Zenith Aircraft Company’s 35th annual Homecoming Open Hangar Days and Fly-In brought Zenith builders, owners, pilots, and aviation enthusiasts from across the country to the Zenith kit aircraft factory in Mexico, Missouri.
Held Sept. 18-19, 2026, the annual Homecoming has grown into one of the nation’s largest gatherings dedicated to a single kit aircraft manufacturer, combining education, airplanes, and camaraderie among the Zenith community, according to company officials.
The two-day event featured a full schedule of hands-on workshops, technical seminars, and panel discussions, many led by experienced Zenith builders and pilots sharing their knowledge and experiences.
Back by popular demand, Zenith also hosted a women-only aircraft-building workshop designed to introduce more women to the skills of building an aircraft, company officials added.
The event also included a tour of the company’s kit manufacturing facilities, including recently expanded areas of the factory.
Despite near-record high temperatures, the traditional evening gatherings remained a highlight of the weekend, with two outdoor dinners held on the factory ramp surrounded by Zenith aircraft, company officials noted.
Friday evening’s banquet attracted more than 250 guests. During that event, Zenith Aircraft President Sebastien Heintz provided company updates. The Experimental Aircraft Association’s Charlie Becker discussed the latest developments surrounding FAA MOSAIC and expanded Sport Pilot privileges, as well as plans for the 2027 One Week Wonder project at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, where volunteers and youth participants will build a Zenith CH 750 Super Cruzer during the week-long event.
Pilot and owners who flew in with their Zeniths were recognized and a number of awards were presented.
A select group of suppliers and vendors serving the homebuilt aircraft community also participated in the Homecoming, giving builders, owners, and pilots an opportunity to learn more about the products and services available to complete, equip, maintain, and fly their aircraft.
Longtime sponsors continued their support of the event, with numerous prizes awarded throughout the weekend. Aircraft Spruce & Specialty served as the major event sponsor, while EAA Chapter 944 once again prepared a hot breakfast both mornings. Friday’s breakfast was sponsored by ULPower Engines/Wheels & Wings, with Saturday’s breakfast sponsored by AVEMCO Aviation Insurance.
The annual Zenith Homecoming is presented by the Chris Heintz Foundation, Inc., established by the Heintz brothers to preserve and share the work and aircraft designs of their father, aeronautical engineer Chris Heintz, and to promote education and participation in homebuilt aviation.
Planning has already begun for next year’s Zenith Homecoming, set for Sept. 17-18, 2027, at Mexico Memorial Airport in Mexico, Missouri.
For more information: ZenithAir.net
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