“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime.”
― Mark Twain
When you must get there, you absolutely must find a way. There is an unseen force that pulls us all to make the annual trek to this lush green farm valley in Wisconsin. People flock to AirVenture 2023 in many ways. Some drive fancy cars or big SUVs or family minivans, others navigate there in huge motorhomes, many travel with commercial airlines, while many more fly themselves into the valley in shiny private airplanes. Regardless of the means, they all must complete the journey. You simply must! It is an irresistible force that compels all of us aviation-starved addicts forward. It is a law of nature sort of thing, sort of like a magnetic force.
The pull of a prop is a serious affliction. We are cursed with a jet powered demon that we know all too well. He lurks deep inside our hearts. Our friends and family worry about our affliction, this condition is both confusing and disturbing to them, so they ponder a group intervention to rescue us. But how? They simply do not understand our personal utopia.
Utopia, what is it? We think of a famous movie as the origin of Shangri-La, a fictional utopian lamasery located high in the mountains of Tibet. Our Shangri-La is found in an equally opulent green valley, but it is a home within the heartland of America. It is our heaven on earth.
The journey to Shangri-La is different for each of us. For some, it is a very first-time adventure. For others, it is yet another pilgrimage to Shangri-La. You have come for ten, or 20, 30 or even 40 years in a row. There is no escape from our divine haven once we feel the draw pulling us towards it all. We are committed. We simply must go.
DRIVE
Driving to EAA AirVenture is a popular option for many attendees, especially for those who live within a reasonable driving distance or prefer the convenience of having their vehicles with them during the event. People drive to AirVenture from various parts of the United States and even from neighboring countries, such as Canada.
The specific locations people drive from vary, as attendees come from all over. Some may drive from nearby states such as Illinois, Minnesota, Iowa, or Michigan, while others may embark on longer road trips from places like Texas, California, Florida, or the northeastern states. It is common for people to drive for several hours or even days to reach Oshkosh for AirVenture.
Since driving distances can vary significantly, it is advisable for attendees to plan their routes, account for traffic conditions, and make necessary accommodations along the way to ensure a smooth journey to the event.
FLY COMMERCIAL
Every year we see a village of folks from South Africa. The South African EAA chapter hosts a collaborative site with a mass of tents fitted with sleeping cots perfectly aligned for the South African aviation fans. It is just like a safari, only in the wilds of Oshkosh.
This year, about 150 people will make the trip to Oshkosh. The journey is between 24 to 30 hours each way depending upon your routing. Most make it in two or three flights joined together. It is a costly trip and certainly an exhausting one too. This is commitment to the passion of flight.
Internationally, attendees come from Europe, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Africa, and many other places.
Others fly in from all points in the USA. Most arrive at Chicago O’Hare, Milwaukee, or Green Bay. That is the easy part. Then, then need to find a way to get to Oshkosh. That last highway leg can be challenging. If you follow the Oshkosh Facebook forums, you will see strangers reach out to others to ask for a ride or to offer a ride. They state their arrival times and hope for an empty car seat to traverse the last part of the trip. Of course, plans need to be made to get back to these airports after the show ends too.
One year, a group in Southern Ontario in Canada chartered a De Havilland Q400 to fly in and out for a one-day hop to attend the event. The Q400 made easy work of the route and arrived very early in the day and left late for the return flight back over the border. Yes, it was just a long, one-day extravagance, but I am sure that everyone who purchased the charter seat loved the adventure.
FLY PRIVATE
EAA AirVenture attracts a diverse range of private airplanes, highlighting a wide variety of aircraft types and models. Here are some common types of private airplanes that frequently arrive at EAA AirVenture:
- Homebuilt Aircraft: EAA AirVenture is known for its strong connection to the homebuilt aircraft community. Many pilots and builders fly their own experimental or kit-built airplanes to the event. This includes a wide range of designs, such as Van’s RV series, Zenith Aircraft, Sonex, Kitfox, and many more.
- Vintage and Classic Aircraft: Vintage and classic airplanes are always well-represented at AirVenture. These aircraft often capture the nostalgia and history of aviation. Examples include iconic models like the Piper Cub, Stearman biplanes, Waco aircraft, Beech Staggerwings, and various models from the Golden Age of aviation.
- Warbirds: EAA AirVenture attracts a significant number of military warbird aircraft. These are historic military planes that have been restored and maintained by dedicated enthusiasts. Popular warbirds include the P-51 Mustang, T-6 Texan, B-25 Mitchell, F4U Corsair, and many others.
- General Aviation Aircraft: General aviation aircraft, which include a broad range of single-engine and multi-engine planes, are commonly seen at AirVenture. These aircraft are typically used for personal and business travel, flight training, and recreational flying. Examples include Cessna 172, Piper Archer, Beechcraft Bonanza, Cirrus SR22, and Diamond DA40.
- Ultralights and Light Sport Aircraft: EAA AirVenture also showcases ultralights and light sport aircraft. These include small, lightweight, and often economical aircraft that fall within specific weight and performance limits. Ultralights and light sport aircraft are popular among recreational pilots. Examples include the Quicksilver GT, Flight Design CT, Zenith CH 750, and various powered parachutes and gyroplanes.
These are just a few examples of the types of private airplanes that arrive at EAA AirVenture. The event truly represents the rich diversity of aviation, with attendees flying in a wide range of aircraft from different eras and categories.
Private airplanes arriving at EAA AirVenture have specific procedures to follow to ensure a smooth and organized arrival process. Here is an overview of the arrival procedures for private airplanes:
- NOTAM and Pre-Registration: The EAA AirVenture event has a published Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) that provides important information for pilots flying to the event. It is crucial to review the NOTAM thoroughly to understand the specific procedures, frequencies, and any temporary airspace restrictions in effect during the event. Additionally, pilots are encouraged to pre-register their arrival online to provide necessary information and expedite the check-in process.
- Arrival Reservation: Pilots are required to have an arrival reservation slot to land at Wittman Regional Airport (KOSH), which is the primary airport for EAA AirVenture. The reservation system helps manage the flow of aircraft and ensure a safe and orderly arrival process. Pilots can obtain arrival reservations through the AirVenture website or by contacting EAA directly.
- Communication: Prior to arrival, pilots should monitor the designated arrival frequencies provided in the NOTAM and listen for any updates or instructions from Air Traffic Control (ATC) or EAA ground controllers. These frequencies are used to maintain efficient communication and facilitate coordination during the arrival process.
- Marshaling and Parking: Upon reaching Wittman Regional Airport, pilots will be directed by ground marshals who will guide them to the appropriate parking area. It is important to follow the instructions given by the marshals to ensure aircraft are parked safely and efficiently.
- Services and Facilities: Wittman Regional Airport offers a range of services and facilities for private aircraft, including fueling, aircraft services, and tie-down options. These services may be available through fixed-base operators (FBOs) or other providers at the airport. It is advisable to check in advance for any specific services needed and to decide accordingly.
It is important for pilots to stay informed about any updates or changes regarding arrival procedures by checking the EAA AirVenture website, reviewing NOTAM updates, and staying in contact with ATC or EAA personnel. Following the established procedures and guidelines will help ensure a smooth arrival experience for private airplanes at EAA AirVenture.
Camping at AirVenture
Camping at EAA AirVenture offers attendees a unique experience and a chance to immerse themselves in the aviation community. Here are some common ways people camp at the event:
- Tent Camping: Many attendees bring their tents and camp in designated tent camping areas. These areas provide space for pitching tents and typically offer basic amenities such as portable toilets, shower facilities, and access to water stations. Tent camping allows for a more traditional camping experience and is a popular choice for those who enjoy sleeping under the stars.
- RV Camping: EAA AirVenture provides dedicated areas for RV camping. Attendees can bring their recreational vehicles and set up camp in these designated spots. RV camping areas often have amenities like electrical hookups, water connections, and dump stations for sewage disposal. This option provides more comfort and convenience for those who prefer to have their own kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping quarters.
- Pop-Up Campers and Travel Trailers: Some attendees bring pop-up campers or travel trailers to AirVenture. These compact camping options offer a middle ground between tent camping and RV camping. They provide more comfort than a tent but are smaller and more portable than full-sized RVs.
- Group Camping: Some aviation organizations or groups organize their own camping areas within the larger camping sections. These groups often coordinate in advance and reserve a block of space for their members to camp together. Group camping fosters a sense of community and allows attendees to connect with like-minded individuals.
- One of the fun and more interesting aspects of camping in Camp Scholler is to walk around and see the ‘alternate’ means of camping. Some attendees build their own RV from every sort of vehicle imaginable. There are a lot of bus conversions, from school buses to city transit buses. Last year a pumper fire truck was converted into an RV with multiple stories topped off with a rooftop deck with large patio umbrellas for tables for lounging and watching the airshows. Another brave soul rents a U-Haul box truck and sets up cots in the box. There are a few huge safari tents like you might have seen in a Hollywood Out of Africa movie. They harken back to the British adventurer era and films like Tarzan. These colossal tents are super luxurious with night tables, reading lamps, and other amenities.
Tenting under the wing of an airplane is a popular option for some attendees at EAA AirVenture. This type of camping, known as “fly-in camping,” allows pilots to park their aircraft in a designated area and set up a tent under the wing for accommodation. It provides a unique experience of camping right next to the airplane.
As for the number of airplanes that arrive for EAA AirVenture, it can vary from year to year. EAA AirVenture is one of the largest aviation events in the world, attracting a significant number of aircraft and aviation enthusiasts. I n a typical year, the event sees tens of thousands of aircraft arrivals.
The exact number of airplanes that arrive at EAA AirVenture can fluctuate depending on factors such as weather conditions, geographic location, economic factors, and other variables. The event has welcomed a wide range of aircraft types, including homebuilt airplanes, vintage aircraft, warbirds, ultralights, rotorcraft, and many others.
It is worth noting that EAA AirVenture does not release specific attendance figures or aircraft arrival counts. However, it is safe to say that the event draws a substantial number of aircraft, making it a truly remarkable gathering for aviation enthusiasts from around the world.
Regardless of the camping option chosen, it is important to familiarize oneself with the camping guidelines and rules set by EAA AirVenture. These guidelines may include restrictions on open fires, generator usage, quiet hours, and any specific regulations to ensure safety and enjoyment for all campers.
___________________________________________
About the Author:
Michael Martin is the Vice President of Technology with Metercor Inc., a Smart Meter, IoT, and Smart City systems integrator based in Canada. He has more than 40 years of experience in systems design for applications that use broadband networks, optical fibre, wireless, and digital communications technologies. He is a business and technology consultant. He was a senior executive consultant for 15 years with IBM, where he worked in the GBS Global Center of Competency for Energy and Utilities and the GTS Global Center of Excellence for Energy and Utilities. He is a founding partner and President of MICAN Communications and before that was President of Comlink Systems Limited and Ensat Broadcast Services, Inc., both divisions of Cygnal Technologies Corporation (CYN: TSX). Martin served on the Board of Directors for TeraGo Inc (TGO: TSX) and on the Board of Directors for Avante Logixx Inc. (XX: TSX.V). He has served as a Member, SCC ISO-IEC JTC 1/SC-41 – Internet of Things and related technologies, ISO – International Organization for Standardization, and as a member of the NIST SP 500-325 Fog Computing Conceptual Model, National Institute of Standards and Technology. He served on the Board of Governors of the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) [now OntarioTech University] and on the Board of Advisers of five different Colleges in Ontario. For 16 years he served on the Board of the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE), Toronto Section. He holds three master’s degrees, in business (MBA), communication (MA), and education (MEd). As well, he has three undergraduate diplomas and five certifications in business, computer programming, internetworking, project management, media, photography, and communication technology. He has completed over 30 next generation MOOC continuous education in IoT, Cloud, AI and Cognitive systems, Blockchain, Agile, Big Data, Design Thinking, Security, Indigenous Canada awareness, and more.