Oshkosh, Wis (WSAU) — Final preparations are underway for the Experimental Aircraft Association’s “AirVenture” air show, set to start on Monday in Oshkosh. Dick Knapinski is communications director for EAA, and he says people and planes start arriving this weekend for the biggest air show in the world. According to Knapinski, “It’s wonderful for aviation buffs because there’s just so much and so many different airplanes and people here this year.”
Knapinski says there’s a lot that’s new this year, including the Drone Cage. It’s part of the show this year, Knapinski says, because we see it (drone technology) as a possible gateway into the flying world.” The ever-popular EAA Museum is expected to draw it’s biggest crowds of the year this coming week. Knapinski says “The museum traditionally draws 125 to 140,000 people each year. One third of that total attendance comes through during AirVenture week.”
Thousands of planes are expected for this year’s event including a B-52 bomber, the latest version of the famous “Airbus,” and the military’s brand new F-35 fighter jet, which will be making it’s first ever appearance at a civilian air show. Entertainment will include country music superstar and pilot Dierks Bentley on Monday night, and Gary Sinese and the Lt. Dan Band will be back for another year.
The seven day event officially opens on Monday and runs through July 26th.
by Terry Pezl, WSAU
