Two remarkable aircraft from Austria’s The Flying Bulls collection will make their only public American air show appearance in 2026 at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. The 73rd Experimental Aircraft Association fly-in gathering takes place July 20–26 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The announcement was made on December 10 during the International Council of Air Shows convention in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Flying Bulls will bring their meticulously restored Douglas DC-6B and Lockheed P-38 Lightning, each aircraft notable for its distinctive history and extensive restoration journey.
Rick Larsen noted that the arrival of these aircraft reinforces AirVenture’s global appeal. “The Flying Bulls aircraft are another example of the world coming to Oshkosh to celebrate flight every summer. These airplanes represent some of the finest restorations of their kind, and including Oshkosh in their American tour ensures they will be seen and appreciated by one of the most knowledgeable aviation audiences anywhere.”
The Lockheed P-38, formally owned by iconic warbird pilot Lefty Gardner, is currently the only airworthy example of the type operating in Europe. Originally built in the United States, it is now based at The Flying Bulls’ Hangar-7 facility in Salzburg and serves as a striking representative of the twin-boom WWII fighter.
The Douglas DC-6B, manufactured in 1958, began its service with Yugoslavian airline JAT. It later became the personal aircraft of Marshall Josef Tito before being sold to Zambian president Kenneth Kaunda in the 1970s. After years of abandonment at Lusaka Airport, the aircraft was acquired by The Flying Bulls in 2000, followed by a comprehensive three-year restoration.
Eskil Ambal, CEO of The Flying Bulls, emphasized the significance of the journey. “The moment has arrived — we are crossing the Atlantic and we’re coming to Oshkosh. Our ride across the Atlantic is in a DC-6, just as she was meant to do. But she’s not making the trip alone. You never leave your wingman, so the P-38 is coming with her.”
The Flying Bulls collection features more than 40 aircraft, ranging from WWII fighters to contemporary helicopters. The group originated in the 1980s through the efforts of Tyrolean Airlines pilot Sigi Angerer and grew further through the support of Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz, who helped formalize The Flying Bulls organization in 1999. During AirVenture, the DC-6B and P-38 will be displayed on Boeing Plaza and will also participate in the afternoon air shows throughout the week. For more information, visit www.flyingbulls.at.
About EAA AirVenture Oshkosh
EAA AirVenture Oshkosh serves as the annual gathering and celebration for members of the Experimental Aircraft Association and is recognized as “The World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration.” Details on advance tickets, camping, and event planning are available at www.EAA.org/airventure. Additional information on EAA and its programs can be found at www.EAA.org or by calling 800-JOIN-EAA (800-564-6322).
