EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026: The World's Largest Celebration of Aviationby Editor - Daniel Brindley | July 28, 2026

A first-hand look at the world's largest aviation gathering, where innovation, education, and a passion for flight come together.

Most years I attend EAA AirVenture Oshkosh not only to meet with advertisers and industry contacts for PureMRO.com, but also because I’m a genuine aviation enthusiast. I love exploring the incredible variety of aircraft, discovering the latest innovations, and sharing the experience with my family. My son hopes to learn to fly one day, and there is no better place to explore the many pathways into aviation than EAA Oshkosh. It’s an inspiring event that reminds you why so many people fall in love with flying.
The spirit of aviation shines no brighter than at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, held each year in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Widely regarded as the world’s largest aviation gathering, the event brings together pilots, aircraft owners, aerospace manufacturers, military personnel, aviation enthusiasts, and families from around the globe. Whether you’re passionate about vintage aircraft, military aviation, homebuilt airplanes, or the latest aerospace technology, there is something for everyone.

A Truly Global Aviation Event

Official attendance figures have not yet been released, but early estimates suggest that approximately 700,000 visitors attended the event, with nearly 1,000 exhibitors and more than 10,000 aircraft arrivals over the seven-day show.
Whether you’re attending for the aircraft, the technology, the networking opportunities, or simply the love of flight, EAA AirVenture Oshkosh remains one of the most remarkable aviation events in the world. It is an experience every aviation enthusiast should witness at least once.

Boeing

Boeing had one of the standout exhibits at the show, with a thoughtful approach that appealed to both aviation professionals and enthusiasts. The company showcased many areas of its business, including commercial aircraft, defense, space, maintenance, digital technology, parts, and training.
One of Boeing’s most meaningful initiatives is its partnership with the EAA to provide free admission for children. The goal is simple—encourage more families to attend and inspire the next generation to explore careers in aviation and aerospace.

Garmin

The Garmin Tent was bursting with products and people hungry to use them. Garmin has built a solid business in the Experimental aircraft space with their G3X touch eco system. Estimates would suggest 50% to 70% of experimental aircraft have at least on Garmin product (Display, Nav, Radio, Autopilot etc…)

Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines highlighted its Destination 225° career program, which provides aspiring pilots with a pathway toward becoming competitively qualified candidates for future Southwest First Officer positions. The program works alongside aviation universities, including Southeastern Oklahoma State University, and offers several different training pathways.
The airline also showcased opportunities for military pilots looking to transition into commercial aviation after completing their military service.

Homebuilt Aircraft

One of the most unique aspects of EAA AirVenture is the incredible number of amateur-built aircraft on display. Building your own airplane requires years of dedication, technical skill, and patience. Seeing builders complete their aircraft, have them inspected, and finally take to the skies must be an incredibly rewarding experience.
In the United States, amateur-built aircraft are certificated under FAR 21.191. To qualify, builders must complete the “major portion” (commonly known as the 51% rule) of the aircraft themselves for education or recreation. These aircraft cannot be used for commercial operations, although they may be flown recreationally and can carry passengers under FAA operating limitations.

Air Shows

For many visitors, the daily flying displays are the highlight of the week. Spectacular demonstrations filled the skies from morning until evening, featuring everything from historic warbirds to the latest military aircraft.
Crowd favorites included the incredible F-22 Raptor, demonstrating breathtaking speed, vertical climbs, and unmatched agility. The world-famous Royal Air Force Red Arrows also thrilled spectators with their signature nine-aircraft formation and their iconic red, white, and blue smoke trails.

Military Presence

The U.S. military plays a major role throughout AirVenture. Boeing Plaza featured an impressive lineup of aircraft, including the B-52 Stratofortress, C-5 Galaxy, and C-17 Globemaster III, giving visitors a rare opportunity to see these enormous aircraft up close.
The military’s presence extends well beyond public relations. AirVenture serves as an important recruiting opportunity, introducing young people to careers in the armed forces while also supporting operational readiness, pilot proficiency, and public engagement. It provides service members with an opportunity to demonstrate their capabilities while inspiring future generations of aviators.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a pilot, aircraft owner, maintenance professional, student, or simply someone with a passion for aviation, EAA AirVenture Oshkosh offers an experience unlike any other. It’s where innovation meets tradition, where lifelong friendships are made, and where the next generation of aviators finds its inspiration.

For one week each year, Oshkosh becomes the center of the aviation world. From Fortune 500 aerospace companies and military demonstrations to homebuilt aircraft and young people taking their first discovery flight, the event showcases every corner of the industry. Until next year, Adios!