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Army of Volunteers Gives AirVenture Its Lift

Last year, nearly 6,000 volunteers assisted before, during, and after the weeklong airshow in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

EAA AirVenture is the largest aviation event in the U.S., and it likely wouldn't happen at all were it not for the efforts of thousands of volunteers. [FLYING file photo]
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Key Takeaways:

  • EAA AirVenture relies heavily on thousands of volunteers (nearly 6,000 last year) who manage crucial operations, from parking to ground infrastructure, making the event possible.
  • Recent heavy rainfall has made parts of the grounds soggy, but organizers are implementing measures like enhanced drainage, strategic parking, and using materials such as wood chips and gravel to manage conditions.
  • Attendees are provided with logistical information, including tram services and Uber drop-off points, and reminded of "Oshkosh Rules" concerning conduct (e.g., picking up trash, not touching aircraft) and to bring patience.
  • The event encourages attendees to focus on the unifying love of aviation, leaving politics aside, and notes that specific aircraft displays (like B-17s) can vary due to operational costs and the outdoor nature of the show.
See a mistake? Contact us.

EAA AirVenture is the largest aviation event in the U.S. and it likely wouldn’t happen at all were it not for the efforts of thousands of volunteers. 

You’ll see volunteers at the show wearing vests. They do everything from parking cars and airplanes to driving trams and making sure the infrastructure of the grounds, such as walking paths and parking lots, are ready for use. 

Meg Godlewski

Meg Godlewski has been an aviation journalist for more than 24 years and a CFI for more than 20 years. If she is not flying or teaching aviation, she is writing about it. Meg is a founding member of the Pilot Proficiency Center at EAA AirVenture and excels at the application of simulation technology to flatten the learning curve. Follow Meg on Twitter @2Lewski.

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