{"id":15978,"date":"2024-07-31T10:27:02","date_gmt":"2024-07-31T07:27:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/aviation-news.info\/?p=15978"},"modified":"2024-07-31T10:27:02","modified_gmt":"2024-07-31T07:27:02","slug":"record-attendance-at-eaa-airventure-oshkosh-2024","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/aviation-news.info\/?p=15978","title":{"rendered":"Record Attendance at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024!"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Experimental Aircraft Association\u2019s (EAA) AirVenture 2024 was a spectacular celebration of aviation, aptly described by EAA CEO and Chairman Jack Pelton as \u201cInspiring the Future of Aviation.\u201d This year\u2019s event, held at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, broke attendance records and left an indelible mark on all who attended.<\/p>\n

\"EAA
Wednesday\u2019s fireworks and drone show was one of the best seen at AirVenture. Poto via EAA \u2013 The Spirit of Aviation<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Record-Breaking Attendance and Participation<\/strong><\/p>\n

AirVenture 2024 saw approximately 686,000 attendees, surpassing the previous record of 677,000 set in 2023. This remarkable turnout is a testament to the event\u2019s growing appeal and the successful efforts of EAA to broaden its reach. Reflecting on this achievement, Pelton remarked, \u201cOver the past decade, and especially since 2020, we have seen AirVenture move to another level, as we maintain the heart of the event while adding programs and activities that appeal to aviation enthusiasts of all interests. Kudos to our dedicated volunteers and staff who plan and adjust to make it work.\u201d More than 10,000 aircraft descended on east-central Wisconsin for the event, with Wittman Regional Airport alone witnessing 16,780 aircraft operations over the 11-day period from July 18-28. This translates to an average of approximately 113 takeoffs and landings per hour, highlighting the sheer scale and intensity of the event.<\/p>\n

A Diverse Showcase of Aircraft<\/strong><\/p>\n

The total number of show planes at AirVenture 2024 reached 2,846, featuring: \u2013 1,200 vintage aircraft \u2013 975 homebuilt aircraft \u2013 337 warbirds \u2013 154 ultralights and light planes \u2013 82 aerobatic aircraft \u2013 65 seaplanes and amphibians \u2013 23 rotorcraft \u2013 10 balloons<\/p>\n

\"EAA
Photo via EAA \u2013 The Spirit of Aviation<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

These figures underscore the event\u2019s rich diversity, catering to a wide array of aviation interests and passions. The spirit of community was palpable, with more than 15,000 camping sites accommodating over 40,000 visitors. The event\u2019s success was made possible by nearly 6,000 volunteers who contributed over 250,000 hours of their time. Additionally, 861 commercial exhibitors, a record number, showcased the latest in aviation technology and innovation. AirVenture 2024 also featured more than 1,600 forums, workshops, and presentations across 65 venues, providing attendees with numerous opportunities to learn and engage.<\/p>\n

EAA\u2019s social media channels reached more than 23.9 million people during AirVenture, with 3.7 million engagements and 17 million video views\u2014a 149% increase over 2023. The event gained nearly 45,000 new social media followers. Furthermore, over 142,000 hours of live streaming and on-demand videos were viewed, extending the event\u2019s reach far beyond the physical confines of Oshkosh. Internationally, 2,581 attendees registered at the International Visitors Tent, representing a record-setting 98 countries, marking a 9% increase over 2023. The actual number of international visitors was likely much higher, as many do not officially register.<\/p>\n

\"U.S.
U.S. Air Force Heritage Flight from OSH 24 featuring the F-35, A-10 Warthog, F-22, and F-16. Photo by Dave Witty via EAA<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The EAA Aviation Foundation\u2019s annual event, \u201cThe Gathering,\u201d attracted over 1,000 people and raised a record $2.8 million for aviation education programs, supporting EAA\u2019s mission to grow participation in aviation. AirVenture 2024 drew 836 media representatives from six continents, highlighting its global significance. The economic impact on the Oshkosh region, based on a 2017 University of Wisconsin Oshkosh study, was estimated at $170 million, benefiting five counties: Winnebago, Outagamie, Fond du Lac, Calumet, and Brown.<\/p>\n

Looking Ahead to 2025. As AirVenture 2024 came to a close, thoughts already turned to next year\u2019s event. Pelton hinted at exciting possibilities for EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2025, scheduled for July 21-27, 2025. \u201cWe\u2019ve already received plenty of ideas for next year and a little bit later this summer, we\u2019ll begin reviewing what might be possible for 2025. Our annual goal is to create a gathering of people and airplanes that is found nowhere else in the world, and continue to improve the experience for EAA members and visitors.\u201d<\/p>\n

EAA AirVenture 2024 was not just an event but an inspiring testament to the enduring passion for aviation, setting a high bar for future gatherings and cementing its place as a cornerstone of the aviation community. Dates for the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh fly-in convention at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, have been confirmed through 2027. Upcoming event dates are:<\/p>\n