OSHKOSH — Aviation in Wisconsin will be highlighted during one of the largest aviation events in the United States. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is excited to celebrate aviation and participate along with aircraft enthusiasts from across the world for “the World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration.” The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) AirVenture, takes place July 22-28 and will host approximately 677,000 people and 10,000 aircraft and will generate more than $170 million in total economic impact to the region, according to EAA. Gov. Tony Evers proclaimed July 22-28, 2024, Aviation Week in Wisconsin.
This weeklong summer event includes daily airshows, hundreds of exhibitors that highlight aviation technology, different forums, workshops, and demonstrations and even a fly-in theater that plays feature films.
“Aeronautics plays such an important role in the economy of our state” WisDOT Secretary Craig Thompson said. “EAA AirVenture week is the perfect time to highlight how the state of Wisconsin is at the forefront of innovation in aviation. Our Bureau of Aeronautics (BOA) averages $70 million in funding for 80+ airport improvement projects annually and our network of airports enhances the economic vitality of Wisconsin communities.”
For those traveling to the region for AirVenture, please note that most road construction will pause for the event to open as many lanes as possible. WisDOT encourages drivers to “know before you go” with 511wi.gov or the 511 Wisconsin mobile app. For AirVenture specific parking, shuttles and transportation information please visit the following link: https://www.eaa.org/airventure/transportation
Although AirVenture may only be a weeklong event, aviation improvement, development and education are a year-round focus for WisDOT’s BOA. The Wisconsin State Airport System is a global gateway for travel and tourism that boasts:
● 123 public airports.
● 540 approved landing sites.
● 5 million annual passengers.
Attendees are encouraged to come visit the WisDOT BOA booth in Exhibit Building A during EAA AirVenture week to learn more about the Wisconsin airport system and the various aviation programs that are offered across the state.
The Aviation Careers Education (ACE) program promotes aviation, and space education, and provides students experiences in aviation related jobs. Because of the partnership between industry, schools, and government, the WisDOT BOA can promote aviation/space education, including career opportunities, as well as assist employers in developing the next generation of skilled workers in aviation.
Additionally, the Fly Wisconsin Airport Passport program promotes safety and education by encouraging recreational flight to all of Wisconsin’s public use airports. It also supports general aviation airports, area businesses and tourism. This is a collaborative program of WisDOT BOA and the Wisconsin Airport Management Association (WAMA).
To learn more about aviation efforts in Wisconsin, please visit the following links:
● https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/doing-bus/aeronautics/education/ace.aspx
● https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/travel/air/pilot-info/flywi.aspx
To learn more about EAA and AirVenture week visit: https://www.eaa.org/airventure.