The many facets of aviation used for the public benefit will be highlighted as part of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2023, which takes place July 24-30 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. This year’s event marks the Experimental Aircraft Association’s 70th fly-in convention, as the event traditionally draws visitors from more than 80 nations.
While elements of public benefit flying will be shown throughout AirVenture week, the primary focus will be on Saturday, July 29. That day, a variety of aircraft relating to the theme will be on display on the showcase Boeing Plaza, with additional aircraft participating in that day’s afternoon air show.
“Public benefit flying has a beneficial effect on people’s everyday lives, even if they don’t realize it,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “From flying cancer patients to treatment and air ambulance operations to water rescues and even saving threatened animals, aviation has a long, notable history of being used for the public good – often by people who volunteer their time and aircraft to make it happen.”
The Air Care Alliance is assisting with the organization of the salute to public benefit flying. On July 29, airplanes on Boeing Plaza will include those representing the Alliance, as well Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Coast Guard, Wisconsin Air National Guard, JAARS, ThedaCare, Buffalo Airways, and FedEx. All these display aircraft have been used in humanitarian or public benefit missions. The Air Care Alliance will make a special award presentation prior to that day’s afternoon air show.
In addition, the JAARS Pilatus aircraft will be used each day to deliver the skydivers and American flag that open AirVenture’s afternoon air show. Forums and presentations highlighting the work of public benefit flying will also be part of the weeklong forum schedule, with a special emphasis on July 29 forums.
