In July 2017, we flew our plane to the EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh Wisconsin. Many years had past since I had last attended. It was good to be back and EAA AirVenture did not disappoint. The weather was just perfect. Here are my brief highlights:
Warbirds were in full array. The quality and quantity of restored military aircraft was impressive. I’ve never seen so many. I believe Baby Boomers are spending their retirement dollars on warbirds and enjoying every minute of doing so.
The world famous Blue Angels provided a spectacular physics defying aerial presentation every day we were there. And, each afternoon special aviators took to the sky to display their airplanes and flying skills.
The EAA Aviation Museum was an impressive pause from the activities outside. I had not previously been to the museum. They have a collection of more than 200 historic airplanes and many world-class galleries. I found the documentation of EAA members that have been leaders in innovation a compelling story. We need that passion in the next generation of pilots.
Cirrus Aircraft was a must stop at AirVenture. They had a large block of space to exhibit their aircraft, including three Vision Jets on prominent display along with about four SR22’s airplanes. In addition, Cirrus had a vast offering of branded items from shirts, hats and other accessories. Their VIP lounge was a refreshing part of The Cirrus Life.
We attended several EAA Aviation Seminars. There’s a topic for just about every area of interest. Some of these can be found on You Tube.
There’s no doubt that drones are changing aviation. Commercial applications are expanding every day. Currently, more than 500,000 individuals have registered with the FAA as drone pilots.
Light weight cameras on drones of all sizes are allowing people to experience the visual nature of flight with smartphone VR headsets. Drones may be a stepping stone which propels more youth into careers in aviation. “The drones are coming” and they will be a force that shapes the future of general aviation.
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