If you're a pilot and you haven't been to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, it belongs on your bucket list. Held annually at Wittman Regional Airport (KOSH) in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, AirVenture is the world's largest aviation event — a week-long celebration of everything that flies, from homebuilts and warbirds to the latest in aerospace technology. And the best way to experience it? Fly in.
AirVenture 2026: The Basics
AirVenture 2026 is expected to run during the last full week of July (dates typically confirmed by EAA in early spring). The event draws over 600,000 visitors, 10,000+ aircraft, and 2,500+ exhibitors over seven days. During AirVenture week, Wittman Regional Airport becomes the busiest airport in the world, handling more operations than O'Hare.
The Legendary NOTAM
The AirVenture NOTAM is unlike anything else in aviation. Published months before the event, this 40+ page document governs every aspect of arrival and departure procedures at KOSH. Read it. Study it. Know it cold. The NOTAM establishes special flight rules, arrival corridors, and communication procedures that replace normal ATC operations.
Key points every pilot must understand:
- The Fisk Arrival: Most VFR arrivals follow a specific route from Ripon to Fisk, then to KOSH. You'll fly at specific altitudes based on aircraft type (high-wing vs. low-wing), maintain specific airspeeds (90 knots for most GA aircraft), and follow the railroad tracks. Arrival controllers stationed at Fisk will identify your aircraft type and give you a colored dot for runway assignment.
- Rock Your Wings: When the controller calls your aircraft type, you acknowledge by rocking your wings — no radio transmission. This reduces frequency congestion and is one of the most unique procedures in aviation.
- No-Radio Arrivals: There are procedures for NORDO aircraft. AirVenture embraces all of aviation, including vintage aircraft without electrical systems.
- Spacing: Maintain half-mile trail spacing. The key to the Fisk arrival working is everyone maintaining speed and spacing discipline.
Where to Stay: Camping on the Field
The quintessential AirVenture experience is camping under your wing. The EAA grounds have several camping areas:
- North 40: The main aircraft camping area. Park your airplane, pitch your tent next to it, and spend the week surrounded by thousands of other aviation enthusiasts. It's loud, social, and unforgettable.
- Scholler Campground: For those driving in or wanting more traditional campground amenities. Showers, restrooms, and a short walk to the grounds.
- Vintage Camping: Located near the Vintage Aircraft area, this is the spot for antique and classic aircraft owners. The evening gatherings here are legendary.
If camping isn't your style, hotels in the Oshkosh/Appleton/Fond du Lac area book up months in advance. Homeowners also rent rooms and houses during the event — check EAA's housing resources early.
What to See
AirVenture is overwhelming in the best possible way. Here are the highlights:
- Daily Airshow: Two-plus hours of aerobatics, military demonstrations, and formation flying every afternoon. The afternoon airshow alone is worth the trip.
- Warbirds: The world's largest gathering of warbird aircraft, from P-51 Mustangs to B-29s. Warbird Row is a living museum.
- Homebuilts: Thousands of homebuilt aircraft on display — the heart of EAA's mission. Van's RVs, Glasairs, and increasingly, electric and experimental designs.
- Innovation Pavilion: The latest in aviation technology, from electric propulsion to urban air mobility. This is where the future of aviation lives.
- Forums and Workshops: Hundreds of educational sessions on everything from sheet metal skills to airspace policy. Many forums feature legendary figures in aviation.
- Night Airshow: The Wednesday and Saturday night airshows feature pyrotechnics, LED-lit aircraft, and fireworks. Arrive early for a good spot.
On the Field
Several aviation businesses operate right on the AirVenture grounds year-round. Basler Turbo Conversions (known for their DC-3/BT-67 turboprop conversions) is based at KOSH, and Fox Valley Technical College operates aviation maintenance training programs on the field. During the show, the entire airport transforms into an aviation city with restaurants, shops, and exhibits along every taxiway.
Departure Tips
Sunday departure can be chaotic as thousands of aircraft try to leave simultaneously. Experienced AirVenture pilots recommend:
- Leave early: Saturday afternoon or Sunday at first light. The Sunday midday rush is brutal.
- Or stay late: Depart Monday when the crowds have thinned. Some of the best hangar flying happens Sunday night after the show officially ends.
- Follow the NOTAM departure procedures: They're specific about departure corridors and altitudes. Don't freelance.
- Check weather carefully: Late July in Wisconsin can produce afternoon thunderstorms. Have an alternate plan.
The Pilgrimage
AirVenture isn't just an air show — it's a pilgrimage. It's where a teenager sees a homebuilt and decides to become an engineer. Where a private pilot meets the astronaut who flew the airplane she built in her garage. Where a warbird pilot tells stories that would otherwise be lost. Every pilot should make the trip to KOSH at least once. And almost everyone who goes once goes back.
Start planning your AirVenture 2026 trip now. Check out Wittman Regional Airport (KOSH) and eastern Wisconsin aviation services in the Aeradex directory.