EAA AVIATION CENTER, OSHKOSH, Wisconsin — The Experimental Aircraft Association‘s “Spirit of Aviation” mobile unit will visit a dozen events throughout the year, with its next stop March 10-12 at South by Southwest in Austin.
“We want to promote EAA, our passion for flight, and our mission of growing participation in aviation in a way that’s fun and engaging,” said Dave Chaimson, EAA’s vice president of marketing and business development. “The Spirit of Aviation mobile marketing unit brings EAA to life through immersive activities and virtual reality experiences, giving visitors a glimpse into the world of aviation, as well as inviting them to be part of EAA’s dynamic, growing, and innovative member community.”
The Spirit of Aviation mobile unit, made possible with support from the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA), made its first stop at the U.S. Sport Aviation Expo in Sebring, Florida, in January.
Other visits throughout the year include (tour schedule subject to change without notice):
- March 10-12: South by Southwest; Austin, Texas;
- April 4-9: SUN ‘n FUN; Lakeland, Florida;
- May 13-20: Joe Nall Week at Triple Tree Aerodrome; Woodruff, South Carolina;
- June 28-July 9: Summerfest; Milwaukee, Wisconsin;
- July 24-30: EAA AirVenture Oshkosh; Oshkosh, Wisconsin;
- Aug. 10-20: Illinois State Fair, Springfield, Illinois;
- Sept. 8-9: AOPA Fly-In; Norman, Oklahoma;
- Oct. 7-15: Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta; Albuquerque, New Mexico;
- Oct. 28-29: Fort Worth Alliance Air Show; Fort Worth, Texas.
Visitor experiences include flight time in two Redbird TD flight simulators, a “Welcome to EAA” 360° virtual reality video, and two hands-on EAA-branded activities: A sheet metal cookie cutter build project sponsored by Aircraft Spruce & Specialty, and an FT Venture foam glider build, sponsored by Flitetest.
The 53-foot unit is also a rolling billboard for EAA, which includes graphics highlighting a Long-EZ homebuilt aircraft and its futuristic design representing EAA’s experimental aircraft roots. It also features visibility for EAA AirVenture Oshkosh and the 25th anniversary of the Young Eagles program.
“Naturally we want to welcome current EAA members at aviation events, but this experience reaches far beyond to non-aviation events, where we can engage enthusiasts of all ages who are fascinated with flight,” Chaimson said. “EAA has always been open to everyone who wishes to participate, and this will allow EAA to connect with more people throughout the country!”
How about coming to Clevend Natonal AirShow
How about some of the Bike Week events, such as Daytona or Stugis? There’s tens of thousands of people drawn to those events, and many of them have interests in exciting activities…, and lots of “discretionary funds” available that perhaps would include flight training… hum.
Just saying!
DeKalb Peachtree airport (PDK) would be a good location for “The Spirit of Aviation” to make a stop on a future tour.
What about the Rocky Mountain States – especially Montana and Wyoming? How do we apply to be on the route in future years?
The selection of SXSW is an inspired choice – we in aviation have, for too long, “marketed to ourselves” by going to the same industry events. The fact is, folks aren’t coming to us… Therefore – we must go to them… Frankly, I want to see aviation things at more “pop culture” and youth based events, like San Diego’s Comic Con, state fairs, scout jamborees, and even Burning Man.
The “same old-same old” isn’t working, and I am proud that EAA is pushing the envelope in this.
We have three sites for mobile unit to visit on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Billy Mitchell Field in Frisco, Dare Regional Airport with Museum in Manteo, Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills where we celebrate the first flight on December 17. Contact First Flight Society for help if needed.
Will there be advanced registration offered to sign up for Redbird flight sim time?
+1
El Paso misses out again. It seems like we live on Mars sometimes.
What about the West Coast (LA and Orange) Counties) in CA where there3
are numerous GA enthusiasts??
Not a very good selection of cities and or states.
MUST AGREE!
Plus 1! El Paso, left out again. Feels like we’re on Mars sometimes. 🙁