OSHKOSH, WI (WTAQ) – EAA continues in Oshkosh with big plans to celebrate special anniversaries.
The event itself is one of those milestones, the 50th annual event is off and running.
“It went fast too,” says Dick Knapinski, Senior Communications Advisor. “We had all the things going on and people were just coming in to enjoy the entire week of aviation.”
He says, Tuesday kicks off another anniversary that they will be celebrating in a big way.
“The 50th anniversary of the Boeing 747, the Queen of the Skies it is known as. For that anniversary, we have one right here at Boeing Plaza.”
The 747 will be staying in Oshkosh until Thursday.
Another special aircraft that just arrived is Doc.
It is one of two flying B-29 bombers in the world.
“Doc was created by a group from Wichita called “Doc’s Friends.”
But the aviation celebration isn’t just about history, though.
Organizers have been spending time to highlight some of the innovative features at this year’s celebration.
Visitors will have an opportunity to take a look into the future when they step inside the Aviation Gateway Park.
“We brought it to the grounds about four years ago,” explains Dave Chaimson, V.P. of Marketing with EAA. “[We’re] really trying to bring what’s happening, what are some of the trends, where are things going in the world of aviation.”
He says this area is the place to be for any youths that are interested in aviation as a possible career path in the future.
“Whether it’s to become a pilot or mechanics or a meteorologist,” he explains. “Anything that you really want to do in terms of opportunities in aviation.”
Also, the “Black Fly” is currently on display.
“From a company called opener, they’re out of California,” says Chaimson. “This is considered a personal aerial vehicle.”
The inside of this aircraft looks nothing like what you’d see in some of the more heavy-duty planes.
“It’s got eight electric motors, we call it an electric VTOL (vertical take-off and landing),” he explains. “You don’t need a lot of room to launch it, you could perhaps even launch it from your backyard.”
EAA Airventure, celebrating 50-years in Oshkosh, continues through this Sunday.
