consuming only 4.5 gph.

The first comment I heard was: “It is not possible.” Instead I thought, “Well … let’s see if it’s really impossible; the airplane is here, the two ‘crazy’ pilots are here. For me the mission is already done!”

We still have to analyze the flight data in detail, but the approximate summary is this: We left from Voghera, Italy, with only one straight route and landed at the Outer Hebridean islands, Scotland, the only fuel stop before the big leg.

The ocean route, directly from the Hebrides to Canada, was 1,850 nautical miles flown in 11.5 hours using only 43 gallons of fuel. The average speed was estimated to be between 165 and 200 knots, covering a total of 4,050 nautical miles using a little more than 100 gallons.

The ocean crossing, against the wind toward the west, in an aircraft with a gross weight of about 1,300 pounds, and without stops either in Greenland or Iceland for refueling, is now a reality. An incredible flight has just been completed with a recreational aircraft, all thanks to the extremely e cient design. The secret of the Risen relies precisely on this:

efficient and clean aerodynamics that allow you to make the best use of the engine. All of this is available to pilots, whether you want to break a speed record or just cruise along at 2.1 gph.

When we arrived at Goose Bay, in spite of the strong headwind, we still had about three hours of fuel. The Risen is not only a clean and efficient aircraft, with its V-tail and load-bearing fuselage, but it’s also spacious and comfortable with the largest canopy surface in the category. After sitting for almost 12 hours straight, I can assure you there aren’t any other seats side by side with the same comforts.

The Risen rested at Oshkosh until it was put on display for EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. Alberto flew back to Milan the next day while I visited my daughter in Boston, where I delivered a speech about the epic flight at the club in Simsbury, Connecticut, where I first got my FAA private certificate. I also visited EAA Chapter 324, which gave me a warm welcome. Then, Alberto and I returned to Oshkosh and spent the week answering questions about our epic flight.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ANDREA VENTURINI

EAA to Receive Engine Cutaway Model for Youth Center

BY BARBARA A. SCHMITZ AIRVENTURE TODAY STAFF

DELTAHAWK ENGINES INC. will donate its full-scale working engine cutaway model of its DHK180 engine to the EAA Youth Education Center after the end of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. Until then, the cutaway model can be seen in its booth outside Hangar D.

Dennis Webb, director of marketing and certification, said EAA asked if DeltaHawk would consider the donation, and they agreed. “I wish we had been proactive and thought of it first; we love doing this type of thing,” he said.

“Our passion for aviation runs in our blood,” Dennis said. “We want to see general aviation grow and prosper, and part of that is getting youth engaged and educating them.”

The engine was 20 years in the making and serves as inspiration on how engineers can make old products new.

“Our founder saw the need and was frustrated that airplanes flying were still using 1940s technology,” Dennis said.

They’re not fuel e cient, and they’re finicky to operate compared to a car.

While fuel availability isn’t a problem in the United States, it is in other nations. But jet fuel was available everywhere. So DeltaHawk set about to deliver a compact, lightweight, jet-powered diesel engine that would be simple to maintain and o er greater fuel e ciency and fuel availability around the world, Dennis said. Naturally, the engine would also need to be FAA certified.

Dennis said DeltaHawk supports other youth initiatives. It has a relationship with Racine, Wisconsin, high schoolers, hoping to get them passionate about aviation, and they also o er internships for technical school and college students.

“Some never dreamed of an aviation career before they became involved with us,” he said. “But they have gone on to become pilots, A&P mechanics, and engineers.”

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY

DeltaHawk mechanical engineer Eli Dzurino explains how the DHK180 works to David Roth, EAA 625885, of Corrales, New Mexico.

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Ballet and Airplanes, Grace and Discipline

BY ROBBIE CULVER AIRVENTURE TODAY STAFF

BALLET, AIRPLANES, GRACE, DISCIPLINE.

For Mary Elizabeth Kurek, EAA 1333410 and current Ray Aviation scholar for EAA Chapter 461 in Bolingbrook, Illinois, these ideas fit well together. Ballet and airplanes. Her friends and extended family know her as “M.E.,” and I know her as a young lady I have been mentoring as she learns to fly, trying to inspire the future of aviation. She is more family than friend, and a personal inspiration to me with her strength, grace, discipline, and dignity.

Her mother Amy Reeb, EAA 1333411, asked me to take some photos of M.E. on Thursday, July 25, out on the flightline. Of course I said yes. Oh — and the photos? M.E. was in full ballet mode. Now, you may think dance and flying aircraft do not mix; I would say they do. Both involve grace, and both involve discipline.

Grace — the elegance and form of the movement, each one executed to perfection. Discipline — the mental strength

and focus required to go back and do it over, and over, and over again until the muscle memory matches the ideal. Sounds like pattern work. Doing so in a studio or on stage is one thing, but doing it in the grass at AirVenture, slick with morning dew, that’s something else altogether.

Seven a.m. comes early at Oshkosh, but we were out in the morning sunshine, shooting as planned by the homebuilts. For all the planned poses and well-considered angles, it was the unexpected opportunity that made for the best images.

We took some in front of my Sonex, and then as I was putting the canopy cover back on, a line of T-28s pulled up on the taxiway at an angle and began their morning run-up. The roar and snarl were the perfect symphony of AirVenture in the morning, and the props left vapor trails in the still morning air. Amy had M.E. run over and start

OSHKOSH MOMENTS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBBIE CULVER

dancing across the edge of the homebuilt parking area in front of the T-28s.

I dropped what I was doing and sprinted over to capture the moment. Mary Elizabeth posed and danced and smiled and posed again. I could only imagine what the pilots were thinking, other than, “Please don’t go past the edge of the showline!” We didn’t.

Amy and Mary Elizabeth had arranged ahead of time to do some poses in front of “The Pink Jet” (ThePinkJet.org), and pilot Stephanie Goetz even let her up in the cockpit. In Saturday’s issue of AirVenture Today , EAA Publications Intern Angela Satterlee wrote this about the aircraft: “‘The Pink Jet’ is not just a pretty airplane; it is also a symbol for every woman struggling with breast cancer. Steve Oakley, EAA 1417153, is the founder of Aerial Angels out of Burbank, California, with his wife, Jamie Oakley, EAA 1417154.” They own the pink L-39 Albatros and brought it to Oshkosh for its world debut.

Stephanie gave M.E. a big hug after the photos were taken.

Inspiring the future of aviation — with grace and discipline.

Now, you may think dance and flying aircraft do not mix; I would say they do. Both involve grace, and both involve discipline.

PAGE 26 / BALLET AND AIRPLANES

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBBIE CULVER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY REEB

AFIMSC SHOWCASING INSTALLATION TECH, TOOLS AT AIRVENTURE

TEAMS FROM THE Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center have demonstrated their cutting-edge technology along with that of the other five Air Force Materiel Command centers this week at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh.

AFMC is the featured Air Force major command at AirVenture this year, and its six centers have provided displays, demonstrations, and hands-on activities to showcase how the command powers America’s Air and Space forces.

While every unit within AFMC plays a key role in delivering winning capabilities to the warfighter, it is the men and women of AFIMSC who specialize in ensuring airmen and guardians have the capable power projection platforms they need to fly, fight, and win in air and space.

“Our global team of more than 4,000 members delivers installation and mission support capabilities to 83 Department of the Air Force installations to enable their power projection, mission execution, and quality-of-life enhancement programs for military members and their families,” said Maj. Gen. John Allen, AFIMSC commander. “We pride ourselves in our innovations and initiatives that leverage data and technology to field capabilities faster, better, and cheaper, which is even more critical in this period of great power competition.”

During AirVenture, the center has been showcasing two programs that are impacting missions all over the world: the Geospatial Engineering Office and Civil Engineer Lab.

Geospatial Engineering O ce

The Air Force Civil Engineer Center’s Geospatial Engineering O ce supports the Air Force GeoBase program from headquarters to installations. The o ce enables the delivery of trusted geospatial engineering data, maps, and services to build, maintain, and recover power projection platforms for Air and Space forces and their mission partners.

Recently, the o ce helped Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota, with an aircraft mishap investigation. Its rapid response small unmanned aerial systems team quickly collected and delivered 2D and 3D imagery to the local commander and interim safety board to aid the investigation.

“GeoBase is the ‘One Base, One Map’ solution for the Air Force enterprise, showing commanders the quantity, location, and real-time operational status of

property, material, and capability on their installations,” said James Ray, geographic information system specialist.

“Our goal is to create a unified database and mapping system enabling many applications, including disaster response, expeditionary operations, aircraft mishap investigations, installation management, and force protection,” he said.

People stopping by the GeoBase display can learn about GIS technology and discover how the programs support the enterprise. Hands-on demonstrations will allow people to explore flying areas around select Air Force bases and the Oshkosh area.

Civil Engineer Lab

The Air Force CE Lab performs science, technology, research, development, testing, and evaluation activities to put new or improved capabilities into the hands of civil engineers. Examples of technologies developed and delivered include systems for repairing water and fuel assets following an attack or damage, the Rapid Airfield Damage Assessment System, and explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) robots.

“All the work we do is for the warfighter,” said Dr. Bobby Diltz, airfield recovery subject matter expert at the lab. “We develop technologies to protect, support, or augment the warfighter so they have the best tools and equipment to safely and e ciently do their jobs.”

The lab has showcased robotic heavy equipment, EOD robots, 3D-printed cement examples, and augmented and virtual reality technology demonstrations at the air show.

“We’re excited for people to stop by and take a look at what our team can do,” Diltz said.

A small unmanned aerial system captures imagery from a hangar on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey. AFCEC’s Geospatial Engineering Office enables the delivery of trusted geospatial engineering data, maps, and services to build, maintain, and recover power projection platforms for Air and Space forces and their mission partners. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BRIAN J. VALENCIA

Collin Hays, lead robotics developer for Torch Technologies, operates an unmanned armored loader at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, during an Air Force Civil Engineer Laboratory demonstration, May 30, 2024. The Air Force CE Lab performs science, technology, research, development, testing, and evaluation activities to put new or improved capabilities into the hands of civil engineers.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BRIAN GODDIN

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AROUND THE GROUNDS

AFMC Road to Oshkosh and AirVenture

BY AIR FORCE MATERIEL COMMAND

WHEN AIRVENTURE 2024 showgoers visit the Air Force tents on Aviation Gateway Park, they are greeted by approximately 200 airmen from Air Force Materiel Command.

“From aircrew, engineers, human resources, technicians, STEM professionals, and uniformed airmen, we have all of our equities represented from our six centers,” said Curtiss Petrek, AFMC deputy director of sta and designated lead. “Our challenge will be to distill down what we do to give visitors a small glimpse of what AFMC airmen do every day.”

As the featured Air Force command for AirVenture 2024, AFMC expertly planned and prepared for the execution of their support to Oshkosh.

The people of AFMC make up a global organization at 170 locations, which executes 45 percent of the Air Force budget.

“With such a large footprint, coordinating to bring the displays was time intensive,” said Rachael Ferguson, AFMC designated logistics lead. “In the end, we were able to successfully ship, truck, and airlift all of the displays showgoers will interact with at both of our tents.”

Although it has a large test mission, AFMC does not own many aircraft. The team scheduled some test aircraft to sit static. They include the B-52, F-15EX, T-38, and C-12. The B-52 aircraft is displayed front and center at Boeing Plaza.

The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force also contributed to the e ort by providing artifacts to display such as the X-40 — the first-phase flight test vehicle for the U.S. Air Force’s Space Maneuver Vehicle program that began in the late 1990s.

“For a majority of displays, special crating had to be built to protect the

up to 60% on theme parks, hotels, Broadway shows, major events, and more!

assets, particularly the museum artifacts,” said Ferguson. “When we began our setup and installation on Saturday and Sunday, everything and everyone arrived safely.”

In a show of total force, the USAF Reserve and Air National Guard played critical airlift roles to get the people and equipment to Oshkosh.

The Reserve’s 445th Airlift Wing o ered to assist with their C-17, and the Connecticut Guard contributed with their D-Day-inspired paint scheme C-130.

AFMC traces its heritage back to 1917. Although there has been an evolution over the years, one constant

remains — building a technologically superior Air Force and providing worldwide logistics support.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF DANIEL PETERSON, USAF

BY ABIGAIL OLENICZAK

LOOKING FOR A flying career? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook through 2023 for airline and commercial pilots is up 4 percent.

SkyWest airlines recruiter Alyssa Nice said the airline has recently gained new routes, and, as a result, the pilot need has increased.

Compared to the past few years, SkyWest is projected to fill first o cer pilot positions for the next six to eight

Tips to Become a SkyWest Pilot Props to Hartzell for Quality, Performance, and Support

BY BARBARA A. SCHMITZ

THE ACQUISITION OF Hartzell Aviation in 2023 provides “significant opportunity” to accelerate growth, allowing the company to expand on its product o erings, according to senior executives.

Arcline Investment Management acquired Hartzell Aviation, including its propeller and engine tech divisions, from Tailwind Technologies, in October 2023.

JJ Frigge, president of Hartzell Propeller, said he sees the acquisition “pushing the limits of excellence in general aviation,” while allowing them to prioritize quality, performance, and support.

In addition, Hartzell Propeller’s February 2024 acquisition of WhirlWind Propeller Corp.

months, she said. Applicants should be current and stay active with flying before filling out an employment form.

Submit applications through SkyWest.com, and a company pilot will review it. Current pilots lead the interview and assess whether the applicant presents themselves as someone who would be receptive of instruction, but who would also work well together with the SkyWest team.

If successful, about four months later a job offer with class date will be assigned, Alyssa said.

After the application and acceptance for interview, SkyWest hopes to hire teachable pilots who want to learn. Recruiters are available to talk to and answer questions and can be found at EAA Aviation Gateway Park in the EAA Career Center.

complements what they already do, he said, allowing them to expand into the light-sport and unmanned markets.

In addition, in the Tuesday press conference, JJ said:

Hartzell and Wipaire are expecting FAA approval for the Yukon, a fourbladed carbon composite prop that allows for a 25 percent shorter takeo and a 20-pound weight savings.

Hartzell’s three-bladed carbon fiber Polaris prop is now o ered as a factory option on new Diamond DA40 NG four-seaters.

Hartzell Propeller will deliver 30,000 propellers under its Top Prop Conversion Program this year, with new propellers going onto existing airplanes.

The company is also working on getting products into customers’ hands more quickly. “Our goal is to have a propeller available within a two-week lead

time,” JJ said. That’s “back to our target lead times, and we want to bring WhirlWind into that as well.”

Keith Bagley, president of Hartzell Engine Tech, said several other acquisitions will help them further expand their product portfolio:

• Kelly Aero: Aircraft ignition systems. “We have almost anything under the cowling now,” Keith said.

• Approved Turbo Components: Enhances existing turbocharger overhaul and repair capabilities. With the expanded capabilities will come improvements in lead time, Keith said.

Hartzell is also getting into advanced air mobility. “We think we have some competitive advantages that carry over from the general aviation market,” Keith said.

(2) 2025 Weekly wristbands (1) Week of Sun n Fun camping

(2) Airline flight vouchers

(2) Passes to Bok Tower Gardens

(2) Passes to LEGOLAND (2) Passes to Living Water Boat Tour

AIRVENTURE TODAY STAFF

AROUND THE GROUNDS

Scholler Shorts

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY KAITLIN PIETTE AIRVENTURE TODAY STAFF

THE GATHERING OF the puppy corral is made up of Valerie Biester and her three rescue dogs, Bojangles, Cessna, and Hansy, along with Brian, Josette, and Addison Peterson and their three dogs, Duncan, Molly, and Milo. Valerie has been attending AirVenture for 47 years and volunteering since 2012 at the departure briefing. She once took a ride in the B-17 Aluminum Overcast , and remembers feeding a cow through the fence while camping at Scholler back when she was 5 years old. This year she looks forward to “pilot shopping” with her daughter once she arrives at AirVenture. Brian has been attending EAA since 1999 and Josette since 2004. As a family, they have been coming for 10 consecutive years. Back in

2009, they bought a brick at the Brown Arch and were able to get a photo with it the following year. They remember the year of Sploshkosh and having to relocate in an attempt to stay dry. This year Brian hopes to have some bonding time with his son Collin, who is a pilot, and all around having family time together.

First time exhibitor at AirVenture Bart Struyf from Belgium and his wife from Bogota, Colombia, who now live in Sao Paulo, Brazil, attended their first AirVenture last year with their son Marcel. They are now back with niece Pia and some shiny Kombi Volkswagens they are selling at the show this year. Kombi Brazil is their company name, where they sell customized cars and ship them all over the world. They loved the AirVenture environment last year and can’t wait to see how

WE LOVE OUR EXHIBITORS!

EAA is thankful for our long-term exhibitors and welcomes our new ones for 2022! EAA is thankful for our long-term exhibitors and welcomes our new ones for 2024!

50 YEARS

Aviation Jewelry.com H SUN ‘n FUN, Inc.

40

YEARS

Aircraft Tool Supply

Concorde Battery Corporation

CubCrafters Group H Floats & Fuel Cells, Inc

Para-Phernalia, Inc. H UMA Inc

University of North Dakota Aviation

WACO Classic Aircraft Corporation

Whelen Aerospace Technologies, LLC

30

YEARS

Aircraft Electronics Association

Aviat Aircraft Inc H Boeing Company (The)

CAV Systems H David Clark Company Inc.

Elizabeth The Gold Lady

FlightSafety International

FRASCA H G & N Aircraft Inc

Jeppesen, A Boeing Company

Lincoln Electric H NASA

Oregon Aero Inc H Parker Piper Aircraft, Inc.

Superior Air Parts, Inc.

Wisconsin Aviation, Inc.

Women in Aviation International Yaesu USA

20

YEARS

Advocate Consulting Legal Group, PLLC

African Elephant Hair Bracelets by Safari Jewelry

American Legend Aircraft Company

Honda Aircraft Company, LLC H Horizon Hobby, LLC

MGL Avionics H Miller Clock Service, Inc.

North American Aerospace Defense Command

Plane Plastic Vantage Assoc H Powrachute LLC

SMR Technologies | Ice Shield Deicing Systems

Stewart Systems H ZClear Anti Fog Inc.

10

YEARS

Air Race Classic, Inc H Ballistic Recovery Systems, Inc.

Bristell Aircraft LLC H Dakota Cub Aircraft

David UHL Studios, Inc. H Flight Outfitters

Flying Legend USA Inc H Midwest Parajet LLC

National WASP WWII Museum

Original Safety Siphon (The)

Parkland College - Institute of Aviation

Phoenix East Aviation, LLC H PilotSafety.org

Porter

County Regional Airport H Prusa Research, a.s.

PSA Airlines H Rachel’s Jewelry, LLC

runway THREE-SIX H Silverlight Aviation

SoCo Swings H SoundEx Products / Plane Patterns

State of Minnesota - Aeronautics H Tanis Aircraft

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company

Weldon Pump LLC H Willey Art

this AirVenture goes, being a first-time vendor! At home, Bart flies a 1957 Cessna Centurion and took an extensive flight from France to Sao Paulo last year, making some stops in between. They are excited to meet more people to share moments and make memories as a family, spread joy within the AirVenture community, and see the excitement of the night air show. Bart is truly thankful for the great coordination EAA has provided, allowing them to do business this year.

WELCOME NEW EXHIBITORS

1st Pick Antiques & Vintage LLC H 360 Avionics H A Spice Above H A-10 Aviation Products H Academy of Aviation H Adept Propulsion Technologies, Inc. H Advanced Powerplant Solutions (APS) H Aerotranscendent Inc. H Aeroverse Media, LLC H Affection Above Aviation H Aileronics Inc H Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) H Airbility Inc. H Aircraft Components INC. H All American Gutter Protection H American Airlines, Inc. H Art-Craft Optical H Atlanta Air Recovery and Exchange H AV8 Realty H AV8R GEAR H Aviation Depot H Aviation International UK H Aviator Cookie Company H Barking Pixel H Bessie Coleman Foundation H Bluff City Aircraft H Brainomat LLC Brewer Brothers H Brown & Miller Racing Solutions H Buiqui Aerospace and Eagle Aircrat Flight Academy H Callsign Aviation H Capitol Technology University H CCFM AVIATION SRL H Cicare USA H Colorado Division of Aeronautics / Colorado Pilots Association H Co-Pilot Goose | AeroSys Technologies Inc. H CU Student Choice H DRMIDWEST LLC H EarthRoamer H Eastern Iowa Airport Aviation Workforce Development Campus H eDispatched H Elivate Aircraft H Elmarx Aviation Inc. H Enhanced Aero LLC. H ESC Photography LLC H Executive Aircraft / ARGON Aircraft H Fit 4 Flight Coaching H Flightclub.life H Fly-Inn, LLC H FP-PROPELLER srl H Gary’s Garage H Hangar H High Country Products, Inc H Icon Wallets H Jimmy’s World LLC H JME Technologies, Inc. H Kestrel Aerospace H KOMBI BRAZIL INC H Leading Edge PPG H LGM USA H Mac’s Custom Tiedowns H MasterPilot H MCE Aero H Midwest Eco Pavers LLC H Midwest Pepper Heads LLC H Nicholas Air H Nifty-Lift H NMDOT Aviation Division H NovoFlight Technologies H NUNCATS CIC H Oakley / Rayban H Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals H Orlican Americas - Eagle M8 H Pegasus H Pelegrin LLC H Phoenix Replica Aircraft H Pik West Insurance Agency, LLC H Pilot Mental Health Campaign (PMHC) H Pioneer Control Grips H Pitman

What About These Other Airplanes?

A spotter’s guide to the EAA Aviation Museum aircraft around the grounds

EVERY YEAR, MORE than 10,000 aircraft fly to Wisconsin for AirVenture. Of those, nearly 3,000 are showplanes — vintage aircraft, warbirds, homebuilts, aerobatic airplanes, etc. — that are displayed around the grounds. But some visitors may notice other airplanes parked here and there that didn’t fly in at all, because they’re part of the EAA Aviation Museum collection. Because our museum exhibits rotate, many of these aircraft are only viewable by the public during AirVenture, spending the rest of the year in long-term storage on the convention grounds. Here’s a guide to some of these airplanes that you’ll see as you wander the neighborhoods of AirVenture.

1926

Ford Flivver Replica

In the mid-1920s, Henry Ford wanted to build an “everyman’s airplane,” the flying counterpart to the Model T. This replica was built in 1991 by members of EAA Chapter 159 of Saginaw, Michigan, with help from the original designer, Otto Koppen, to airworthy standards but was never flown. The only other Flivver, the sole remaining prototype, is on display at the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan.

Pilot Proficiency Center

EAA’s Pilot Proficiency Center

is a skill-building and training facility for those with a desire to increase their knowledge and hone their abilities. Stop by the center the week of AirVenture to try out a Redbird Simulator and test your flying skills!

Visit EAA.org/PPC for more information on available resources, training, classes, and more.

Sponsored by:

Supported by:

PRIMARY LOGO

AROUND THE GROUNDS

Making Dreams Come True One New Year’s Resolution at a Time

BY ANGELA SATTERLEE AIRVENTURE TODAY STAFF

FLYING FROM HIS home in Aberdeen, Scotland, to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh for the first time in his Bristell NG5 was the longest trip Bill Miazek, EAA 1601589, has ever flown. This is Bill’s third trip to AirVenture, but he’d flown commercially in the past.

Bill’s journey took him exactly one week to complete, with six major stops in Reykjavík, Iceland; Kangerlussauq, Greenland; Iqaluit, Canada; Chapais, Canada; Lancaster, Pennsylvania; and the last stop of his flying excursion in Oshkosh. The whole trip was just shy of 5,000 miles! Bill and his airplane are located at the Bristell booth, No. 449, and can be found with a map documenting his entire trip, which he is proud to share.

One of many sights Bill was able to see traveling from Scotland was when he flew over a glacier in Greenland at 12,500 feet. Along with an unbelievable experience flying through the Arctic Circle. But Bill said the highlight of his trip was meeting so many di erent people along the way, creating connections and making friends on the trip and while here at Oshkosh.

Bill said he has always been fascinated by the idea of flying — defying gravity is remarkable to him. In

2017, Bill decided he was going to make his lifelong dream come true and become a pilot.

“I’ve been flying for six-and-a-half years, always wanted to do it all my life,” Bill explained. “In 2017, it was my New Year resolution to learn to fly.”

In January, he bought his first aircraft, and just nine months later, he acquired his pilot license. Before then Bill felt like he never had the time for flying, but all that has changed. Now his European version of the Classic 915iS Turbo Bristell is the newest, and the fourth aircraft of his in the last few years. He completed the build himself from a kit in only five months. A few delays later his airplane was ready for takeo to AirVenture.

Bill’s dream of becoming a pilot is now a reality. He flies all over Europe to Germany, France, Austria, the Czech Republic, and other countries just for fun. And he keeps his airplanes on his own airfield in Scotland, which he said is uncommon because of the relatively small number of general aviation airports in Scotland.

Young Bill would be proud of how far he’s flown, and the experiences he’s had, just going places, seeing sites, and doing it all by airplane. Dreams do come true.

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REGISTER TO WIN a Cleveland Wheels & Brakes prize pack Stop by Cleveland’s KidVenture display and REGISTER TO WIN a Cleveland Wheels & Brakes prize pack when you connect with us on Facebook!

One prize given away daily!

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAITLIN PIETTE

Sa the Date

MEET AOPA AT THESE GREAT EVENTS

Sept. 23-29, 2024

TRIPLE TREE FLY-IN

Triple Tree Aerodrome (SC00) Woodru , SC

Feb. 14-16, 2025

AOPA FLY-IN AT BUCKEYE AIR FAIR

Buckeye Municipal Airport (KBXK)

Buckeye, AZ

AROUND THE GROUNDS

A Spotter’s Guide to Allied Aircraft of 1944

EIGHTY YEARS AGO, the world was five years deep in the greatest conflict in human history. While millions had died and many millions more had their lives completely upended, the end was finally on the horizon — at least in hindsight. By 1944, it was starting to become apparent that the Allies were gaining the upper hand in World War II. In the Pacific theater, the Americans had much of the southwestern Pacific under its control, capturing island after island and pushing the Japanese back. On the European theater’s eastern front, the Soviet Union was steadily overpowering the German Wehrmacht. And on the western front, the United States and Britain were constantly pounding Germany with strategic bombing raids and, along with Canada and several other Allied countries, launched the largest amphibious assault in history on June 6, 1944, during D-Day, the Normandy landings.

As we look back on the 80th anniversary of D-Day and the many crucial events of 1944 this summer during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024, you can expect to see a wide variety of aircraft that played roles during the “turning of the tide.” The following is a list of some of the aircraft that were in the service of the Allies during that pivotal year, and that may be in Oshkosh this year. Note: Not all of these aircraft will attend Oshkosh this year, nor at the time of this writing do we know definitively which ones will be attending, so keep your eyes open as you wander the grounds.

Avro Lancaster : Introduced in 1942, the Lancaster served as the primary Royal Air Force heavy bomber in the later years of the war, taking part in many of the key strategic bombing raids over Germany.

Supermarine Spitfire: Although the legendary British Spitfire is most famous for its role during 1940’s Battle of Britain, it continued to be produced and upgraded throughout the war and served in a number of roles in the European, Mediterranean, Pacific, and Southeast Asian theaters.

UC-43/GB-1: As the military version of the Beechcraft Model 17 Staggerwing, the UC-43 Traveler (designated the GB-1/GB-2 by the Navy) was used as a light liaison aircraft, and it had only minor di erences from the civilian model.

Ryan PT-22 Recruit: As the military version of the Ryan ST, the PT-22 was developed in 1941 as a primary trainer for U.S. Army Air Corps pilots and served through the remainder of WWII.

N3N: Built for the U.S. Navy by the Naval Aircraft Factory in the mid-1930s, the N3N served as a biplane primary trainer during WWII. Although production ended in 1942, the type was used through the end of the war.

SB2C Helldiver: Developed by Curtiss to replace the Dauntless, the Helldiver became the primary dive bomber for the U.S. Navy by the end of WWII and participated in many of the large battles from 1943 onward.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIM KOEPNICK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS MILLER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAUL HANNAH

EAA ARCHIVE PHOTO

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVE WITTY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LORÉN HANNAH

Today’s SCHEDULE

SNOWBIRDS AIR SHOW

AirVenture visitors, volunteers, and pilots should be aware that the Canadian Forces Snowbirds performances require a larger aerobatic box necessitating a move of the crowd line to the west during the afternoon air shows Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, July 26, 27, and 28.

CROWD LINE IN EFFECT AFTER:

> 1:15 p.m. on Friday, July 26

> 1:15 p.m. on Saturday, July 27

> Noon on Sunday, July 28

OWNER AND CREW ACCESS TO AIRCRAFT REQUIRES A SECURITY ESCORT TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL TASKS:

> 1:15 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday > Noon to 2:45 p.m. on Sunday

ABSOLUTELY NO ACCESS: > 4:30

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ED HICKS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTOPHER LOHFF

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEWIS BERGHOFF

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEWIS BERGHOFF

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CRAIG VANDER KOLK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEX MILLER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVE WITTY

Young Eagles

the Next Generation Inspire

Flying Young Eagles® is more than just providing free flights for youths; it’s about sharing your passion for flight and igniting dreams. Stop by the EAA Blue Barn and learn about becoming a volunteer Young Eagles pilot!

Next steps also available at EAA.org/YEPilots

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVE SWARTZ

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ED HICKS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TOM CROCKETT

Clay Lacy with a group of UND Student Air Academy Counselors who will teach the Joe Clark and Clay Lacy Scholarship recipients. EAA PHOTO

How well do you know

EAA history?

TRY YOUR HAND at these trivia questions and find out.

When the enormous Soviet Antonov An-124 visited EAA Oshkosh in 1989, it carried what other Russian airplane in its cargo bay?

A. Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-17

B. Yakovlev Yak-3

C. Ilyushin Il-2

D. Sukhoi Su-26

SATURDAY 7/27 ANSWER: Two (1990)

SUNDAY 7/28 ANSWER: D. Sukhoi Su-26

Look for these songs on your favorite streaming service and build a personal soundtrack for your trip to the World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration.

Leaving on a Jet Plane

by John Denver

Still

I

Fly

by Spencer Lee

Outbound Plane

by Tom Russell and Suzy Bogguss

Just a

Song Before

I

Go

by Crosby, Stills & Nash

Flying by the Beatles

SUNDAY, JULY 28, 2024

ACROSS:

2. The Spirit of _____.

6. Something you get after a checkride. (Two words)

7. We’ve done hundreds of these online presentations.

8. Us.

9. What a DPE gives.

10. The thing that will bring Sport Pilot 2.0.

DOWN:

1. Once you solo, you’re a _____.

3. To find the heart of EAA, join your local one of these.

4. Supporting EAA is a great way to leave one.

5. There are millions of them, and we couldn’t be more proud – nor more committed to making more. (Two words)

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ED HICKS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRETT BROCK

OSHKOSH MOMENTS

YOUR JOURNEY. YOUR OSHKOSH.

FROM FIRST ARRIVAL to final takeo and everything in between, we want to see AirVenture through your eyes. Check out today’s featured social shots of the day! Share your highlights on social media using #OSH24 to possibly be featured in a future issue of AirVenture Today!

@ka.telyn6789 what can i say, i love the F-22. had a great 2 days up in oshkosh at EAA

@flying_with_emerson so happy to be here <3 first of many oshkosh posts to come.

@eric_betsworth

Well that’s a wrap on EAA Oshkosh 2024 for us and it was definitely one for the books. Being there just reminded me so much of the amazing technology in the aviation industry! I loved every minute of it, from sitting in a freakin BLACKHAWK HELICOPTER, to watching a Waco Bi-plane with a jet engine strapped on it perform the most amazing stunts and getting up close and personal with an F-22 and everything in between the day could not have been better! We also rode all the way out there on the bikes too which was fantastic and I loved it.

P.S whole other post to come of just airplanes cuz I absolutely loaded my camera roll that day

@kate.em.cc

Got to hang out with my favorite Delta legend, Randy again! If you don’t know Randy, he has worked with Delta in many roles over the years, especially on the ramp and is now with Delta Elite Services driving the Porsche at DTW. He’s become a good friend over the years and brings class and style to work every day! Thank you so much for braving the crowds and cell networks to track me down, Randy! You are the best #eaa #osh24 #airventure #planethings #thingsthathappen #aviationfamily

@flymoorefast @eaa #AirVenture 2024! #TeamCessna

@mary_in_the_airy OSH #3, I think you are my new favorite

• I am so thankful for all the new people I met and things I got to see! I will forever love you Oshkosh, until next year

@ lisacalii another epic year at Osh!

@ alise.sewell EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024!!!