EAA AirVenture Friday, July 26, 2024

FRIDAY, JULY

A quantum leap forward

Bruce Landsberg, Former Vice Chair, NTSB

Meet Skyryse One,TM powered by SkyOS , TM the simplest, safest, and smartest aircraft in the sky @ booth 420

BY JIM ROBERTS

FROM THE DAY the Aeronautical Corporation of America set up shop in 1928 at Lunken Airport in Cincinnati, until it closed the doors in 1951 in Middletown, Ohio, the company built thousands of personal light airplanes. Known simply as Aeronca, the factory turned out multiple variants, ranging from the single-pilot 36-hp C-3 up to the four-seat, 145-hp 15AC Sedan. During the 1940s, it contributed to the war e ort with the L-3/O58D Defender, a light observation aircraft. More well known today are the side-by-side Model 11 Chief and the ubiquitous tandem-seat 7AC Champion, best known — and loved — as the Champ.

This year at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, a gathering of more than 100 of these aircraft are on site to celebrate the “Aeronca Nation” and the 80th anniversary of the Champ. Wandering the grounds in Vintage aircraft parking, I spoke to some of their proud owners to learn a bit about these aircraft.

Frank Johnson bought his bright orange 1940 Aeronca TC-65 three months ago, “just to fly it here” from his home in Donie, Texas. Frank said the aircraft sat in pieces in a hangar for 50 years before being restored in 2016. The TC-65 is nicknamed the “Tall Chair” because, built as a trainer during World War II, the rear seat sits about 4 inches higher than the front seat so the instructor could better see over the student’s head.

Frank’s trip from Texas, accompanied by a Champ and a Carbon Cub, took six days with stops to visit friends along the way. Frank noted, “At 75 mph, you don’t just go that fast, but we had a ball flying low and slow.”

A few rows over from Frank, I found Kevin Cassin and Nick Biondo enjoying coffee under the wing of Kevin’s 1948 15AC Sedan. Kevin and Nick became fast friends during AirVenture 2019 and make a point to reunite each year. The trip from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, was a relatively short hop for Kevin in the Sedan; it wasn’t so easy for Nick who traveled from Hagåtña (formerly Agaña), Guam, for the reunion!

Kevin and his wife, Bridgid, have owned their Sedan for three years, and Kevin credited Ralph Jacobson for the restoration, completed in 2001. Modifications

include most of the available STCs, including big brakes, a 180-hp Lycoming engine with constant-speed propeller, and seaplane doors on both sides of the fuselage. Kevin said Bridgid, who is also a pilot, “has always loved the aesthetics of an Aeronca,” so when their daughter came along they replaced their Citabria with the Sedan, a decision that Kevin is thrilled with. He’s excited to see so many Sedans on the field this week, noting, “There are at least nine here. I don’t think anybody’s seen that many Sedans together in a long time.”

Farther down the line, I spotted Diane Asher diligently cleaning the windshield on the family Champ. Diane and husband Lonnie flew their 1946 model 7AC from Cape Fair, Missouri, and she noted, “It was the longest flight I’ve ever made in a private plane.” She said the airplane sat in a hangar since 1971 before being restored three years ago, and she and Lonnie have enjoyed ownership for the past two years. When asked what she likes most about the Champ, she said, “We really enjoy flying this little plane, and slowflying around the Missouri hills and Ozark Mountains.”

If an award is given for the shortest distance traveled by an Aeronca to AirVenture, Scott Johnson will win the prize. Scott’s 1942 olive-drab O-58D Defender is based at Wittman Regional Airport, and it was a short taxi from his hangar to Vintage parking.

Scott has owned the airplane for 18 years, and in 2022 he completed a 13-year restoration, bringing it back to its original military configuration. He credited Darrell Khun, a friend and fellow Defender owner, for mentoring him through the work. Darrell advised, “Whatever you do, if you don’t like it, just do it again.” That advice came in handy.

Scott said, “The sheet metal was a big challenge, because it had been converted to a civilian configuration when the Army sold it. They took the metal ‘greenhouse’

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

VICE PRESIDENT OF PUBLICATIONS, MARKETING, MEMBERSHIP, AND RETAIL/EDITOR IN CHIEF: Jim Busha

MANAGING EDITOR: Hal Bryan

SENIOR EDITOR: Sam Oleson

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR: Emme Hornung

EDITORIAL STAFF: Robbie Culver, Jim Roberts, Barb Schmitz

SENIOR COPY EDITOR: Colleen Walsh

COPY EDITOR: Jennifer Knaack

PHOTOGRAPHER: Kaitlin Piette

out and replaced it with a wooden structure covered with fabric over the top, like a Champ.” Scott toiled mightily to restore the bird to its military configuration, declaring, “I wasted a lot of aluminum until I figured out how I was doing it. But that’s how you learn.”

Scott is also indebted to his sister, Tracy Noack, for the beautiful fabric work. Tracy spent years working for the aircraft restoration sta at EAA, and her skills shine in the Defender. You can read the full story of Scott’s restoration in the September/October 2024 issue of Warbirds magazine.

In recognition of the “Aeronca Nation,” there will be numerous seminars throughout the week, and some outstanding examples of the breed are on display in front of the VAA Red Barn. The airplanes and their pilots will also be featured daily at the Red Barn during Vintage in Review presentations.

PUBLICATIONS INTERN: Angela Satterlee

PRINT PRODUCTION TEAM LEAD/GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Marie Rayome-Gill

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Charissa Rathsack, Brandon Wheeler

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER: Holly Chilsen

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR: Michael Sullivan

SENIOR SALES AND ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE: Sue Anderson

Aeronca aircraft fill the Vintage aircraft parking grounds. PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIM ROBERTS

Correction: On Page 4 of yesterday’s newspaper, two photos were incorrectly credited. The photographer’s name is Joy Jefferies, and we regret the error. - Ed.

AIRVENTURE TODAY STAFF

OSHKOSH MOMENTS

ROCK YOUR WINGS!

A visit to Fisk approach

“RV with the wig-wags a half mile before Fisk, rock your wings!”

To a pilot, the words “rock your wings” are almost sacred. They mean we are approaching the small town of Fisk, Wisconsin, on the approach to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh and are about to complete an epic journey to get to the show. We have read the notice to air mission. We’ve flown past Ripon. We’ve followed the railroad tracks. And we are on altitude and airspeed, a half mile in trail. We rock our wings when asked, so the controllers know we heard them, and will follow their instructions.

Almost every pilot will immediately recognize the words, and many will have a tale to tell about their turn doing so. The phrase is synonymous with AirVenture arrivals, as well as the subject of many a hangar tale. Many of us (including this reporter!) have T-shirts with these hallowed words prominently displayed, to show our friends and family that we have, indeed, checked this box on our bucket list.

To air tra c controllers, Fisk approach is part of the “Super Bowl” of ATC, the little aviation event we call AirVenture. Controllers apply for and compete for the opportunity to be part of the “world’s busiest airport” during the event.

Pilots follow a notice to air mission (NOTAM, or “notice”) for the arrival. The notice comes out prior to AirVenture, and all pilots MUST read it prior to departing for the trip. It provides detailed, very specific instructions on how to fly the approach procedure, as well as additional information related to flying in to the world’s busiest airspace.

Fly 1,800 feet at 90 knots or 2,300 feet at 135 knots, and start wherever the Oshkosh automatic terminal information service (ATIS) directs you to do so. Entry

Like most things in aviation, it is not difficult to do the arrival procedure safely and correctly if you follow the instructions! And it is very safe when everyone does what they were told to.

points can be Endeavor Bridge (VPENV), Puckaway Lake (VPPLK), Green Lake (VPGRN), or the town of Ripon (RIPON). The words in parenthesis are VFR waypoints used for navigation by GPS. Look out the window and follow the railroad tracks. Watch for your friends in other aircraft, and stay a half mile behind the one ahead of you.

Like most things in aviation, it is not di cult to do the arrival procedure safely and correctly if you follow the instructions! And it is very safe when everyone does what they were told to.

The following is summarized from the notice (don’t use this for flight planning):

The procedure starts by using one of the ATC designated Transitions to Ripon, WI (15NM SW of OSH), requires visual navigation, and can be supplemented by VFR Waypoints. Pilots then follow a railroad track from

Ripon to Fisk, WI. ATC at Fisk controls tra c flow and assigns OSH landing runways.

Ripon to Fisk: If holding is not in progress, proceed to the northeast corner of Ripon. Proceed single file, directly over the railroad tracks from Ripon northeast to Fisk (10 miles). Remain at least ½ mile in-trail behind any aircraft you are following.

All aircraft must visually navigate directly over the railroad tracks from Ripon to Fisk. If possible, lower your landing gear prior to reaching Fisk. The small town of Pickett is about 4 miles from Fisk (steam from the grain drying facility). After this point, listen very carefully for ATC instructions directed at your aircraft.

The Fisk approach facility itself may surprise you. Many of us picture controllers huddled over radar scopes in a dark, air-conditioned room. In fact, it is a

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY ROBBIE CULVER

AIRVENTURE TODAY STAFF

NEW HEIGHTS.

“I love Oshkosh because everybody that is here wants to be here, volunteers to be here, begs to be here, and it’s like the ‘Super Bowl’ of air traffic.” — Elizabeth Wichmann

trailer located alongside a rural road in small-town Wisconsin, on the rise of a small hill. Out front, a table with four controllers in shorts and high-visibility pink

shirts sit at a table. Two have binoculars, one has a radio, the fourth stands there watching. They work together to coordinate the flow of tra c coming up the railroad tracks that run through Fisk at the bottom of the hill. If you follow the tracks as directed, you literally fly right at the controllers and make their job much easier.

Following Fisk, aircraft are assigned one of two paths, depending on whether they are sent to Runway 9/27 on the north side of the airport, or Runway 18/36 on the south side of the airport. Circumstances dictate what runways are in use and which routes are active. In the case of Runway 18/36, there are also two options, as there is a left and a right 18/36 during AirVenture only.

What may seem like chaos to the unaware is actually an incredibly choreographed and extremely wellplanned set of special air tra c procedures, implemented by the world’s best. Oshkosh is truly one of a kind.

Elizabeth Wichmann, air traffic manager for AirVenture, said the crew consists of 16 teams of four controllers each, and all of those controllers rotate through all the di erent positions. They rotate through Fisk, the Fond du Lac temporary tower, the Mobile Operations and Communications Workstations (MOOCOWs — yes, really, MOO-COWs) that are at the ends of the runways, and two positions in the Oshkosh control tower, north and south.

Controllers typically spend a day or two at each spot, depending on their schedule. There are ATC training materials online months in advance, and there is also a training day prior to AirVenture.

“We think it’s fantastic, and we love that EAA has really gotten out and is working with the FAA very closely to try and perfect the procedures and get the information out to the pilots. We feel like it’s gotten smoother and smoother every year.”

Wichmann also made a point to reach out to prospective future controllers. “Young people should reach out, ask some questions, reach out to the FAA; on the website there is some fantastic information. Definitely get out there and work with local EAA chapters. Also, get into the aviation community because it’s a very small community, but it’s a fantastic community. We work very closely with our local EAA chapter as well. Come out and tour the towers, talk to the controllers — we do a lot of pilot/controller relations and work with them.”

More information may be found at the FAA Aviation Safety Center located in section J-11 of the AirVenture map, adjacent to the control tower. The FAA is actively recruiting for positions such as aviation safety inspector and air tra c controller, as well as many others.

For those concerned about the job being too stressful, Wichmann added, “I don’t think air tra c is a stressful job. I think it’s like putting together puzzle pieces, and I like to be a problem-solver. I would say raising my three children is a lot more stressful than air tra c.

“I love Oshkosh because everybody that is here wants to be here, volunteers to be here, begs to be here, and it’s like the ‘Super Bowl’ of air tra c.”

Rock your wings!

The perfect back-up radios.

IC-A25N - Powerful NAV/COM air band portable with built-in GPS, Bluetooth® and VOR navigation. Available in the COM only version: IC-A25C.

IC-A16 - Ground to air radio with 1500 mW loud audio, built-in Bluetooth® in the IC-A16B version. The ideal flight companion for student pilots and ground crew alike.

Visit the Icom Booth #2027 July 22 – July 28, 2024

EXPERTS IN WHEEL & BRAKE TECHNOLOGY

Aircraft manufacturers have come to rely on products from Aircraft Wheel & Brake by Kaman.

Cleveland Wheels & Brakes product lines have over 80 years of safe takeoffs and landings to our credit, making us one of the world’s most experienced, recognizable, and respected wheel and brake manufacturers.

OSHKOSH MOMENTS

Remembering Dick Rutan

Stop by booth #3087 and register to win a brake refurbish kit when you connect with us on LinkedIn!

BY BARBARA A. SCHMITZ AIRVENTURE TODAY STAFF

WARRIOR. ADVENTURER. PATRIOT.

Monday thru Friday

One kit will be given away daily. Kit includes brake discs, linings and rivets for one single-engine aircraft.

To be eligible entrant must connect with Aircraft Wheel and Brake on LinkedIn and send us a direct message including the make/model of their aircraft and a valid contact phone number.

Those words on the memorial stone for Dick Rutan, who died in May, sum up Dick’s life. But his brother Burt and other friends told tales that brought laughter to the crowd gathered Tuesday at the Brown Arch to remember and pay respect to the man famous for circumnavigating the world without stopping or refueling in the Voyager, an experimental airplane designed by Burt, in 1986.

Dick wasn’t just known for flying the Voyager, however. He was a military aviator shot down in Vietnam and a record-breaking test pilot who was awarded the Silver Star, five Distinguished Flying Crosses, 16 Air Medals, and a Purple Heart. He retired from the Air Force in 1978 with the rank of lieutenant colonel. He was also a supporter of EAA for more than 50 years.

Burt said that Dick was a test pilot for his Mojave aerospace company, and joked he wasn’t a very good employee. “I wanted VariEze to fly safely, but safe wasn’t in Dick’s repertoire,” he said. Instead, Dick liked to make changes so he could fly aerobatics or faster.

eat together, go to movies together. It was the best time of my life.”

Burt said Dick died of an incurable lung disease, and one of the last things the two brothers did in Dick’s last hours was salute each other.

“It wasn’t long ago that Dick was saying he thought he could make it to Oshkosh again,” Burt said. But Dick was a fighter to the end. “He fought it until he knew it was going to kill him. He tried to keep healthy, but we watched him grow weaker and weaker every day” as his body slowly shut down.

Toward the end, Dick called the important people in his life to say goodbye. He also gave his family and friends instructions about his memorial. “It’s got to be in a hangar and surrounded by big airplanes,” Dick told them. “And nobody can be more dressed up than a T-shirt.”

In fact, those who did come wearing nicer clothes were given a T-shirt with a missing man formation to change into.

When the pain started to be overwhelming, Dick decided it was time to stop fighting. He removed his oxygen and died shortly after, with his wife, Kris, by his side.

As children, the two brothers fought a lot, Burt said, and weren’t that close. But that’s because of their age difference. They didn’t go to school together, and they didn’t have the same friends.

But two years ago, Burt convinced Dick to leave Mojave and move closer to him in northern Idaho. “For the first time in our lives, we had the same friends. We’d

He will be buried with full honors at Arlington National Cemetery.

Dick Rutan’s memorial stone at the Brown Arch, along with brother Burt Rutan’s hat from Mojave Air & Space Port. PHOTOGRAPHY BY BARBARA A. SCHMITZ

COME AND EXPERIENCE HONDA’S WORLD OF MOBILITY

WARBIRDS

Announcing the Establishment and Grand Opening of The Warbird Academy

CHRIS ROUNDS, PRESIDENT of The Warbird Academy, announced today at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh the establishment of a new aviation flight training organization in Douglas, Georgia, specifically designed to train pilots to fly World War II and post-WWII military training aircraft.

This new organization is named The Warbird Academy.

The Warbird Academy will o er flight instruction, ground instruction, and orientation flights in these five military training aircraft:

• Stearman PT-17

• North American AT-6D Texan

• Beechcraft T-34A Mentor

• North American T-28B Trojan

• Lockheed T-33 Shooting Star

Ron Kaplan, director of communications for the academy, stated, “The Warbird Academy was created

for two distinct purposes: first, to help keep our rich aviation heritage alive by o ering pilots flight training in a variety of WWII and Post-WWII military training aircraft, and secondly, to provide an opportunity for individuals to experience the joys of flying in military training aircraft ranging from an open-cockpit biplane to a 600-mph jet.”

The Warbird Academy is located at Douglas Municipal Airport (KDQH). The airport served as the home of the 63rd Army Air Forces Flying Training Detachment during WWII. There is a museum on the airport, and a portion of the airfield is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The nontowered airport has a 6,000-by-100-foot runway (04/22) and is on the Jacksonville sectional chart.

Chris Rounds has over 17,000 flight hours in a wide variety of aircraft and holds the following FAA type ratings: Boeing 737, T-33, T-28, and P-51 Mustang.

Salute to Veterans Parade

Join us today, Friday, July 26, at 1:45 p.m. as our veterans in attendance assemble with their respective branches of service and march from Warbird Alley to Boeing Plaza.

Sponsored by

He has over 3,000 hours as a flight instructor in both single- and multi-engine aircraft and currently serves as both a warbird flight instructor and warbird mechanic.

The grand opening of The Warbird Academy will be November 9-10, 2024, during the Douglas Veterans Day Fly-In at the Douglas Municipal Airport.

For more information, visit TheWarbirdAcademy. com or call 931-224-7513.

JOIN OUR TEAM AS A

OSHKOSH MOMENTS

Tribute to a Hero

Hundreds gather to celebrate the life of Bud Anderson

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY BARBARA A. SCHMITZ AIRVENTURE TODAY STAFF

HUNDREDS GATHERED AROUND

citizensoldier

The Wisconsin Army National Guard is more than just a job. As a CitizenSoldier you’ll respond when disaster strikes at home. You’ll also answer the call when your country needs you around the world. This is our unique dual mission–serving both community and country. Make it your mission today.

Old Crow Tuesday to learn about the man who once flew the P-51 and pay tribute to one of America’s greatest heroes, even though Brig. Gen. Bud Anderson never considered himself a hero.

Bud died in his sleep this past May. He was 102 years old.

He was known particularly well by EAA’s Warbirds family, as year after year he presented at the annual Warbirds in Review, talking not just about the P-51, but also about his life as a triple ace in World War II. In fact, during the war he was the highest-scoring flying ace in his P-51 squadron.

“I hold Bud up as an example of what a true patriot means to the generations that follow.”

Scan code to get started.

Connie Bowlin, who flew with Bud many times and founded Warbirds in Review, said the program was a tribute to a friend and WWII hero who always had time for others, especially children. “I’m energized by all of you as we celebrate this life well-lived,” she said.

In a short video presented during the memorial, Bud told the tale of how his P-51 got its Old Crow name. “I tell my nondrinking friends that it’s because a crow is one of the most intelligent birds that flies in the sky,” he said, before admitting that it’s named after the straight bourbon whiskey brand.

Today, there are two flying Mustangs named Old Crow.

Friend Jack Roush of Roush Aviation said Warbirds in Review will never be the same without Bud here.

“I hold Bud up as an example of what a true patriot means to the generations that follow,” Jack said. “Bud demonstrated his unselfish nature … through the repeated recommendation of other aces, overshadowing his own accomplishments. He set a high standard not only for aviators, but also to the patriots and

— Jack Roush

citizenry that he helped to preserve and defend during the war.”

Jim Hagedorn, who bought Old Crow from Jack, recalled one of the most di cult things he ever had to tell Bud. That is, he couldn’t fly Old Crow anymore.

“He was getting up in age and starting to forget things … and insurance wasn’t cheap,” Jim said. Instead, Bud flew with instructors in two-seat airplanes after that.

Ray Fowler said it is special to fly any Mustang. “But to fly Old Crow with all of its history and to know Bud Anderson …” It’s clear that would be extra special.

The memorial ended with military honors, including a ceremonial folding and flag presentation. Connie will present the flag to Bud’s family in California next week.

In addition, Bud will be further honored with a missing man tribute during Friday’s warbirds show.

From left, Connie Bowlin, Jack Roush, Jim Hagedorn, Bob Bull, and Ray Fowler spoke at Bud Anderson’s memorial. They were surrounded by Mustangs Old Crow and Gentleman Jim

Meet Sabré Cook

American professional race car driver and mechanical engineer.

First 50 people receive an exclusive gift!

Tomorrow, July 27, the PenFed booth #270 from 1:00–1:45pm.

See you there! at

Sabré Cook is currently the first and only female competing in the Porsche Carrera Cup Series North America, breaking into the top 10 in just her second race event of her rookie season.

NOTICE TO AIRVENTURE ATTENDEES: AMENDED CROWD LINE

Snowbirds crowd line — Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, July 26-28

ATTENDEES, VOLUNTEERS, AND pilots should be aware that the Snowbirds performances require a larger aerobatic box, necessitating a slight move of the crowd line to the west during the afternoon air shows on those days. Only essential, authorized air show personnel are permitted inside the box during the Snowbirds performance.

The Snowbirds crowd line will run the entire length of the flightline from Ultralights through Warbirds, in line with the existing speaker poles, about 120 feet west of the regular crowd burn line. This line will be clearly marked.

For Air Show Spectators

Visitors will have access to the regular crowd line area until 1:15 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and until noon on Sunday. At those times, visitors

must move back to behind the Snowbirds crowd line. AirVenture guests will not be allowed to leave chairs, blankets, coolers, or other items past the Snowbirds crowd line at any time on those days. Friday through Sunday, Wittman Road will be closed to all vehicular traffic, providing additional space for air show viewing.

For Pilots and Crew of Aircraft Parked on the Flightline

After 1:15 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and noon on Sunday, pilots or crew of aircraft parked between the two crowd lines will be allowed in the area for a short time with a security escort to perform urgent, essential tasks. Everyone will need to be out of this area by 4:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 2:45 p.m. on Sunday.

Full access will be restored after the completion of the Snowbirds performance on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Look for extensive signage on the grounds further explaining the areas and times covered by these necessary rules and guidelines.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Explore our Blue Planet with Total Assurance

As part of the Williams Blue Planet Initiative, you can already fly your FJ33 and FJ44 engines using Sustainable Aviation Fuel. Now, TAP BlueTM members can seamlessly implement carbon offsets with a simple, easy option added to their existing program - the same program that covers all engine maintenance for a fixed cost per flight hour - scheduled and unscheduled, all service bulletins, plus whatever nature throws at you. In fact, TAP Blue is the only engine maintenance program that covers foreign object damage (FOD) including bird strikes and lightning strikes. That is Williams’ Total Assurance Program for our Blue Planet. That is TAP BlueTM .

To sign up now, e-mail us at WIproductsupport@williams-int.com, or call 1-800-859-3544 (continental US) / 1-248-960-2929 (other)

Pelton: EAA Growing Membership, Youth Programs

EAA REMAINS FINANCIALLY strong, membership numbers now exceed 300,000, and youths have many more opportunities to become involved in aviation through a myriad of new programs, said EAA CEO and Chairman of the Board Jack J. Pelton during the 2024 Annual Meeting on Wednesday.

Jack said the membership growth is particularly encouraging. “No. 1, there’s a big increase in the number of youth members, which will help ensure that we can grow the future of aviation,” he said. But there is also an increase in lifetime memberships, and it’s not because people think it’s a better financial deal. “It’s because they believe in what we are doing. And that’s very important to all of us.”

The 2023 convention was a record year, and Jack says he’s hoping this year’s event will be just as successful. May, June, and the beginning of July were very wet and created a lot of challenges to the grounds crew.

“Two weeks ago we were looking at 25 percent of the grounds being saturated, so we could not occupy those areas,” he said. But the weather took a turn and the team jumped in and was able to get the grounds ready.

Youth programs have been expanded and are helping to grow youth involvement. EAA’s Youth Education Center cost $7 million but was paid for totally by donations. “We had 6,000 kids come through the Youth Education Center,” Jack said. “We offered over 19 different options of

in-person educational programs for kids in grades K-12. That included over 482 Title 1 students, students who may never have had the opportunity to see what aviation is all about.”

EAA also had 579 Scouts and 200 young women take part in programs, he added, as well as its Air Academy, AeroEducate, and other programs. KidVenture alone reached over 22,000 children.

In addition, EAA volunteers have now flown nearly 2.4 million Young Eagles, including giving over 61,000 flights last year, in part thanks to more than 1,200 new pilots in the program. EAA has also awarded more than 500 students Ray Aviation Scholarships for flying lessons, who have an 85 percent success rate.

“We’re very proud of these numbers and we will … continue to expand our o erings and the number of kids that we can serve,” Jack said.

But EAA’s programing for adults also saw increases. “Our webinar series, which gets information and knowledge out to our members, had a very strong attendance and over 27,000 people took advantage of those programs in the last year,” Jack said. “The Flight Proficiency Center was also o to a very solid first year … with 30-plus program o erings o ered outside of AirVenture.”

In addition, the museum had record attendance with 90,000 visitors.

Jack J. Pelton talks about the year’s highlights at the EAA Annual Meeting.

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY BARBARA A. SCHMITZ

AIRVENTURE TODAY STAFF

EMERGENCY WEATHER SAFETY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CRAIG VANDER KOLK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAM SASIN

German Pilot Diverts to AirVenture

Markus Schloter’s first flight to the U.S. lands him at AV24

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY BARBARA A. SCHMITZ AIRVENTURE TODAY STAFF

Thank goodness for bad weather in Canada. Without it, Markus Schloter, of Rheinberg, Germany, might not have changed his plans and diverted to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh.

“I had planned to fly to the United States because it has always been a dream of mine to cross the North Atlantic,” he said. “I had planned four weeks for the trip, plus two weeks as a weather reserve.”

Markus said he had heard of AirVenture, but it took an invitation from a group of pilots from EAA Chapter 609 in Chehalis, Washington, to convince him to divert from his planned route.

“They said, ‘We’re in a group of five planes, but if you join us to Oshkosh, we’ll just be a group of six,’” Markus said. He had read the NOTAM and acknowledged he didn’t quite understand it, as this was his first time flying in the U.S., so they explained it and he was in.

“They even printed out the important pages,” Markus said. “Their goal was to park in the South 40. My goal was to park

There’s a pure mass of things to watch here. Plus you’re accepted just like you’re family.” — Markus Schloter

with them. They appreciated me as if I was a member of their family.”

As he rocked his wings over Fisk, an air tra c controller asked, “The red and white low-wing,” what type of airplane was he in? It’s a 1969 Robin DR340, a French airplane made of wood that weighs 1,200 pounds.

Markus said the highlights of his trip included the “indescribable hospitality” of the people he met. He left Germany on June 25 and flew to Scotland, Iceland, Greenland, and Canada before entering the U.S. in Bangor, Maine, and crossing the country.

He arrived at Oshkosh on July 19 after logging 9,340 nautical miles in 86 hours. He planned to depart Thursday and head toward Thunder Bay as he made his way back to Europe, hoping to arrive in Germany in early August.

Markus said he was impressed with AirVenture. “There’s a pure mass of things to watch here,” he said. “Plus you’re accepted just like you’re family.”

He also said there are some golden rules for pilots planning trips like this. First, prepare for everything, whether that means reading or taking classes.

“And as soon as the birds start walking, you should stop flying,” Markus said. “Also, don’t book accommodations in advance. It will just cause ‘get-there-itis.’”

Markus Schloter, of Rheinberg, Germany, landed at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh on Friday in his French-made Robin DR340.

THE BOB HOOVER Academy (BHA), a Salinas, Californiabased nonprofit founded by Sean D. Tucker and dedicated to empowering at-risk kids through aviation education, is taking its curriculum and career opportunities to new heights thanks to a powerful, dynamic donation led by The Thomas and Stacey Siebel Foundation.

Tom Siebel, Craig McCaw, and David Leuschen have provided funds for operational support and Carbon Cub airplane kits — one each year over the next three years — to be built by students at the academy. This donation — combined with training, the acclaimed AOPA aviation curriculum, guaranteed job interviews for graduates, and career opportunities from industry partners Cirrus, CubCrafters, and Game Composites — open previously unimagined doors for underserved youths.

Building Aircraft to Reinvest in Kids, Start Careers

The CubCrafters EX-2 aircraft kits will be integrated into the academy’s curriculum, serving as hands-on educational tools to enhance the learning experience and provide practical skills in aviation manufacturing and assembly. Such skills are in high demand, o ering high-paid careers upon graduation. The proceeds from the sale of the completed EX-2s will be reinvested in the academy to support the cost of a full-time professional school administrator and other educational programs.

AOPA Curriculum Provides Foundation for Classroom Learning

Beginning this summer, the academy integrated the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) high school aviation curriculum as the backbone of its inclassroom learning. This STEM curriculum, implemented in more than 500 schools and reaching 23,000 students nationwide during the 2022-2023 school year alone, equips students with the knowledge and skills needed for the aviation industry.

Cirrus, CubCrafters, and Game Composites Step Up to Support

Generous industry partners have stepped up to support this unique partnership. Cirrus, with primary locations in Duluth, Minnesota, and Knoxville, Tennessee, has committed to providing post-high school engagement opportunities to BHA graduates, with potential access to real-world experience in the aviation industry and a direct pathway to a career immediately after graduation.

CubCrafters is o ering discounted aircraft kits, complete with comprehensive technical support throughout the build process. This support includes factory training in specialty areas such as fabric work. Additionally, CubCrafters will o er guaranteed job interviews for program graduates in various fields, including machining, composites, welding, assembly, fabric work, paint, or services, depending on their areas of interest.

Game Composites, located in Bentonville, Arkansas, is pleased to o er two-week internships with guaranteed job interviews to BHA students. Participants can choose from positions in composite manufacturing, bodywork and paint, or engineering. For those working toward airframe and powerplant (A&P) certification, Game Composites will provide hands-on experience, contributing toward the necessary work hours for qualification.

For more information about the Bob Hoover Academy and its programs, visit BobHooverAcademy.org.

A salute to those who serve

Boeing is proud to honor service members for everything they do to keep those at home safe.

Stop by the Boeing Pavilion (Booth #747).

Replica Fighters Association

BY ROBBIE CULVER AIRVENTURE TODAY STAFF

IN MY DREAMS, I fly a World War I Sopwith Camel. I’m wearing a leather flying coat emblazoned with my squadron’s emblem, a leather helmet, and goggles, with a white scarf flowing in the airstream. The sun streams in layered bands and reflects o my fabric wings. I twist and soar in the morning sky, searching earnestly for the enemy in

The association welcomes anyone who is interested in aviation, specifically replica warbirds, bombers, or grasshoppers.

hopes of another victory. I hear the The Royal Guardsmen song Snoopy vs. the Red Baron in my head as I turn and bank between the clouds. O my wing, you, my friends, fly formation — each in your own vision of history. One of you points down, and I see a gaggle of triplanes beneath us. I snap a quick salute and bank away sharply to dive toward them ….

The Replica Fighters Association (RFA) began around 1972 to support people who are building replica military aircraft, a unique niche in the world of homebuilts. EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is when the association has its annual convention and fly-in. Corey Butcher, one of the directors of the RFA, said, “Many of the military aircraft on display at

AirVenture Oshkosh are so expensive nobody can touch them. But there is a desire to maintain the history of what these aircraft are all about.”

Forums and seminars are held on various subjects related to replica aircraft. The social aspect includes an air-conditioned clubhouse as well as an area in

Camp Scholler where members camp together. Members are required to be an EAA member and are encouraged to help out during AirVenture. The association welcomes anyone who is interested in aviation, specifically replica warbirds, bombers, or grasshoppers. Association Director Joe Labert said, “We all support each other.”

The association’s full-color magazine, an invaluable member benefit, provides project reports, photos, and information for the builder or prospective builder. The association is not focused on just one specific type or manufacturer — any type of replica is included. As an example, there is a group of builders interested in building a replica A-10 Warthog. Certainly, World War I and World War II replicas are the most prevalent, but the association exists to support everyone.

A renewed focus is on attracting youths. According to Director Julian Morrison, “We need to lure in the younger generation. The way we do that is not just WWI or WWII. We need to start at the Korean War at least, with

A recent magazine article about using SOLIDWORKS software is an example of members helping members.

Labert added, “We have a lot of talented people in different areas that can help other builders. If a builder has a problem, there are resources available to assist them. One of the things that is a huge plus is that not all members have the same capabilities as others.”

Members can contact those with the knowledge, equipment, tools, and experience to produce a part at a reasonable cost.

Certainly, World War I and World War II replicas are the most prevalent, but the association exists to support everyone. jets.” The association continues trying to grow interest in the genre, to learn what builders dreams are and what would they like to see.

Troves of technical information has been published by the association. An example is dynamic scaling. If a builder wants to scale down an aircraft, it is not as simple as just reducing the known dimensions. There are resources available to assist a prospective builder who wants to scale down an existing type. Reference materials are available through membership in the RFA.

For those who are interested, the association has an air-conditioned clubhouse located on Knapp Street just north of the Forums area. It’s on the west side of the road past the EAA Blue Barn. Look for a bright blue biplane with a checkered aft fuselage. You do not have to be a member to attend their forum presentations or hang out in the air conditioning.

Learn more at ReplicaFighters.com.

FAST-TRACK PILOT TRAINING

Log hours with a high-fidelity FRASCA Reconfigurable Training Device (RTD). The RTD is a feature rich Advanced Aviation Training Device (AATD) that combines FRASCA quality with real-world a ordability. Dollar for dollar, the RTD is the most immersive flight training experience available. FRASCA. Where simulation and reality meet.

S N N N N

(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

AROUND THE GROUNDS

Dream It and Let Your Spirit Soar

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY JIM ROBERTS

ON OPENING DAY of EAA AirVenture

Oshkosh 2024, members of the Vintage Aircraft Association (VAA) gathered to christen the new Charles W. Harris Youth Aviation Center. The facility houses workstations, tools, and exhibits, all designed to open the world of aviation to the next generation. Named for the late Charles “Charlie” W. Harris, the center honors his contributions to the vintage aircraft world, including stints as VAA director and heading up the popular Vintage in Review program held daily at the VAA Red Barn.

Resembling an aircraft hangar, the 2,400-square-foot insulated and airconditioned building can house aircraft the size of a Piper Cub or biplane. In the spacious new facility sited just south of the VAA Red Barn, youngsters can gather and learn without outdoor distractions.

VAA President Susan Dusenbury said there are ample hands-on learning opportunities. “Simple things, like the basic components of an engine and how to use things like screwdrivers and drills. And we teach them how to make an electrical

circuit with battery power, and a light will come on.” There’s even a table where kids can craft a cellphone holder from sheet metal, all under the guidance of VAA volunteers.

In the spacious new facility sited just south of the VAA Red Barn, youngsters can gather and learn without outdoor distractions.

Besides teaching basic building skills, Susan emphasized a more profound goal: “We want these kids to have a feeling of community and values like personal integrity, friendship, patriotism, communication skills, self-esteem, and a sense of belonging.” When asked how you go about this, she replied, “To build character, you have to have people in there with character.” To that end, VAA has enlisted A.C. Hutson and his wife, Sue, to lead the program. Recently retired from Delta Air Lines, A.C. was instrumental in the success of the late Ron Alexander’s Youth

Aviation Program at Peach State Aerodrome.

The VAA youth education program has adopted the slogan, “Dream it and let your spirit soar,” a sentiment reflected in the eager young faces thronging the center on opening day. The operation is funded through donations and VAA resources. During AirVenture, donors can visit the VAA Red Barn to purchase an engraved brick, which will be placed outside the new building’s hangar door. You can also donate via EAAVintage.org, or send a check to: VAA, P.O. Box 3086, Oshkosh, WI 54903. On the memo line of the check, write, “For Youth Building.” All donations are tax-deductible.

Mary Guillebeau learns basic woodworking skills.

VAA President Susan Dusenbury and helpers cut the ribbon at the Charles W. Harris Youth Aviation Center.

AFSC SHOWCASES DEPOT-LEVEL MAINTENANCE AND LOGISTICS CAPABILITIES AT AIRVENTURE 2024

BY AIR FORCE MATERIEL COMMAND

AS THE LARGEST of AFMC’s six centers, the Air Force Sustainment Center, headquartered at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, has broad reach across the Air Force.

AFSC is commanded by an Air Force three-star general and provides installation support to more than 140 associate units and more than 75,000 airmen. The mission of AFSC is to provide sustainment and logistics readiness to deliver combat power to America by providing world-class depot maintenance, supply chain management, and installation support.

Representatives from AFSC’s Software, Small Business, and Logistics directorates will be on hand at AirVenture, as well as engineering

experts from Ogden and Warner Robins Air Logistics Complexes.

Items featured by AFSC at this year’s AirVenture include virtual reality displays, robotics, C-130 structures display, 3D scanning equipment, holographic fans, and more.

Aside from AFSC’s technical and engineering capabilities on display, EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024 will also feature professionals from AFSC’s Small Business directorate. According

Learn more about MOSAIC’s proposed rulemaking and EAA’s efforts to advocate for changes to make flying and aircraft ownership more attainable and affordable for you!

FRIDAY, JULY 26

ASK THE EXPERT

8 a.m.–12 p.m. | EAA Member Center

STOP DREAMING AND START FLYING

11:30 a.m.–12:45 p.m. | EAA Learn to Fly Center

SATURDAY, JULY 27

ASK THE EXPERT

8 a.m.–12 p.m. | EAA Member Center

SATURDAY, JULY 27(continued)

LEARNING TO FLY RECREATIONALLY: SPORT PILOT/

LIGHT-SPORT AIRCRAFT 2.0

8:30–9:45 a.m. | WomenVenture Center

MOSAIC AND WHAT IT MEANS TO FLIGHT SCHOOLS AND INDEPENDENT FLIGHT INSTRUCTORS

11:30 a.m.–12:45 p.m. | EAA Learn to Fly Center

MOSAIC FOR PRIVATE AND SPORT PILOTS

11:30 a.m.–12:45 p.m. | Forum Stage 11: DeltaHawk Engines

to Director Ronnie Hobbs, his directorate is responsible for connecting the center to groundbreaking businesses and products to ensure the Air Force remains on the cutting edge of innovation.

“The AFSC Small Business Office’s mission is to create and deliver strategies that bring innovative, agile, and effective Small Business solutions to support the Air Force’s war-winning capabilities while educating private industry on how to do business with the force,” Hobbs explained.

Hobbs also expressed his hopes on what his team will accomplish during its involvement with AirVenture 2024.

“We believe the Oshkosh air show is a great opportunity to showcase the work being done by our nation’s small businesses,” he said. “Further, we aim to connect with industry, academia, and other government offices to help provide meaningful engagement with the Air Force Sustainment Center innovation ecosystem.”

AFSC employs more than 40,000 military and civilian airmen at its three air logistics complexes in Oklahoma City; Ogden, Utah; and Warner Robins, Georgia. The 72nd Air Base Wing, Tinker AFB, Oklahoma; the 75th Air Base Wing, Hill AFB, Utah; and the 78th Air Base Wing, Robins AFB, Georgia, provide installation support to respective base populations. And the 448th Supply Chain Management Wing at Tinker AFB, and the 635th Supply Chain Operations Wing at Scott AFB, Illinois, are the first responders for Air Force logistics customer support.

The men and women of AFSC provide critical sustainment for some of the U.S. armed forces’ most sophisticated weapons systems, including the F-35 Lightning, KC-46 Pegasus, A-10 Thunderbolt, B-1 Lancer, B-52 Stratofortress, C-5 Galaxy, C-17

Globemaster III, C-130 Hercules, E-3 Sentry, E-6 Mercury, F-15 Eagle, F-16 Falcon, F-22 Raptor, KC-135 Stratotanker, T-38 Talon, the

Minuteman intercontinental ballistic missile, as well as a wide portfolio of engines and component parts.

“Sustainment and logistics are very important because at the end of the day, we forge the nation’s readiness, and we accelerate innovation,” AFSC Commander Lt. Gen. Stacey T. Hawkins said. “We do it for America’s warfighters, not just in the Air Force, but across the joint force, as well as supporting our partners and allies.”

With capabilities ranging from additive manufacturing and software engineering to depot-level aircraft overhauls, the cornerstone philosophy that guides the men and women of AFSC is Art of the Possible (AoP), a constraints-based management system designed to create a mission culture focused on keen process execution.

“AoP is the mission culture imperative of AFSC. It is the ‘playbook’ that allows us to operate as one team across each of our 27 operating locations. Our customers, suppliers, and industry partners benefit when we speak with

a consistent voice and use one set of operating principles,” Hawkins said.

The AFSC commander’s four priorities are: “Produce to Promise,” “People Make It Happen,” “Process Is How We Do It,” and “Prepare for Competition and Warfighting,” each affirming the center’s commitment to its customers, personnel, process adherence, and readiness.

TYPE CLUB COALITION MEETS AT AIRVENTURE 2024

BY ROBBIE CULVER AIRVENTURE TODAY STAFF

MANY AIRCRAFT TYPES such as an Aeronca Champ, a Bonanza, or a Lancair have a type club or member organization, which is often the best resource for information and documentation related to the aircraft type. Additionally, socialization among owners adds to the experience — whether the aircraft that owns you is vintage or brand new, having like-minded pilots is always helpful.

On Tuesday, July 23, EAA’s Type Club Coalition (TCC) held its annual meeting at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. Over the past several years, I’ve written in these pages about the TCC, its mission, its successes, and why type clubs are important. In spring 2024, longtime TCC Chairman Coyle Schwab decided to retire from his current role e ective in late July, and he asked me if I would consider taking over the position. Like many of us in aviation, it’s hard for me to say no when asked. So, as of AirVenture 2024, I am the new chairman of the TCC.

The TCC is an organization of owners and builders groups brought together for the common purpose of increasing the level of safety in the general aviation community. Whether you fly a type-certificated aircraft, a warbird, a

homebuilt, or anything in between, all are welcome in the TCC.

Many type clubs have worked hard to create e ective training programs and best operating practices for their members. The TCC is a place where these organizations, as well as individual owners, can come together to further develop these resources. If the community can work together to eliminate the common mistakes of aircraft operation, typespecific or otherwise, the overall safety of GA will increase substantially.

The TCC meets annually in the EAA Founders’ Wing during AirVenture to review recent challenges, exchange ideas, and discuss the current regulatory environment. This year, representatives from the FAA and NTSB also attended.

The TCC is an organization of owners and builders groups brought together for the common purpose of increasing the level of safety in the general aviation community.

Make Daydreams a Reality

$100 gets you the chance to win a 2024 Ford Mustang and supports Young Eagles

BY EMME HORNUNG AIRVENTURE TODAY STAFF

IF YOU’VE MADE your way to the Four Corners this week, you’ve probably spotted that beautiful blue Mustang parked outside of the Learn to Fly Center, prompting daydreams of driving down country roads, wind blowing in your hair.

It doesn’t have to be just a daydream, you know! For $100 you can purchase one of only 1,500 ra e tickets for a chance to win the 2024 Mustang GT Premium, donated by Kocourek Automotive in Wausau, Wisconsin. The best part? All proceeds will help make the daydreams of children become a reality by supporting EAA’s Young Eagles program, which provides free introductory flights in a general aviation aircraft to youths ages 8-17.

Volunteer Christina LaVicka has been supporting the Mustang ra e since 2017, and as a teacher, she is passionate about sharing the wonders of aviation with her

students and educating them on the opportunities available, making the ra e the perfect place to volunteer while here at AirVenture. “I’m fortunate to have a job in education where I am teaching students of all grades and abilities. Anytime I’m able to have a conversation with just about anyone, I’m usually able to steer it in the direction of aviation for a few minutes,” she said. “There really is nothing like seeing a kid’s face light up when they find out they can learn to fly for free before they are 18.”

Also supporting the ra e is volunteer Chairman Jon Maxwell, who has been at it for 18 years now, and he reminds us exactly why programs like Young Eagles are vital to the future of aviation. “The Young Eagles program is filling that gap of the vast shortages in the aviation industry,” he said. “It used to be you just take a flight, and that was it. Now, with the program, there is so much

education. The chapters are doing a ton of things, along with all the scholarships. … That’s what it’s all about.”

Quit daydreaming and stop by one of three Young Eagles ra e booths on the AirVenture grounds by Sunday at noon to purchase your ticket, and help make the daydreams of future aviators become a reality.

An Experiment in Optimal Learning

Pilot Proficiency Center (PPC)

Join us in improving the ability of flight instructors and aviation educators to deliver training more effectively. Engage in hands-on activities, flight simulation and connect with passionate pilots and instructors in a dynamic atmosphere that fosters discussion and a flow of ideas.

Today’s Workshops

Friday, July 26 @ 0800 - 1200

Where’d Those Transferable Skills Go?

Adriana Barragan

Many of the skills required to master different aircraft are not only readily transferable but invaluable to your everyday flying. Explore how to best use these transferable skills to make us better pilots and instructors

Don’t Let Your Enthusiasm Exceed Your Energy

Rob Dumovic

In our workshop we’ll be using energy management concepts in all phases of flight to improve decision making with a focus on emergencies in all phases of flight.

Open Simulator Sessions

Friday, July 26 @ 1300 - 1700

Saturday, July 27 @ 0800 - 1200 & 1300 - 1700

Beginning Friday afternoon the 26th and extending through all day Saturday the flight simulation devices and crosswind trainer are available for 60-minute proficiency orientation session. No preregistration is required.

Planes of Fame Air Museum to Become the New Home of the National Aviation Heritage Invitational (NAHI)

STEVE HINTON, PRESIDENT of the Planes of Fame Air Museum, is proud to announce that the annual Central Coast AirFest, at the Santa Maria Airport, will become the new home for the National Aviation Heritage Invitational (NAHI) vintage aircraft competition. “NAHI will bring some of the finest restored vintage aircraft in the country to our ramp and provide our guests and sponsors a new and exciting element to our air show.”

NAHI was founded in 1998 at the Reno Air Races by four well-known aviation-oriented organizations: Rolls-Royce, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, the National Aviation Hall of Fame, and the Reno Air Racing Association. NAHI was created to honor our rich aviation heritage by encouraging the restoration and preservation of

vintage aircraft to airworthy condition. In addition, it uses those aircraft and their owners, pilots, and aviation legends to inspire students to pursue careers within the aviation and aerospace industries.

Ken Perich, executive director of NAHI, stated, “We accomplish these goals by hosting a friendly annual vintage aircraft competition, where each aircraft is judged against restoration standards in line with those of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. We bring together rare vintage aircraft, which have been meticulously restored, to compete for the coveted Neil A. Armstrong Aviation Heritage Trophy.”

Ron Kaplan, deputy director of NAHI, added, “Planes of Fame Air Museum is the ideal organization to host the National Aviation Heritage Invitational’s annual

THE PERSONAL JET

competition. The goals and mission statements of both organizations align perfectly.”

Taigh Ramey, NAHI’s chief judge noted, “The NAHI competition is open to aircraft 45 years or older, which have been preserved or restored to airworthy condition. We have five judging categories … which compete for the Orville and Wilbur Wright Trophy, the Paul E. Garber Trophy, the Henry “Hap” Arnold Trophy, the Herb Kelleher Trophy, and the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Trophy. In addition, there is the ever-popular People’s Choice Award Trophy.”

For 2024, the Central Coast AirFest (held September 21 and 22) will have some former NAHI winners and participants on the ramp along with representatives from NAHI to set the

stage for the full vintage aircraft competitions beginning in the fall of 2025.

“These vintage aircraft compete for the coveted Neil A. Armstrong Aviation Heritage Trophy, which represents one of the highest honors an aircraft restorer can receive,” said Robert “Hoot” Gibson, astronaut, air racer, Hall of Fame enshrinee, and NAHI ambassador.

For more information on the Planes of Fame Air Museum, its mission, and background, please visit PlanesOfFame.org.

For more information on the National Aviation Heritage Invitational, its mission, aircraft entry requirements, and judging criteria, please visit HeritageTrophy.com.

For more information and to purchase tickets for the Central Coast AirFest, please visit CentralCoastAirFest.com.

YOUTH AVIATION PROGRAMS WORKING TOGETHER

BY PAUL MALOY, EAA DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION

WAY BACK IN 1624, the English poet John Donne famously wrote, “No man is an island.” And the ancient and equally well-known African proverb states, “It takes a village to raise a child.” With such being the case, it should come as no surprise that EAA is actively engaging multiple organizations and corporations to develop and expand its youth aviation programs both formally and informally, in a concerted e ort to alleviate the growing critical talent needs gap looming in front of the aviation and aerospace industries.

“We may compete on everything else, but when it comes to safety and education, this industry pulls together to cooperate,” said John O’Leary, Airbus Americas vice president of engineering.

Working with many aviation and aerospace organizations, EAA’s expanding education team works diligently to develop relationships and opportunities for youths to engage in fun activities that open new possibilities for learning skills and creating paths into exciting future careers.

As such, the education team weaves together youth learning opportunities, not only with EAA’s Young Eagles flights and other EAA chapter youth programs, but also with many other organizations with excellent youth offerings such as AMA, AOPA, the Aircraft Electronics Association, Estes Rockets, Fold’NFly, Horizon Hobby, FAA’s AVSED program, NASA’s classroom resources, the National Aviation Hall of Fame, PlaneEnglish, SafeLaunch, Siemens’ free student version of SolidEdge CAD, STEM Flights, Tango Flight, and more.

Big and small, corporate and nonprofit, we seek and work with a variety of organizations to find new youth opportunities or develop new opportunities to encourage youths to explore all things aviation and aerospace. Why the intense effort to coordinate and work together? Simply put, the enormous and economydriving aviation and aerospace industries are facing a growing shortage of talent. According to a 2020 Pilot and Technician Outlook report released by Boeing, airlines will need 804,000 new pilots, 914,000 more cabin crew, and 769,000 new maintenance technicians by 2040. And that says nothing

about the equally desperate need for aeronautical engineers and manufacturing technicians throughout the industries.

The problem is that there are not enough youths who are aware of these opportunities and choosing STEMrelated careers. However, the pivot point is not in colleges or tech schools. The real need is pointing students toward the exciting opportunities in STEM fields while they are still in elementary and middle schools. “We o er a wide variety of fun and thought-provoking programming in our Youth Education Center throughout the year designed to give students of all ages a look into aviation and the possibilities for their futures,” said Alyssa Horpedahl, program manager of EAA’s Youth Education Center.

Danielle Schmick, program manager of EAA’s online AeroEducate program added, “Through EAA’s webbased, aviation resource hub, K-12 youth from all over

“We offer a wide variety of fun and thoughtprovoking programming in our Youth Education Center throughout the year designed to give students of all ages a look into aviation and the possibilities for their futures.”

— Alyssa Horpedahl

the world can explore and discover the science, technology, engineering, and other amazing aviation career opportunities.”

The EAA education department wishes to acknowledge and thank key supporters, including Airbus, AMA, AOPA, the FAA, Flite Test, Gulfstream, HondaJet, Horizon Hobby, NASA, Siemens AG, United Airlines, and the U.S. Air Force for their support of EAA educational programming.

AROUND THE GROUNDS

Scholler Shorts

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY KAITLIN PIETTE AIRVENTURE TODAY STAFF

JOHN AND DENISE Wills from Jasper, Alabama, have been attending AirVenture for 15 years, during which John has volunteered by driving a yellow Volkswagen Beetle for camp security. Back at home, he is a volunteer pilot for the Walker County Sheri ’s department, flying a Bell OH-58/206 Jet Ranger helicopter, and personally owning a Schweizer 300 helicopter and a 1954 V-tail Bonanza. John and Denise have met many people who have become friends. This year, they look forward to seeing the jet demo teams, symposiums, attending the Boeing reception dinner, and watching the air shows. Since meeting Paul Poberezny, John remembers him as a shining example for living the aviation life. “His dreams are still being carried out, with all the volunteers and aviation enthusiasts that still attend EAA to this day,” John said.

Nine-year-old Max Fomichev and his dad, Fedor, from Round Rock, Texas, have been volunteering in the gas welding building in the Forums area since 2013. Max helps by setting up the tables while his dad teaches during the week. This all began three days into Fedor’s first year at AirVenture, when he was noticed by instructor Joe Maj because of his steady attendance. When Fedor next went to class, Joe pointed to a table in the building and said, “This is your spot, and you’re going to teach.” Fedor flies a 1987 Marquart Charger, which is parked on the grounds and is a Gold Lindy champion. At home, Max’s love for his two racing bikes is number one, while his love of seeing the Corsair and Citabria becomes his love at AirVenture. One year, he was able to sit in a Corsair, which he was really excited about. This year, Max is excited to experience AirVenture as a whole, and Fedor is ready to see his friends again.

Fedor and Max Fomichev

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.

B-24 Liberator: Designed by Consolidated, the B-24 is the most-produced bomber and American military aircraft in history, and it was used in bombing operations in Europe as well as the Pacific.

TABLE HOSTS Garmin | Williams International

GOLD TABLE HOSTS

P-38 Lightning: The twin-engine P-38, developed by Lockheed, is one of the most distinct fighters of WWII, and it was used most successfully in the Pacific and ChinaBurma-India theaters, where it was flown by America’s top aces, Richard Bong and Thomas McGuire.

BALCONY SKYBOX PRESENTING SPONSOR BIDDER GIFT & BID PADDLES

& MUSEUM ARRIVAL EXPERIENCE MOBILE BIDDING & FUEL THE FUTURE GAUGE

COCKTAIL RECEPTION SCREEN & AUDIO SILVER TABLE HOSTS

Acme Aero | Aerospace Cardiology | Airbus | Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Airmart / Sterling Bourbon | American Airlines | Avfuel | Barnstormer USA | Beau Bradley | Ben Diachun Better Homes And Gardens Special Properties | Blackhawk Aerospace | CAA | Carl Edwards | CJP

Clay Presley | Darren Pleasance | Dave and Sue Passmore | David and Onie Irvine | Ed Noel | Elixir Aircraft

Alan Gaudenti | Arnie Evdokimo | Bob and Susan Wilson | Buddy and Wendy Stallings

Charlie Precourt | Cirrus Aircraft | Cleveland Wheels & Brakes By Kaman | David Kleine

Endre Holen | Global Aerospace, Inc. | Honda Aircraft Company | James Cooling | Jim Tobul Keith Kocourek | Lou Seno | Mars Wrigley | Nicholas Air | Si Robin Foundation Starr Aviation | Stuart Auerbach | The Boeing Company | Wing Aviation

Greg and Suzanne Herrick | Honaker Aviation | Jackson Walker LLP | Jim Phillips | John Vette | Lee Aerospace

Lewis Shaw | Marsh USA, Inc. | Mid-Continent Instruments & Avionics / True Blue Power | Monte Koch | Myrt Rose NBAA | Penfed | Phil Soucy | Pivotal Aero | Richard Beattie | Scott Urschel | Shelly deZevallos | Shepherd Aero Sporty’s | Sultan Salman | Tampa International Airport | Textron Aviation | Tom and Hetty Ball | Twin Otter

Vesely Family Foundation | Waco Aircraft / Junkers Aircraft | William Richards

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIM KOEPNICK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL STEINEKE

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

L-5 Sentinel: Although the Stinson L-5’s development can be traced to the Model 75B, it had no direct civilian counterpart. During the war, it played the crucial role of delivering personnel, intelligence, and supplies to the front lines, as well as evacuating the wounded.

AT-6 Texan: Along with the Stearman, the North American-built AT-6 is often the first aircraft that comes to mind when thinking of WWII U.S. military trainers. With more than 15,000 built, the AT-6 (known as the SNJ by the U.S. Navy and Harvard by the British Commonwealth air forces) served as the advanced trainer for future fighter pilots.

TBM Avenger: Designed by Grumman, the Avenger is a torpedo bomber that is ocially designated the TBF, but many were license built by General Motors and redesignated as TBMs. The Avenger fought in many of the key battles in the Pacific beginning in 1942.

Westland Lysander: Introduced in 1938, the British Lysander was designed as an army cooperation and liaison aircraft, and due to its STOL performance, it excelled in placing and recovering agents behind enemy lines, particularly in occupied France.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JACK FLEETWOOD

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS MILLER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVE WITTY

EAA PHOTO

AROUND THE GROUNDS

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.

Stoddard-Hamilton GlaStar: The GlaStar was designed by Tom Hamilton of Stoddard-Hamilton Aircraft and first flew in 1994. The high-wing two-seater was sold as a kit that could be built with tricycle gear or as a taildragger. EAA’s example is the original prototype.

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

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

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CRYSTAL PEREZ

H H H H PLATINUM LEVEL SUPPORTERS H H H H

H H H H GOLD LEVEL SUPPORTERS H H H H

DeltaHawk Engines H Epic Aircraft H Honda Aircraft Company H Honeywell Aerospace Technologies H Lightspeed Aviation

Lycoming H Mars Wrigley H PenFed H Phillips 66 H Redbird Flight

H H H H SILVER LEVEL SUPPORTERS H H H H

Airbus H Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) H Aircraft Specialties Services H Cirrus Aircraft H Dynon

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University H Icom America H John Deere H Piper Aircraft, Inc. H Pratt & Whitney, an RTX Business H Wipaire

H H H H BRONZE LEVEL SUPPORTERS H H H H

AeroShell H Air Wisconsin Airlines H ASA (Aviation Supplies & Academics) H Aspen Avionics H Blackhawk Aerospace H Bose Aviation

Cleveland Wheels & Brakes by KAMAN H Co-Pilot Goose H Continental Aerospace Technologies H Covington Aircraft H Crewchief Systems

Delta Air Lines H Electroair Acquisition Corporation H GE Aerospace H Green Bay Austin Straubel Int. Airport

Gulf Coast Avionics / Pacific Coast Avionics H Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation H Hangar 22 Coffee H Hartzell Engine Tech H Hartzell Propeller

Horizon Hobby H Jani-King H JP Instruments H Lincoln Electric H magniX H McFarlane Aviation Products H NATCA H Pepsi

Piedmont Airlines H Pilatus Business Aircraft Ltd H Poly Fiber, Inc H PowerLift Hydraulic Doors H Red Box Tools and Foam / Priceless Tugs

Rotax iService and Training Centres H Siemens Digital Industry Software H SiriusXM Aviation H Skyryse H Southwest Airlines H Superflite

Superior Air Parts, Inc. H SureFly Electronic Ignition H Tecnam H Tempest Aero Group H True Blue Power H uAvionix H United Airlines Van’s Aircraft H WACO Aircraft Corporation / Junkers Aircraft H Williams International Wing Aviation

Women in Aviation International (WAI) H Zenith Aircraft

H H H H COPPER LEVEL SUPPORTERS H H H H

American Airlines H B & C Specialty Products Inc. H CAE H DATC H Flight Outfitters H Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company H Oshkosh AeroTech

SOFTIE PARACHUTES by Para-Phernalia, Inc. H Starr Aviation H U.S. Air Force H UND Aerospace H VOLARE HANGARS AT PEGASUS

H H H H PATRON LEVEL SUPPORTERS H H H H

4imprint H Arena Americas H David Clark Company H Endeavor Air H EnerSys® H FliteTest H General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) GES H Honda Power Equipment H JSfirm.com H MATCO ALS H Ninety-Nines, Inc (The) H Pilotsmith H Scheme Designers, Inc H Target Oshkosh

Walkabout Hats H WILCO H Wisconsin Imaging, LLC H X-Plane

Meet Your Favorite Authors!

COME AND MEET the authors of your favorite aviation books! From 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., renowned aviation writers and notable personalities from the world of flight will be available in the EAA Wearhouse, located between the EAA Member Center and the FAA Aviation Safety Center.

9 a.m. — Andrew Ross, The Airline Transition Manual

9-11 a.m. — Jerry Burke, On the Grounds and Up!

10 a.m. — Capt. Tammie Jo Shults, Nerves of Steel

11 a.m. — Katherine Sharp Landdeck, The Women With Silver Wings

Noon — Retired Brig. Gen. John Dragon Teichert, BOOM!: Leadership that Breaks Barriers, Challenges Convention, and Ignites Innovation

1 p.m. — Robert Fulton, Up in the Air: A Pilot’s Journey

2 p.m. — John Lanza, Shot Down Over Italy and From One War to Another

2 p.m. — Michelle “Mace” Curran, Upside Down Dreams and What’s Your Call Sign?

3 p.m. — Mark Phillips, The Last of the Wild Horses

4 p.m. — Kent Smerdon, Flight Lines: Assorted Lies, Recollections and War Stories

5 p.m. — Brian Page, The Wright Engineers: Inventing the Airplane

offer hot coffee, doughnuts, fresh fruit, salads, sandwiches and much more. Red One Market has everything you need to make your stay more enjoyable.

Today’s SCHEDULE

Now Showing

SNOWBIRDS AIR SHOW CROWD LINE WILL BE

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

Noon to 2:45 p.m. on Sunday

ABSOLUTELY NO ACCESS:

SHARE

e SPIRIT of AVIATION

Give the Gi of EAA

Now is your chance to pass the aviation torch by gi ing an EAA membership to someone you feel will help carry on the legacy of EAA founder Paul Poberezny.

To thank you for sharing this membership, you will receive the following recognition items for the corresponding number of Legacy Memberships gi ed.

Featuring a Continental C-85 engine, McCauley propeller, BendixKing communications transceiver and transponder, SureFly electronic ignition with a push-button starter system, an alternator and voltage regulator, and a useful load of 410 pounds.

Drawing will take place August 15, 2024 at the EAA Aviation Center – Oshkosh, WI. For complete rules, visit EAA.org/Sweepstakes

8:30

HEAD IN THE CLOUDS.

9:00AM - 9:45AM

Staying Plugged Into Your Local Airport

Kyle Lewis, AOPA Airports/State Advocacy and Government A airs

10:00AM - 10:45AM

Airport Boards and Commissions –What Every Pilot Should Know

Mike Ginter, AOPA Air Safety Institute and Kyle Lewis, AOPA Airports/State Advocacy and Government A airs

11:00AM - 11:45AM

Upgrades: The Urgent and the Unnecessary

Chelsea Smith @highmaintenance_chels

12:00PM - 12:45PM

ForeFlight for Pinch Hitters

ForeFlight Team Member

1:00PM - 1:45PM

How to Build a Career in Aviation

Matt Johnston, California Aeronautical University and Abbey Hutter, JSfirm.com

39 Lounge Meet and Greets

10:00AM-10:45AM @learnthefinerpoints 12:00PM-12:45PM @highmaintenance_chels 1:00PM-1:45PM John and Martha King

Jolie Lucas, CEO Cascade Counseling, Inc., LCSW AOPA PROGRAM PAVILION FRIDAY | JULY 26

2:00PM - 2:45PM

Learning From Icarus

Bruce Landsberg, Retired Vice Chairman of the NTSB and AOPA Air Safety Institute Advisor

3:00PM - 3:45PM

Airplanes and Social Media: the Good, the Bad, the Ugly!

Joe Costanza @bananasssssssss

4:00PM - 4:45PM

Into the Alligator’s Mouth: Psychology of Personal Flight Minimums

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAMDEN THRASHER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREW ZABACK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TOM CROCKETT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CONNOR MADISON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CRAIG VANDER KOLK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAMDEN THRASHER

Excitement Takes Flight at the FAA Aircraft

Certification Service Booth

EAA AIRVENTURE OSHKOSH is soaring to new heights this year, and one of the star attractions is the Federal Aviation Administration’s Aircraft Certification Service booth, found in the buzzing FAA hangar. From interactive technology to career opportunities, the booth promises a blend of education, innovation, and excitement.

DIRECT HIRES: JOIN THE FAA TEAM!

For those with dreams of taking their aviation career to the next level, the FAA Aircraft Certification Service booth is a must-visit destination. The FAA is o ering direct hire opportunities, making it easier than ever to join the team that’s at the forefront of aviation safety and innovation.

Representatives from the FAA are on hand to discuss various career paths, answer questions about the hiring process, and even conduct on-the-spot interviews for qualified candidates. Whether you’re an experienced aviation professional or a recent graduate, the direct hire program could be your ticket to an exciting and fulfilling aviation career.

INTERACTIVE SIMULATOR: EXPERIENCE THE NEW GCAS

One of the booth’s standout features is the state-of-the-art interactive simulator showcasing the latest in ground collision avoidance system (GCAS) technology. Visitors can step into the pilot’s role and experience firsthand how this groundbreaking system works to enhance safety.

This interactive display will promote new technology sponsored by the FAA Tech Center through an innovative threescreen simulator. This simulator will inform the public of work being done to improve the capabilities of terrain alerting and warning systems through new technology development in GCAS.

The simulator isn’t just for seasoned pilots; it’s designed to be accessible and

From interactive technology to career opportunities, the booth promises a blend of education, innovation, and excitement.

enjoyable for aviation enthusiasts of all ages. Kids and adults alike will find themselves captivated by the cuttingedge technology.

CERTIFICATION QUESTIONS? ASK THE EXPERTS

Navigating the complexities of aircraft certification can be daunting, but the FAA Aircraft Certification Service booth is here to help! FAA experts are available to answer any and all questions related to aircraft certification. Whether you’re an aircraft owner, a manufacturer, or simply an aviation aficionado with burning questions, the FAA team is ready to answer your questions!

AN INVITATION TO EXPLORE

The FAA Aircraft Certification Service booth is more than just an exhibit; it’s an invitation to explore the dynamic world of aviation safety and innovation. With direct hire opportunities, an interactive GCAS simulator, and a wealth of information on aircraft certification, there’s something for everyone.

So, whether you’re an aspiring FAA employee, a tech enthusiast eager to try the GCAS simulator, or simply curious about the intricacies of aircraft certification, make sure to stop by the FAA hangar. The friendly and knowledgeable FAA team is ready to welcome you, answer your questions, and share their passion for aviation safety.

Join us at the FAA Aircraft Certification Service booth and take flight on a journey of discovery and opportunity. This is one AirVenture experience you won’t want to miss!

WHATEVER YOU FLY, EAA INSURANCE SOLUTIONS HAS YOU COVERED.

General Aviation

Non-Owned

Flying Clubs

> General Aviation

> Non-Owned

> Flying Clubs

> Aerobatics

> Warbirds

Aerobatics > Warbirds > Vintage > Powered Parachutes > Weight-Shift Trikes > Flight Instructors > Aircraft Projects Learn more at EAA.org/Insurance

> Vintage > Powered Parachutes > Weight-Shift Trikes > Flight Instructors > Aircraft Projects

Learn more at EAA.org/Insurance

FRIDAY, JULY 26, 2024

ACROSS:

3. If it’s part of an airplane, you might be able to buy it here.

4. Where the biggest display airplanes gather. (Two words)

9. Where you show your wristband. (Two words)

10. Looking for hats, T-shirts, models, or dog tags? Head here. (Two words)

DOWN:

2. One of the biggest “cities” around, for one week a year. (Two words)

4. Where to go to catch a ride. (Two words)

5. EAA’s division for those with “unusual attitudes.”

7.Some of the simplest flying machines around.

8. Learn tips, tricks, and aviation history at any of these.

FUN FOR THE WHOLE

FAMILY

THURSDAY 7/25 ANSWERS

5.AIRSHOW

8. THEATER IN THE WOODS 9.SNOWBIRDS

10.FLY-IN THEATER

1.WOMENVENTURE 2.MEMORIAL WALL

3. THE GATHERING 4.RUNWAY 6. RED ONE MARKET 7.TOWER

How well do you know EAA history?

TRY YOUR HAND at these trivia questions and find out. The answers, along with a new question, will be in tomorrow’s paper.

Q:

As we celebrate 80 years of the Aeronca Champ this year at AirVenture, it’s time to test your Aeronca knowledge. The son of which former U.S. president was one of the company’s directors in its earliest years?

THURSDAY 7/25 ANSWER: An elementary school naming contest

2024 Ford Mustang GT Coupe Premium 2024 YOUNG EAGLES ® RAFFLE

$100 per ticket | Only 1,500 tickets available

Proceeds support the youth education activities of EAA®, including EAA’s Young Eagles program, which has provided more than 2.3 million youths with a free first flight since 1992.

*Tickets can be purchased: (a) at the EAA Aviation Museum™ between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily (excluding holidays or when the Museum is closed) throughout the Raffle Period; (b) throughout Wisconsin at certain events during the Raffle Period; and (c) on the EAA® AirVenture® Oshkosh™ grounds during normal operating hours starting on Monday, July 22, 2024 with all sales concluding on Sunday, July 28, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT. The drawing will be held at 2:30 p.m. CT on Sunday, July 28, 2024 at the AirVenture Welcome Center, EAA® AirVenture® Oshkosh™, 3000 Poberezny Road, Oshkosh, Wisconsin 54902.

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

Fly Away by TheFatRat

A Spaceman Came Travelling by Chris de Burgh

Aviation High by Semi Precious Weapons

Flying Solo by Julie and the Phantoms Cast

Airplane Song by The Royal Guardsmen

Purchase your ticket today at:

» EAA AVIATION MUSEUM GIFT SHOP » VINTAGE HANGAR » FOUR CORNERS » BROWN ARCH

The 2024 Ford Mustang is provided with the support of

Kocourek Ford, Wausau, Wisconsin.

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®

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!

OSHKOSH MOMENTS

@polloricardo

@mykrowsy Rose and my dad are really enjoying the airshow. #naptime