If you were there in person, you already know: AirVenture 2017 was a big success. If you missed this year’s excitement in Oshkosh, let the numbers tell you everything you need to know. More than half a million people attended, making this the biggest AirVenture ever, and those guests were treated to more than 10,000 aircraft and so many thrilling air shows. We’d say EAA has its work cut out to make the 2018 show better than this one, but we won’t be shocked when it happens.
So much happened at this year’s AirVenture that it was almost impossible to cover it all, but here’s a look back at some of our favorite moments. We’ve probably missed a few, so feel free to let us know what you loved and especially which aircraft provided your favorite moments.
What made it even more special, though, was the Blue Angels teaming up with the B-29 superfortress “Doc,” which was also making its first appearance in Oshkosh.EAAWatching from the ground as Doc and FiFi took off and flew together was unforgettable, but this image is breathtaking.Scott Slocum/EAAThere were nearly 3,000 showplanes at this year’s AirVenture, so fans got a little something of everything.Jon WhittleThe Aeroshell Aerobatic team performed throughout the week, and it was everything we’ve come to expect.Jon WhittleIt’shard to even keep track of how many aerobatic performances we watched on any given day.Jon WhittleThe planes on the ground were also exciting. Some were very large, too.Jon WhittleGene Soucy Airshows put on some incredible performances, as usual, and Gene and Theresa Stokes were also kind enough to meet with fans throughout the AirVenture experience.Jon WhittleAnd there were warbirds this year. So many warbirds.Jon WhittleOne of the truly incredible moments was spotting 101-year-old Dick Cole, the last surviving Doolittle Raider, riding through Warbird Alley, shaking hands with fans.FlyingBlue Origin’s New Shepard rocket was on display, and space enthusiasts even got to climb inside a crew capsule and take a simulated trip to space.Jeff Bezos/Blue OriginThe Walkabout Flying Tigers thrilled fans as part of the 75th anniversary tribute to the Doolittle Raiders.Jon WhittleThe Doolittle tribute was simply unbelievable, featuring more planes than we could count.Jon WhittleIn a very pleasant surprise, comic book icon Stan Lee showed up to announce a partnership between his foundation and EAA’s Young Eagles.EAAAnd then there were more exhilarating performances in the air.Jon WhittleAnd more.Jon WhittleAnd even more.Jon WhittleSome people needed a break from the action. There were more than 10,000 campers on hand all week.Jon WhittleSome of those campers were a little more creative than others.Jon WhittleIn the end, it was the biggest AirVenture show to date. We can’t wait to see what next year has in store.EAA
