EAA AirVenture 2023, held in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, has proven to be a remarkable success, setting new attendance records and welcoming aviation enthusiasts from across the globe. The official figures released by EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association) today reveal a staggering turnout of "approximately 677,000" attendees, surpassing last year's record of 650,000 visitors.
EAA CEO and President Jack Pelton expressed his pride in the event's success, despite the challenges posed by weather and logistics. He commended the dedication of volunteers and staff in organizing an outstanding event that brought the aviation world together.
The event witnessed more than 10,000 aircraft arriving at Wittman Regional Airport and nearby reliever airports, with a remarkable 21,883 aircraft operations logged in just an 11-day period at KOSH "ground zero." Notably, there were 3,365 show planes on display, including a record 1,497 vintage aircraft, 1,067 homebuilt aircraft, and 380 warbirds.
The significance of AirVenture extended beyond the physical event, as social media engagement skyrocketed, with over 18.3 million people interacting with EAA's social media channels during the event. Additionally, more than 1,400 forums, workshops, and presentations were held, providing valuable insights to aviation enthusiasts.
With the world gradually returning to normalcy, international visitors flocked to the event, representing 93 countries, marking a significant return of global interest in aviation.
Furthermore, the EAA Aviation Foundation's event, supporting aviation education programs, drew over 1,000 attendees and raised more than $2 million, contributing to EAA's efforts to promote aviation participation.
Overall, EAA AirVenture 2023 has solidified its position as a pinnacle event in the aviation world, setting new milestones and fostering a sense of unity and excitement within the aviation community.