In a display of aviation enthusiasm, an impressive crowd estimated at 677,000 individuals graced the grounds of Wittman Regional Airport for EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2023, setting a record that surpassed the previous year’s attendance of 650,000 in 2022.
This monumental achievement underscores the resounding success of the now iconic event and also its significance in the aviation world.
Embracing Challenges and Celebrating Triumphs
EAA CEO and chairman, Jack Pelton, celebrated the extraordinary accomplishments of the event. He expressed his admiration for the participants, volunteers, and staff who rose to meet challenges, including unpredictable weather and intricate logistics, to orchestrate an unparalleled gathering.
Their collective efforts transformed hurdles into stepping stones, amplifying the pride in organizing a truly outstanding event.
Taking to the Skies: A Spectacle of Aircraft
The skies above Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh and other neighboring airports bore witness to an awe-inspiring parade of aviation prowess. A grand total of more than 10,000 aircraft graced the event, each a testament to human ingenuity and a passion for flight. Over an 11-day period from July 20 to 30, Wittman alone experienced a bustling 21,883 aircraft operations, averaging around 148 takeoffs and landings per hour during the airport’s operational hours.
Showplanes: A Visual Feast
Among the myriad aircraft, a stunning collection of 3,365 showplanes took center stage. This diverse assembly included a record-breaking 1,497 vintage aircraft parked proudly, alongside 1,067 expertly crafted homebuilt aircraft.
The sky also witnessed the graceful presence of 380 warbirds, a three percent increase from the previous year. Additionally, 194 ultralights, 134 seaplanes and amphibians, 52 aerobatic aircraft, and 41 rotorcraft contributed to the tapestry of aviation marvels.
The Aviation Lifestyle: Camping and Volunteering
The event wasn’t just about the aircraft; it was about fostering a sense of community and shared passion. More than 13,000 campsites accommodated both aircraft and drive-in camping, serving as temporary homes for an estimated 40,000 visitors.
The spirit of volunteerism soared as over 5,500 dedicated individuals contributed an impressive total of more than 250,000 hours to ensure the event’s success.
A Showcase of Innovation: Commercial Exhibitors and Educational Sessions
The event also served as a platform for innovation and learning. A record-setting 848 commercial exhibitors showcased leading products and services, emphasizing the event’s significance as a hub of technological advancement.
More than 1,400 engaging sessions, including forums, workshops, and presentations, enriched attendees with knowledge and insights, fostering an environment of continuous growth and exploration.
Social Media and International Presence
In the digital age, connections transcend physical boundaries. EAA’s social media channels buzzed with over 18.3 million individuals during AirVenture, marking a remarkable 78 percent increase from the previous year.
The engagement reached new heights with 1.9 million interactions. Moreover, online engagement with EAA video clips surged, amassing over 189,000 hours of viewing time, a testament to the event’s global appeal.
A Global Gathering
EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2023 welcomed international guests with open arms. A staggering 2,372 attendees from a remarkable 93 countries converged under the International Visitors Tent, showcasing the event’s ability to bridge cultures and connect aviation enthusiasts worldwide. Accounting for unregistered international attendees, the true magnitude of global participation was even more substantial.
Supporting Aviation Education
The event wasn’t solely about celebration; it carried a profound purpose. The EAA Aviation Foundation leveraged the event to raise more than $2 million, funds dedicated to nurturing aviation education programs.
With the participation of over 1,000 individuals, the foundation demonstrated its unwavering commitment to cultivating a passion for aviation, ensuring its enduring legacy for generations to come.
Event Coverage and Impact
Media representatives flocked to the event, numbering an impressive 863 and spanning six continents. This vast coverage showcased the event’s far-reaching significance, encapsulating its impact on a global scale.
The economic implications were equally substantial, as the event injected a staggering $170 million into the economies of five counties in the Oshkosh region, affirming its role as an economic powerhouse.
EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024
The curtain may have fallen on EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2023, but it appears the team will soon begin planning for next year’s event.
With preparations for EAA AirVenture 2024 set to start next month, Jack Pelton, EAA’s CEO and chairman, revealed tantalizing prospects, including the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force.
With a wealth of ideas from EAA members and enthusiasts, the stage is set for another chapter of aviation excellence.
View the full EEA AirVenture Oshkosh 2023 photo gallery here.