Aircraft representing the earliest era of powered flight will take center stage at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026, as the Experimental Aircraft Association’s 73rd annual fly-in convention returns to Wittman Regional Airport on July 20–26. A special exhibit titled “Pioneers of Flight” will bring together a rare collection of original aircraft, reproductions, and replicas from the first 25 years following the Wright brothers’ historic success at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, in December 1903. Displayed in AirVenture’s Vintage Aircraft area, the collection highlights groundbreaking designs from both American and international innovators.
“The earliest airplanes were often designed and built by individuals, and by today’s standards, they can appear fragile,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who oversees AirVenture attractions. “Yet these aircraft achieved the first great milestones in aviation. The speed of progress during aviation’s first quarter century is remarkable, especially when you consider how far the technology advanced by the late 1920s.” Aircraft currently confirmed for the Pioneers of Flight display include:
Additional aircraft are expected to be added to the collection in the coming months. Planned activities include educational forums hosted by EAA’s Vintage Aircraft Association, evening presentations focused on early aviation history, engine run-ups, and limited aircraft demonstrations during afternoon air shows. A detailed schedule will be released as plans are finalized. EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is known as “The World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration” and serves as the annual membership convention of the Experimental Aircraft Association. More information, including advance ticket and camping purchases, is available at www.EAA.org/airventure. Additional details about EAA and its programs can be found at www.EAA.org or by calling 800-JOIN-EAA (800-564-6322).
