If this is your first time attending EAA’s AirVenture, the world’s largest general aviation airshow, Jack Pelton, Experimental Aircraft Association chairman and CEO, has some tips for you.
AirVenture runs July 24-30 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Organizers are ready for the more than 600,000 expected to attend this year’s event, Pelton says. First-timers may find themselves a little overwhelmed by all there is to see and experience, so here are a few suggestions from Pelton:
1. Get here early in the morning to avoid getting tied up in traffic.
2. Plan your day. What is important to you? Is it attending lectures and forums or hands-on workshops? Get a schedule of events from the app or online and create a daily itinerary.
3. Consider the time of day. AirVenture hosts airshows daily from 2:30-6 p.m. That’s a good time to watch the airshows rather than try to visit with others. Some of the demonstrations can be loud.
4. Dedicate time to visit the various areas of the show grounds. AirVenture has dedicated areas for the warbirds, homebuilt aircraft, vintage aircraft and others.
5. People are friendly and courteous. They’re there because they love aviation. Don’t be afraid to ask someone about their aircraft. “There’s always great stories that go with it, and it really makes the experience fun.”
6. Make a note of where you are parked.
7. Bring good walking shoes, sunglasses, a sunhat and sunscreen.
8. Stay hydrated.
9. Have a fantastic time.
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