November 14, 2024November 14, 2024

The Making of a BIG Propeller for EAA’s Pheasant: Part 1

By Story and photos by Paul Adams, EAA Chapter 675 President In the title you may notice two things. First, the word “BIG,” and second, “Part 1.” Well, these two ... Read more

November 13, 2024November 13, 2024

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Washington Van’s Aircraft RV-7

Homebuilding, Member Stories

By Michael “Z” Zyskowski, EAA 669825 This piece originally ran in the October 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. When the August issue of EAA Sport Aviation landed on ... Read more

November 13, 2024November 13, 2024

Bad Choices

Flying Tips, Member Stories

By Robert N. Rossier, EAA 472091 This piece originally ran in Robert’s Stick and Rudder column in the October 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. Every now and then ... Read more

November 7, 2024November 7, 2024

Volunteer Spotlight — Linda Thorn

AirVenture, Member Stories, Volunteers

This piece originally ran in the October 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. Linda Thorn, EAA 842022, was honored at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024 as the Dorothy Hilbert Volunteer ... Read more

November 7, 2024November 7, 2024

Grumman F8F-2/G-58A Bearcat: An Air-to-Air Photo Mission

History, Member Stories, Warbirds

Story and photos by Todd, EAA 1571783, and Kelley Whitaker, EAA 1571782 Todd, EAA 1571783, and Kelley Whitaker, EAA 1571782, of WhitPics Media had the opportunity to attend the 2024 ... Read more

November 5, 2024November 5, 2024

Zenith: My Very Limited History With the Company

Bits and Pieces, Flying Tips, Member Stories

By Mike Davenport, Vancouver, British Columbia A recent flight in the Zenith company’s best-selling aircraft to date, the CH750 STOL, reminded me that I have had a small involvement with ... Read more

November 5, 2024November 5, 2024

The Dumbing Down of the Flight Deck

Bits and Pieces, Member Stories

By John Wyman, EAA 462533, Chapter 266, Montreal There is a dynamic to two people working in a cockpit. For a long time now, the modern airliner has only had ... Read more

October 31, 2024October 31, 2024

An Evil Headwind

Member Stories, Ultralights

By Larry Fleming This piece originally ran in the September 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. The sun had risen on an early summer morning, as I prepared Nancy ... Read more

October 31, 2024October 31, 2024

Maintenance for Reliability

Flying Tips, Member Stories

By Vic Syracuse, EAA Lifetime 180848 This piece originally ran in Vic’s Checkpoints column in the September 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. I know there’ve been a few ... Read more

October 31, 2024October 31, 2024

The Old Man and The Kid

Honoring The Past, Learning to Fly, Member Stories

By Brian Hart, EAA 1457879 The Old Man was not always old; he had once been young and dreamed of flight. And when he was young, he had an Old ... Read more

October 31, 2024October 31, 2024

All I Really Need to Know, I Learned From My Flight Instructor

Honoring The Past, Learning to Fly, Member Stories

By Tucker Axum, EAA Lifetime 1418919 “Mine was born with feathers,” I emphasized to settle the dispute between my two pilot buddies who joined me for their maiden pilgrimage to ... Read more

October 24, 2024October 24, 2024

Are You an Airplane Hack or a Smooth Operator?

Learning to Fly, Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

By Steve Krog, EAA 173799 This piece originally ran in Steve’s Classic Instructor column in the September 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. Sitting at the picnic table and ... Read more

October 24, 2024October 24, 2024

Two New Pilots in Grand Rapids: Meet Emily and Nathan

Learning to Fly, Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

By Joel Kersting, EAA 882109 On August 21, 2024, Emily Ericson and Nathan Ewens both passed their private pilot checkrides, becoming certified private pilots. Emily, EAA 1571675, is a senior ... Read more

October 24, 2024October 24, 2024

EAA Chapters 26 and 441 Join in Peter Bowers Tribute

History, Member Stories

By Ron Wanttaja, EAA 275698, EAA Chapter 26 & 441 Newsletter Editor Dick Scobee Field in Auburn, Washington, just south of Seattle, has been painting large murals on the end ... Read more

October 17, 2024October 17, 2024

EAA’s Family Values

Chapters, Member Stories

If you ask anyone in the aviation world what aviation means to them, you’re likely to hear something along the lines of how important the aviation community is to them. ... Read more

October 17, 2024November 12, 2024

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Washington Murphy Rebel

History, Member Stories

By Tim Fiedler, EAA Lifetime 256056 This piece originally ran in the September 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. This was started in 1992 by Jim LePard, an A&P/IA ... Read more

October 17, 2024October 17, 2024

Target Practice

Flying Tips, Member Stories

By Robert N. Rossier, EAA 472091 This piece originally ran in Robert’s Stick and Rudder column in the September 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. A long time ago, ... Read more

October 17, 2024October 17, 2024

EAA Chapter 838 Celebrates Major Milestones in Aviation Community

Chapters, Member Stories

EAA Chapter 838 in Racine, Wisconsin, is excited to announce several significant achievements and events marking a vibrant period for the chapter. The chapter has proudly welcomed its 500th member, ... Read more

October 15, 2024October 15, 2024

EAA Chapters at Flying Cloud Girls in Aviation Day

Celebrating Women, Member Stories

By Mark Kolesar, EAA 294238 On September 21, 2024, members of EAA Chapters 25, 54, and 1229 worked together to promote EAA programs such as Young Eagles, local chapter activities, ... Read more

October 10, 2024October 10, 2024

Volunteer Spotlight — Mary Pennington-Hoyt

Member Stories, Volunteers

This piece originally ran in the September 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. Mary Pennington-Hoyt, EAA Lifetime 1057675, is passionate about empowering young girls and women to participate in ... Read more

October 10, 2024October 11, 2024

A Beginner’s Guide to Propeller Inspections

Flying Tips, Member Stories

By Lisa Turner, EAA Lifetime 509911 This piece originally ran in Lisa’s Airworthy column in the September 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. I left the FBO and walked ... Read more

October 3, 2024October 3, 2024

A Big Trip for a Little Meerkat

Member Stories, Volunteers

By Karl Jensen, EAA 554322, EAA Chapter 322 Many EAA members here in South Africa help with flights for The Bataleurs, a group of volunteer pilots who fly for the ... Read more

October 3, 2024October 3, 2024

Hang Loose

History, Member Stories

By David Smith, EAA 1298935, and Ronald Smith This piece originally ran in the August 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. Following much reporting on the Hang Loose hang ... Read more

October 3, 2024October 3, 2024

Stupid Pilot Decisions

Member Stories

By Vic Syracuse, EAA Lifetime 180848 This piece originally ran in Vic’s Checkpoints column in the August 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. Well. That’s a title that should ... Read more

October 1, 2024October 1, 2024

The Power of 3 – Part Deux

Bits and Pieces, Member Stories

By Michael Baranowsky, EAA 1381366, Oshawa, Ontario, CYOO Builders like details. A lot of details. Reading an article about a triple redundant avionics panel without knowing the Mil-Spec of the ... Read more

October 1, 2024October 1, 2024

Dinner at Mary’s

Bits and Pieces, Member Stories

By Mike Davenport, EAA 89102, Langley, British Columbia The Thursday night dinner special at Mary’s Bleue Moon Café was fish and chips. What better reason does one need to take ... Read more

September 26, 2024September 26, 2024

I Remember When…

Learning to Fly, Member Stories

By Steve Krog, EAA 173799 This piece originally ran in Steve’s Classic Instructor column in the August 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. I remember when learning to fly ... Read more

September 26, 2024September 26, 2024

A Different Sort of Restoration

History, Member Stories

By Kevin Renshaw, EAA 133861 On May 30, the Fort Worth Aviation Museum (FWAM) unveiled the static display restoration of YF-16 No. 2 (USAF tail number 72-01568) following a four-year ... Read more

September 26, 2024September 26, 2024

A Dream Takes Flight in a Remote Indian Village

Homebuilding, Member Stories

By Sabu Sivaraman, EAA Lifetime 709426 Though India has a very long aviation history and is now considered the fastest growing aviation market, experimental aviation or recreational aviation is almost ... Read more

September 19, 2024September 20, 2024

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Ontario Bowers Fly Baby Biplane

Flying Tips, Homebuilding, Member Stories

In a recent piece for EAA Sport Aviation, EAA member Scott Knowlton takes us through the rebuild of a derelict Fly Baby biplane.

September 19, 2024September 19, 2024

Uncomfortable Is Good

Learning to Fly, Member Stories

By Matt Ringen, EAA 1304226 “Uncomfortable is good, stay there,” was the response I received from a flying mentor as he recognized I was at the very edge of my ... Read more

September 19, 2024September 19, 2024

Honesty at AirVenture

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Frank Hemko, EAA 569315 I’m 74 years old and have visited AirVenture six times since I retired. My 29-year career flying as captain on UPS B-727s, B-757s, and B-767s ... Read more

September 12, 2024September 12, 2024

A Pilot, a Passion, a Calling

Learning to Fly, Member Stories

By Sharon Puschmann, EAA 1382843 Pilots come in all shapes and sizes with different motivations, drives, and desires. Some are inspired by family members, military ambitions, or dreams of becoming ... Read more

September 5, 2024September 5, 2024

Don’t Let the Old Man In

Member Stories, Ultralights

By George Karamitis, EAA 144192 This piece originally ran in the July 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. The song “Don’t Let the Old Man In” by Toby Keith ... Read more

September 5, 2024September 5, 2024

The Importance of Service Bulletins

Member Stories

By Vic Syracuse, EAA Lifetime 180848 This piece originally ran in Vic’s Checkpoints column in the July 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. In May’s column I promised an ... Read more

September 5, 2024September 5, 2024

It Takes a Village (Or Two EAA Chapters) to Raise a Pilot

Chapters, Member Stories

By Gary Ludeke, EAA 199851 This is a story about an 18-year-old young man, Jakin Messer, EAA 1293775, who is very passionate about having a career as an airline pilot. He ... Read more

September 5, 2024September 5, 2024

From Wheels to Wings: A Young Eagle’s Story

Chapters, Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

By John Muhle, EAA 1360048, EAA Chapter 289 President It was Wings and Wheels in the summer of 2022, and a young man had made plans to attend the event ... Read more

September 3, 2024September 3, 2024

Fulfilling My Dream of Becoming a Pilot!

Bits and Pieces, Learning to Fly, Member Stories

By Tristan da Cunha Monday, July 17, 2023, is a day I vividly remember. The VFR flight conditions were textbook perfect. It was on this day that I flew my ... Read more

September 3, 2024September 3, 2024

Ruffled Feathers: Dad

Bits and Pieces, Member Stories

By John Wyman, EAA 462533, Chapter 266, Montreal My father, Bill Wyman, passed away a year ago this past August. He was 87. A year later, I am left with ... Read more

August 29, 2024August 29, 2024

Safe Flight … or Not!

Flying Tips, Member Stories

By Steve Krog, EAA 173799 This piece originally ran in Steve’s Classic Instructor column in the July 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. Would you consider yourself a safe, ... Read more

August 29, 2024August 29, 2024

EAA Air Academy 2024 From the Deuce Lucas Crew

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Ella Lucas, EAA 1518806, Chapter 76 This summer, Lucas Garcia and I were selected for the Cajun Aviation Camp Scholarship. Every year they choose one guy and one girl ... Read more

August 22, 2024August 22, 2024

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Missouri Glasair Sportsman

Homebuilding, Member Stories

By Keith Eisberg, EAA Lifetime 1136501 This piece originally ran in the July 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. My SkyRocket, a kitbuilt Glasair Sportsman, is my first kitbuilt ... Read more

August 22, 2024August 22, 2024

A Cloud of Confusion

Member Stories

By Robert N. Rossier, EAA 472091 This piece originally ran in Robert’s Stick and Rudder column in the July 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. It was years ago ... Read more

August 15, 2024August 15, 2024

Getting Help

Homebuilding, Member Stories

By Lisa Turner, EAA Lifetime 509911 This piece originally ran in Lisa’s Airworthy column in the July 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. “Now that you’re a pilot, you ... Read more

August 15, 2024August 15, 2024

The Debbie Franceus Memorial Aviation Foundation Presents 2024 Aviation Spirit Award

Member Stories

By Mike Franceus In front of a crowd of approximately 300 pilots, friends, and family members, The Debbie Franceus Memorial Aviation Foundation presented its 2024 Aviation Spirit Award to Larry ... Read more

August 8, 2024August 8, 2024

Oil in Strange Places

Member Stories, Ultralights

By Kenneth Florence, EAA 1509968 This piece originally ran in the June 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. In March 2024, I purchased a fine example of a Leonard ... Read more

August 8, 2024August 8, 2024

The Quest for More Light

Member Stories

By Vic Syracuse, EAA Lifetime 180848 This piece originally ran in Vic’s Checkpoints column in the June 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. When it comes to landing our ... Read more

August 8, 2024August 8, 2024

441 Supports Airport Open House

Chapters, Member Stories

By Ron Wanttaja, EAA 275698, Chapter 441 Newsletter Editor Like all airports, Dick Scobee Field in Auburn, Washington, depends on the goodwill of the people living in this small town ... Read more

August 8, 2024August 8, 2024

VerdeGo Aero Drives Hybrid Solutions

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Jim Roberts When most people think about electric aircraft, they think about batteries. But according to the folks at VerdeGo Aero, “Batteries are great at delivering power in short ... Read more

August 8, 2024August 8, 2024

Father and Son Duo Celebrate 30 Years at AirVenture

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Angela Satterlee Barry, EAA Lifetime 151119, and Erwin Jay, EAA 139663, were back for another year at AirVenture! 2024 officially marked the 30th anniversary of the duo attending Oshkosh ... Read more

August 1, 2024August 1, 2024

Canada Is Now Electrified

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Michael Martin, EAA 1047599 The concept of electric airplanes in Canada, particularly demonstrated by the Pipistrel Velis Electro at EAA AirVenture 2024, highlights an innovative shift in aviation. This ... Read more

August 1, 2024August 1, 2024

Fear Factor and Flying

Learning to Fly, Member Stories

By Steve Krog, EAA 173799 This piece originally ran in Steve’s Classic Instructor column in the June 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. I read a statement the other ... Read more

July 31, 2024July 31, 2024

Stanhope Fly-In: Ontario Cottage Country

Bits and Pieces, Member Stories

By Ian Brown, EAA 657159, Bits and Pieces, member of EAA Canadian Council I was fortunate enough to catch a ride from Orillia-Rama Regional Airport (CNJ4) in an amphib when ... Read more

July 31, 2024July 31, 2024

The Art of Aviation

Bits and Pieces, Member Stories

By Michael Martin, EAA 1047599 Art is a truly subjective topic that can completely elude some, while simultaneously embraced by others. Great art is highly abstract, possessing mythical powers. Through ... Read more

July 31, 2024July 31, 2024

Campbell River, BC Fly-In

Bits and Pieces, Member Stories

By Mike Davenport, EAA 89102, Langley, BC A trip to the Campbell River, British Columbia, annual fly-in on Sunday, July 14, displayed many exceptional aircraft for visitor’s scrutiny. Greg Booker ... Read more

July 27, 2024July 27, 2024

Nonstop Across the Atlantic

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Andrea Venturini A nonstop Atlantic crossing, from Scotland to Canada, a trip that typically can only be done via airliner, was achieved on June 14, 2024, in a two-seat, ... Read more

July 27, 2024July 27, 2024

‘Hooray, Hungary!’

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Angela Satterlee Twenty-two Hungarian aviation enthusiasts were welcomed to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, their last stop on a week-and-a-half-long trip around the world. The trip began on Wednesday, July 17, ... Read more

July 27, 2024July 27, 2024

Able Flight Gains Nine New Light-Sport Pilots

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Barbara A. Schmitz Able Flight awarded its greatest number of flight training scholarships in a year to people with a disability in 2024, and nine of those 10 scholarship ... Read more

July 27, 2024July 28, 2024

Saudi Pilot Stops in Oshkosh

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Barbara A. Schmitz Mishaal AlSudairy is flying around the world, but he made sure that one of his stops was at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. Flying a Diamond 42, Mishaal ... Read more

July 27, 2024July 27, 2024

Making Dreams Come True One New Year’s Resolution at a Time

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Angela Satterlee Flying from his home in Aberdeen, Scotland, to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh for the first time in his Bristell NG5 was the longest trip Bill Miazek, EAA 1601589, ... Read more

July 27, 2024July 27, 2024

Ballet and Airplanes, Grace and Discipline

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Robbie Culver Ballet, airplanes, grace, discipline. For Mary Elizabeth Kurek, EAA 1333410 and current Ray Aviation scholar for EAA Chapter 461 in Bolingbrook, Illinois, these ideas fit well together. ... Read more

July 27, 2024July 27, 2024

Alina Scott, 15, Returns to EAA AirVenture

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Abigail Oleniczak Alina Scott is a 15-year-old who is chasing her dreams with hopes to inspire other youths. After flying into EAA AirVenture Oshkosh solo in 2023, she returned ... Read more

July 27, 2024July 27, 2024

Teen Brothers Fly Into Oshkosh

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Barbara A. Schmitz The saying may be “A family that prays together stays together.” But for the Smith family, it’s a family that flies together. After getting stuck in ... Read more

July 26, 2024July 26, 2024

WomenVenture

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Barbara A. Schmitz The secret to being successful is showing up 99 percent of the time, said Nicole Battjes, CEO of Rainbow Helicopters and keynote speaker at Wednesday’s WomenVenture’s ... Read more

July 26, 2024July 26, 2024

The Sound of Freedom

AirVenture, Member Stories, Warbirds

By Jim Roberts It’s not every day you get to see and hear an aircraft engine that helped win World War II. Thanks to four dedicated volunteers, a 12-cylinder liquid-cooled ... Read more

July 26, 2024July 26, 2024

German Pilot and Author Revisits AirVenture

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Barbara A. Schmitz Kathrin Kaiser isn’t sure why she loves flying. But growing up in East Germany with its barbed wire and secret police, she felt like she was ... Read more

July 26, 2024July 26, 2024

Pretty (and Strong) in Pink

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Angela Satterlee The pink airplane that can be spotted from around the grounds is the first of its kind, making its world debut at AirVenture 2024. With a fresh ... Read more

July 26, 2024July 26, 2024

The First of Many AirVentures

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Angela Satterlee Julio Julia, a Puerto Rican native, flew his 2021 SeaRey Elite (N287PY) across the country from Florida to Oshkosh, which is believed to be the longest seaplane ... Read more

July 26, 2024July 26, 2024

What Makes a Family

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Emme Hornung When Len Perry decided to learn to fly at 35 years old, his wife, Helena, figured it was a midlife crisis. But it was never a phase ... Read more

July 26, 2024July 26, 2024

One Pilot’s Journey to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Robbie Culver Like many of you reading these words, I have been to Oshkosh often. It’s my annual summer aviation addiction — I see it’s yours, too. For those ... Read more

July 25, 2024July 25, 2024

Young Oshkosh Camper Rides the Red Tram Despite Emergency Surgery

AirVenture, Member Stories

If anybody needs more excitement at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024, ask one determined Illinois youngster who will be on the flightline this week. She not only survived a medical emergency ... Read more

July 25, 2024July 25, 2024

Tribute to a Hero

AirVenture, Honoring The Past, Member Stories

By Barbara A. Schmitz Hundreds gathered around Old Crow Tuesday to learn about the man who once flew the P-51 and pay tribute to one of America’s greatest heroes, even ... Read more

July 25, 2024July 25, 2024

Remembering Dick Rutan

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Barbara A. Schmitz Warrior. Adventurer. Patriot. Those words on the memorial stone for Dick Rutan, who died in May, sum up Dick’s life. But his brother Burt and other friends ... Read more

July 25, 2024August 21, 2024

Rock Your Wings!

AirVenture, Member Stories

To a pilot, the words “rock your wings” are almost sacred. They mean we are approaching the small town of Fisk, Wisconsin, on the approach to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh and ... Read more

July 25, 2024July 25, 2024

Aeronca Nation

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Jim Roberts From the day the Aeronautical Corporation of America set up shop in 1928 at Lunken Airport in Cincinnati, until it closed the doors in 1951 in Middletown, ... Read more

July 24, 2024July 24, 2024

Cox Advocates for Disabilities While Encouraging Fearlessness, Adaptability

AirVenture, Learning to Fly, Member Stories

By Barbara A. Schmitz To say Jessica Cox, of Tucson, Arizonia, has a can-do attitude is a massive understatement. She was born without arms and learned to do things with ... Read more

July 24, 2024July 25, 2024

From Adversity to Purpose

AirVenture, Member Stories, Warbirds

Last summer, Paul Barnett nearly lost his right leg. A little more than a year later, he’s helping folks climb up into the cockpit of the Corsair he flew in ... Read more

July 24, 2024July 24, 2024

You’d Be ‘Plum Crazy’ Not to Fall in Love With Benzing’s P-51

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Barbara A. Schmitz Vicky Benzing wanted to fly a P-51 so bad that she took the training course to get qualified in the Mustang in hopes that someone would ... Read more

July 23, 2024July 23, 2024

Kaleidoscope Airplane Aims to Make Flying Fun

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Barbara A. Schmitz Liam Hawkins, of St. Petersburg, Florida, was so afraid of flying that he had to take more than 1,000 commercial flights before he could get over ... Read more

July 23, 2024July 23, 2024

From Massachusetts to Oshkosh

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Angela Satterlee You could call it a gyro-dynamic experience, but for Sue Benua, EAA Lifetime 1262570, it was an unforgettable trip. Sue arrived Thursday in Oshkosh after a weather ... Read more

July 23, 2024July 23, 2024

Flying in the Air Race Classic and Then to Oshkosh — What a Summer!

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Robbie Culver Pilots are a particular bunch. We are our own worst critics, overanalyze every flight we make, and are constantly striving for perfection. I’m still waiting to make ... Read more

July 22, 2024July 22, 2024

EAA’s Volunteers of the Year

AirVenture, Member Stories, Volunteers

By Angela Satterlee Dennis Lange, EAA 198454, is from Fond du Lac, and he started volunteering at EAA back in 1979, became a member shortly after that in 1981, and ... Read more

July 22, 2024July 22, 2024

Two-Thirds Scale TTP38 Volar’s Lightning

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Robbie Culver EAA’s AirVenture Oshkosh is a showcase for aircraft that are not found anywhere else. This year, an example of that is Jim and Mitzi O’Hara’s TTP38 Volar’s ... Read more

July 22, 2024July 22, 2024

EAA Member Helps Preserve History at National Air and Space Museum

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Robbie Culver Have you ever wondered what it is like to work with some of our nation’s most precious and unique aviation artifacts? Imagine what it is like to ... Read more

July 22, 2024July 22, 2024

It Was All an Adventure!

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Robbie Culver Part of the allure of aviation is getting out of your comfort zone, embracing the adventure of every flight, and expanding your knowledge — the operative phrase ... Read more

July 21, 2024July 22, 2024

Linda Thorn — EAA’s 2024 Dorothy Hilbert Award Winner

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Angela Satterlee Linda Thorn is the winner of this year’s Dorothy Hilbert Award, which honors a female volunteer who exhibits the same passion, dedication, and devotion for volunteerism as ... Read more

July 21, 2024July 21, 2024

Distinct ‘Recall’ Stearman Comes to Oshkosh

AirVenture, Member Stories, Warbirds

Story and photography by Robbie Culver Flying to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is a rite of passage for pilots. Months of planning, sacrifices for good weather, and no small amount of ... Read more

July 17, 2024July 17, 2024

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — California Cessna 182

Member Stories

By Michael Haney, EAA Lifetime 1133354 This piece originally ran in the June 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. The story begins June 2021 in Mojave, California. I bought ... Read more

July 17, 2024July 17, 2024

Low and Slow

Member Stories

By Robert N. Rossier, EAA 472091 This piece originally ran in Robert’s Stick and Rudder column in the June 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. Last fall, my wife ... Read more

July 3, 2024July 3, 2024

The Thinker

Member Stories, Ultralights

By George Karamitis, EAA 144192 This piece originally ran in the May 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. Every once in a while, someone will ask me, “George, when are ... Read more

July 3, 2024July 3, 2024

Maintenance for Reliability

Homebuilding, Member Stories

By Vic Syracuse, EAA Lifetime 180848 This piece originally ran in Vic’s Checkpoints column in the May 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. At the end of the Part 1 ... Read more

June 26, 2024June 26, 2024

Florida EAA Chapter 203 and AOPA Members Support GA Specialty License Plate

Member Stories

A Support General Aviation license plate will soon be available for purchase in Florida because of the passionate efforts of three aviators with the support of their local EAA chapter ... Read more

June 26, 2024June 26, 2024

Turbulence and Triumph: Lessons Learned About Flying (and Life)

Member Stories

As pilots, each flight teaches us something new — about aviation, about the world, and about ourselves. I’ve been flying for two years, but in that time, I’ve experienced moments ... Read more

June 26, 2024June 26, 2024

Attitude Flying

Learning to Fly, Member Stories

By Steve Krog, EAA 173799 This piece originally ran in Steve’s Classic Instructor column in the May 2024 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine. Last week we began working with ... Read more

June 24, 2024July 2, 2024

My Journey to Becoming a Pilot

Learning to Fly, Member Stories

By Isabella Downton, Northern Manitoba My student pilot journey did not begin with a discovery flight, it began when I was five years old. My family co-owned a floatplane charter ... Read more

June 20, 2024

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Oklahoma Carbon Cub EX-3

Homebuilding, Member Stories

In a recent piece for EAA Sport Aviation, EAA member Dave Embry takes us through the build, particularly the painting process, of his stunning Carbon Cub.

June 19, 2024

Rob Holland AeroSports and the Blue Angels

Aerobatics, Member Stories

Kelley and Todd Whitaker, EAA 1571782 and 1571783, had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to photograph two solo U.S. Navy Blue Angels and aerobatic pilot Rob Holland over Vero Beach, Florida, in ... Read more

June 13, 2024

Navigating the Skies of Doubt: A South African Pilot’s Journey

Learning to Fly, Member Stories

To all aspiring pilots out there, remember: the journey may be long and arduous, but the view from the cockpit makes it all worthwhile. Keep your eyes on the horizon ... Read more

June 11, 2024June 11, 2024

Volunteer Spotlight — Don and Shay Lusk

Member Stories, Volunteers

Don and Shay Lusk, EAA 1475013 and 1495171, of EAA Chapter 586 in Show Low, Arizona, have a passion for sharing the wonders aviation has to offer with people of ... Read more

June 5, 2024June 5, 2024

EAA’s Unknown Alumnus

Homebuilding, Member Stories

The interesting and little-known story of the man who started construction on the first homebuilt Pitts Special.

May 30, 2024

A Weekend of Midwest Flying

Chapters, Member Stories

As warmer weather settles in throughout the Midwest, EAA chapter and flying activities ramp up. On Saturday, May 18, and Sunday, May 19, Bruce Jacobsen, EAA 1060967, of Rockford, Illinois, ... Read more

May 23, 2024May 30, 2024

The Fairchild Time Machine

Member Stories

A chance encounter at Oshkosh prompted Aaron Dabney to dig a little deeper into his family history, and he found himself a little closer to his WWII fighter pilot grandfather. ... Read more

May 22, 2024May 22, 2024

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Minnesota Glasair IIRG

Homebuilding, Member Stories

In a recent piece for EAA Sport Aviation, EAA member Russell Cunningham takes us through the build of his pristine Glasair IIRG.

May 21, 2024

EAA Chapter 931 Member Flies With Wisconsin Air National Guard

Chapters, Member Stories

One EAA Chapter 931 member recently had the rare opportunity to fly aboard a KC-135 Stratotanker.

May 15, 2024

Planting the Aviation Seed

Member Stories

Millions of young people have experienced flight through EAA’s Young Eagles program, including Dusty Hanks, EAA 1140580, who is now a first officer for Delta Air Lines. He recently reunited ... Read more

May 6, 2024May 21, 2024

Life as an African International Student Pilot in Canada

Bits and Pieces, Member Stories

Uganda native Cornelius Kalyango shares his experience living in Canada as a student pilot.

April 18, 2024April 18, 2024

How I Became a Motor-Head

Member Stories, Stories Of Oshkosh, Ultralights

Larry Fleming, an experienced hang glider pilot, steps into the world of powered flight with his Aeros Nano Trike. Follow along his adventure of learning to fly the ultralight trike ... Read more

April 15, 2024April 16, 2024

Chapter Leader Recognition: Lauren Labs

Chapters, Member Stories

When Lauren Labs became the scholarship coordinator for EAA Chapter 931, she went above and beyond in her efforts to help her chapter’s Ray scholar and future youth members.

March 28, 2024April 3, 2024

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — California Van’s Aircraft RV-14

Homebuilding, Member Stories

In a recent piece for EAA Sport Aviation, EAA member and Navy veteran Ken Taylor talks about the four-year build of his RV-14.

March 28, 2024

The Leading Edge: Finding LSA ‘Unobtanium’

Homebuilding, Member Stories, Ultralights

That sleek demo bird at Oshkosh led to the discovery of a whole new up-and-coming breed of high-performance aircraft emerging in Europe spurred on by maturing technologies. I believe this ... Read more

March 21, 2024March 21, 2024

Eli’s 30 Shares

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

Pat Halligan, EAA 363158, shares the story of his grandson’s kind and remarkable gesture.

March 14, 2024March 14, 2024

An Aviatrix’s Legacy — Joan Trefethen Alford

Member Stories

Joan Trefethen Alford, EAA 1019, was a trailblazing aviator – she was the first woman to build and test fly a homebuilt aircraft, and the first woman to fly in ... Read more

March 5, 2024

Werner Griesbeck Obituary

Member Stories

Most Canadians work quietly at their jobs, not requesting or expecting acknowledgement of any kind. However, there are those who must be recognised as their efforts far exceed the norm, ... Read more

February 29, 2024February 29, 2024

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Missouri Wittman W-10 Tailwind

Homebuilding, Member Stories

In a recent piece for EAA Sport Aviation, EAA member Michael D. Wilson takes us through the three-decade build of his W-10 Tailwind.

February 22, 2024

ORD Airport Watch

Member Stories

Come behind the scenes at O’Hare International Airport and discover how planespotting inspires The Spirit of Aviation in the “avgeeks” of the ORD Airport Watch, a nonprofit group dedicated to ... Read more

February 15, 2024February 15, 2024

My Dream of Flying

Member Stories

One EAA member shares her inspiring path from sleeping on the streets to flying high in the sky in her homebuilt Midget Mustang.

February 14, 2024February 15, 2024

Galesburg

Member Stories, Vintage

In a recent column for EAA Sport Aviation, contributor Vic Syracuse talks about his favorite event of the year — the National Stearman Fly-In.

February 7, 2024April 26, 2024

Becoming Corie

Member Stories

One EAA member chronicles her unique path to aviation – a story of overcoming a lifelong illness and receiving her medical certificate, and how an internet scammer unknowingly inspired it ... Read more

January 25, 2024March 29, 2024

Volunteer Spotlight — Cliff Chetwin

Member Stories, Volunteers

Cliff Chetwin, EAA Lifetime 429238, is a retired aviation program manager for the National Park Service and continues to educate others and spread The Spirit of Aviation through volunteerism.

January 25, 2024

A Challenge for Chapters

Member Stories

My grandpa introduced his family to EAA Chapter 377 because of his passion for aviation. With that, he brought another three generations into the fold! If one man who was ... Read more

January 18, 2024January 18, 2024

“Beating It” to Oshkosh

Member Stories

In a recent column for EAA Sport Aviation, contributor Vic Syracuse discusses his trip to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2023 in his Hummingbird helicopter.

January 4, 2024

Sparking Dreams

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

EAA member Seunghee Kang recently experienced the rewards of participating in the Young Eagles program.

January 4, 2024January 10, 2024

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Alabama Fly Baby

Homebuilding, Member Stories

In a recent piece for EAA Sport Aviation, EAA member Greg McCormick takes us through the lengthy build of his Fly Baby.

December 14, 2023December 18, 2023

No Need for Speed: The Gordon Bennett Cup

Member Stories

Noah Forden, EAA 539700, and Brenda Cowlishaw spent almost three days in the gas balloon Intrepid, traveling 1,382 miles over the southern United States as part of the world’s oldest ... Read more

December 7, 2023

Airplanes Have Two P-Factors

Member Stories

In this excerpt from his popular blog, Thinking Out Loud, EAA columnist and contributor Budd Davisson candidly reflects on a rare flight where he almost couldn’t wait to get back ... Read more

November 30, 2023November 30, 2023

Reflections of a Tri-Motor Stewardess (Or Should I Say, Hostess)

Member Stories

100-year-old Ruth Hunter considered the Tri-Motor her home at one point, having been a stewardess on the Tri-Motor in the early ‘50s, and getting to fly in EAA’s Ford Tri-Motor ... Read more

November 21, 2023November 22, 2023

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Washington Just Aircraft Highlander

Homebuilding, Member Stories

In a recent piece for EAA Sport Aviation, EAA member Steve Cameron takes us through the build of his Just Aircraft Highlander.

November 16, 2023November 16, 2023

One Last Ride…

Member Stories

So, with many hands, Dad was in the cockpit again, for one last ride. I sat in the back seat, Dad in the front right, with Greg as PIC. We ... Read more

November 9, 2023November 9, 2023

The Love Triangle — A Fear of Repeating the History of the Ford Tri-Motor

Member Stories, Warbirds

The Ford Tri-Motor, as the first luxury airliner, transformed global travel, heralding the era of commercial flight. Today, as I dream of piloting cutting-edge aircraft across continents, I owe a ... Read more

October 26, 2023October 26, 2023

EAA Chapter 485 Celebrates Two Master Pilots

Member Stories

Two EAA members recently received the FAA Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award at their EAA Chapter 485 monthly meeting.

October 26, 2023October 30, 2023

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Arkansas Cessna 170B

Member Stories, Vintage

In a recent piece for EAA Sport Aviation, EAA member Paul J. Davis takes us through the restoration of his 1956 Cessna 170B.

October 18, 2023

Aviation Scholarship Opportunity Presented By EAA Warbirds Squadron 18

Member Stories, Warbirds

Addison M. Maloney of Union Township, Ohio, has received a full scholarship opportunity for flight training, thanks to EAA Warbirds Squadron 18 of Cincinnati, Ohio, and the Ray Aviation Scholarship ... Read more

September 28, 2023October 4, 2023

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — New Hampshire Van’s Aircraft RV-7

Homebuilding, Member Stories

EAA member Dave Setser takes us through the lengthy build process for his immaculate Van’s RV-7.

September 20, 2023September 21, 2023

I Jumped Out of a “Perfectly Good Airplane,” and Here’s How It Went

Member Stories

Whether it’s a bucket list item or your biggest fear, I think everyone should consider taking the leap. Something inside you will change. There’s just something about falling 10,000 feet ... Read more

September 20, 2023

Celebrating Dreams and Giving Back: EAA Young Eagles

Member Stories

Without EAA’s generosity, I know I would not be where I am now. I am honored to now be able to give back to EAA by supporting programs like Young ... Read more

August 22, 2023August 23, 2023

Echoes in the Sky — A Return to People, Puppies, and Planes

AirVenture, Member Stories

AirVenture Oshkosh, a pilgrimage for aviation aficionados, beckons like a cherished family reunion.

August 16, 2023

Commercial Pilot Certificate

Member Stories

That one sentence my instructor told me has stuck with me and motivated me throughout my training and boosted my confidence as a pilot. “She’s a pilot.” Yes, I am ... Read more

August 10, 2023

Longtime EAA Member Presented with Master Pilot Award

Member Stories

William Arthur Hasenfus, EAA 98556, was awarded the FAA’s Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award in a surprise ceremony at the Appleton International Airport in Appleton, Wisconsin, on January 17, 2023. ... Read more

August 3, 2023August 8, 2023

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Ontario Van’s Aircraft RV-4

Homebuilding, Member Stories

In a recent issue of EAA Sport Aviation, EAA member Wayne Roberts takes us through the build of his Van’s RV-4.

July 26, 2023August 10, 2023

From Viral to Rhino

Member Stories

Fourteen years ago, as a recent high school graduate, Wes Perkins, EAA 857219, attended EAA AirVenture Oshkosh and put together a video for his YouTube channel.

July 24, 2023August 23, 2023

Low and Slow Around the Lower 48

AirVenture, Member Stories

“Right now, I’m so tired of flying. It’s so great to be here on the ground … and I know by the time the whole convention’s over, I’ll be just ... Read more

July 23, 2023August 8, 2023

A BushCat Built by Jewelry

Member Stories

Rachel credits one of EAA’s One Week Wonder projects as an inspiration. As a young girl, she saw how quickly an entire airplane could be built, and knowing she would ... Read more

July 18, 2023

Checkride Milestone — Andrew Schermerhorn

Member Stories, Milestones

Congratulations to Andrew Schermerhorn, EAA 1467594, former membership intern with EAA, as he recently earned his private pilot certificate!

June 29, 2023July 5, 2023

Twin Brothers Become Pilots: Young Eagles Gabriel and Gavin Attain Their Certificate Together

Member Stories

Twin brothers and Young Eagles Gavin and Gabriel Miner, 17 years old, have become certificated pilots after recently passing their checkrides!

June 29, 2023

Perspective to Legacy: Navigating a Dream in the Sky

Member Stories

I take off from Burlington, Vermont’s largest airport (KBTV) on a sunny, windy day in June for my discovery flight. I look out the window of the Cessna 172 and ... Read more

June 29, 2023

Commercial Training and Cross-Countries

Learning to Fly, Member Stories

The past month I have been working on building hours and gaining proficiency for my commercial pilot certificate.

June 8, 2023June 8, 2023

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Mississippi Van’s Aircraft RV-10

Member Stories

In a recent issue of EAA Sport Aviation, EAA member Jeff Justis takes us through the build of his Van’s RV-10.

May 25, 2023May 25, 2023

Fundamentally Fun

Member Stories, Ultralights

In a recent column for EAA Sport Aviation, EAA vice president Rick Larsen looks back at his Quicksilver days.

May 25, 2023May 25, 2023

Wheels On the Ground in Texas, Wings in the Air Everywhere Else

Member Stories

Dave Tillema, EAA 465598, drives a school bus for fun. He also flies a Zenith CH 750 Cruzer, and two students that ride his bus recently wrote a story about ... Read more

May 18, 2023May 25, 2023

Master Pilots — Honoring Ken and Jack

Member Stories

On May 2, 2023, members of Chapter 677 in Columbus, Georgia, came together to recognize two of their longtime members, Kenneth Sines, EAA 453045, and Jack Phillabaum, EAA 555580. They ... Read more

May 4, 2023May 4, 2023

Full STEAM Ahead!

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

The Patuxent River Naval Air Museum outside the Navy base at Patuxent River, Maryland held their annual STEAM (Science Technology Engineering Arts and Math) event on March 11, 2023.

May 1, 2023May 1, 2023

Ruffled Feathers: Soaring Costs

Member Stories

Bits and Pieces contributor John Wyman takes a look at the rising prices for different aircraft parts, from engines to avionics.

May 1, 2023May 8, 2023

The Electroluminescent Performer Electrifies

Member Stories

Occasionally, a genuinely new and fresh talent shows up on the air show circuit that sparks the imaginations of the audience. This is the case with Canadian air show pilot ... Read more

May 1, 2023

Connections: No matter how tenuous

Member Stories

When someone becomes famous and well known, it is in our nature to try and relate to that person in any way we can. We look for similarities and connections ... Read more

May 1, 2023

Made in the Shade

DIY, Homebuilding, Member Stories

How EAA member Bruce Spears used a DIY approach to cool the back seat of his Cessna 182.

April 26, 2023April 26, 2023

Making Time for the Stories

Member Stories

In a recent column for EAA Sport Aviation, contributor Vic Syracuse revisits some of the different people he’s met and the stories he’s heard through his involvement in aviation.

April 20, 2023April 20, 2023

A Spring Clam Jam at Polly Creek

Member Stories

EAA members Patty and Andy Smith recently flew to a popular location in Alaska to go clamming.

April 13, 2023April 17, 2023

Shining the Spotlight on Weather

Member Stories

EAA Lifetime member Tre’ Landrum teaches some of the ins and outs of weather to a group of homeschooled students.

April 12, 2023April 17, 2023

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Michigan Van’s Aircraft RV-8

Homebuilding, Member Stories

In a recent issue of EAA Sport Aviation, EAA Lifetime member Martin J. Filiatrault takes us through the build of his RV-8.

April 6, 2023

My First Solo

Learning to Fly, Member Stories

EAA member Alin Gruia takes a trip down memory lane to revisit his first solo 12 years ago.

April 5, 2023

FAA Flight Test With Only One Eye

Member Stories

How one EAA member regained his private pilot certificate after losing an eye.

April 4, 2023April 4, 2023

Flying the Skyline Tour

Bits and Pieces, Member Stories

A unique vantage point of North America’s most impressive city skyline.

March 30, 2023March 30, 2023

Progressing Through Instrument Training

Learning to Fly, Member Stories

United Aviate Academy student Natalie Miles gives an update on her training to become an airline pilot.

March 15, 2023March 20, 2023

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Florida Pitts S-1S

Homebuilding, Member Stories

In a recent issue of EAA Sport Aviation, EAA member Jeremy Wicker take us through the lengthy build of his Pitts S-1S.

March 8, 2023March 13, 2023

My Checkride

Learning to Fly, Member Stories

After rigorous training, late nights, early mornings, and lots of support, I have officially earned the title of private pilot. Words cannot describe how happy and grateful I am for ... Read more

March 3, 2023

Masks, Masks, and More Masks

Member Stories

EAA member Mike Davenport details a cross-border mask airlift in the Pacific Northwest.

March 3, 2023

Idaho and the Frank – Expectation and the Reality

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Expectations were high as Rick and I headed out for a bucket list trip to Idaho that had been delayed two years by travel restrictions. After studying guidebooks, watching videos, ... Read more

February 16, 2023February 16, 2023

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Michigan Zenith Aircraft CH 750 Cruzer

Homebuilding, Member Stories

In a recent issue of EAA Sport Aviation, EAA member Phil Cook takes us through the build of his Zenith CH 750 Cruzer

February 9, 2023February 9, 2023

Orin Welch and the China National Aviation Corporation

History, Member Stories

EAA member Brandon Ross Abel remembers his great-uncle — an aircraft designer and cargo pilot who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War II.

February 8, 2023February 9, 2023

My First Solo

Celebrating Women, Member Stories

Natalie Miles, EAA 1478672, provides another update on her journey through United Airlines’ Aviate Academy.

February 2, 2023

Hand-Flying for 900 Miles

Member Stories

Mark Stanfield, EAA 1499607, shares the story of the time he went a long way in a little airplane, ferrying a rare Mooney M10 Cadet from Wisconsin to New York. ... Read more

February 2, 2023February 6, 2023

Alaska — Returning Home

Member Stories, Why We Fly

In a recent column for EAA Sport Aviation, contributor Vic Syracuse discusses his return flight home from Alaska.

February 2, 2023February 2, 2023

Rare P-47 Restoration Nearly Complete

Member Stories

A rare razorback P-47D, owned by the Dakota Territory Air Museum in Minot, North Dakota, is restored and nearly ready to fly for the first time since 1944. Fingers crossed ... Read more

January 25, 2023January 25, 2023

The Long and Winding Runway

Member Stories

Thirty-five years after beginning his initial pilot training, Paul Maloy’s journey to his certificate finally reached a successful conclusion, but not without some bumps in the road.

January 17, 2023January 18, 2023

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Wisconsin Van’s Aircraft RV-8

Homebuilding, Member Stories

In a recent issue of EAA Sport Aviation, EAA member William P. Hale discusses the build of his Van’s RV-8, Metal Mistress.

January 12, 2023January 12, 2023

Aerial Applicator Featured in Museum Speaker Series

EAA Museum, Member Stories

Damon Reabe, a third-generation aerial applicator, will speak about The Art of Crop Dusting on Thursday, January 19, at 7 p.m. as part of the EAA Aviation Museum Aviation Adventure ... Read more

January 11, 2023

A Unique J-3 Cub

Bits and Pieces, Member Stories

Not your average antique aircraft, this one has been in regular use for 84 years — 57 of those with the current owner’s family.

January 11, 2023

Working Down the Bucket List

Bits and Pieces, Member Stories

Floats gently tickling glassy water on my first solo floatplane landing — the very definition of
accomplishment and satisfaction!

January 11, 2023January 11, 2023

Ruffled Feathers: Have Airplane, Will Travel — the Joy and Challenge of Cross-country Flying

Bits and Pieces, Member Stories

Bits and Pieces contributor John Wyman discusses cross-country flying and shares some stories from over the years.

January 5, 2023January 6, 2023

Flying in Alaska

Member Stories, Why We Fly

In a recent column for EAA Sport Aviation, contributor Vic Syracuse discusses his flying excursions in Alaska.

December 7, 2022December 12, 2022

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Texas Fairchild PT-19

Homebuilding, Member Stories

In a recent column for EAA Sport Aviation, EAA member Richard Smith takes us through the restoration of his PT-19.

November 22, 2022November 29, 2022

Flying to Alaska

Member Stories, Why We Fly

In a recent column for EAA Sport Aviation, contributor Vic Syracuse discusses his long flight north to Alaska.

November 8, 2022November 10, 2022

A Young Eagle and an Aging Hawk

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

With a little bit of scheming, I was able to arrange for my grandson to take his Young Eagles flight in an airplane that I had a strong personal connection ... Read more

November 8, 2022

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Nevada Aeronca 7AC Champ

Member Stories

In a recent issue of EAA Sport Aviation, EAA member Brandon Abel takes us through the restoration of his Aeronca Champ.

October 27, 2022October 28, 2022

A Fondness for the Ford

Member Stories, Vintage

The Ford Tri-Motor made a visit to central Indiana and left an impression on all who had the chance to fly it.

October 20, 2022October 20, 2022

Following Her Dreams

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

Natalie Miles, EAA 1478672, is currently pursuing her aviation aspirations at the United Aviate Academy. She will be updating her progress on a regular basis as a scholarship student in ... Read more

October 19, 2022October 20, 2022

Before Oshkosh, Before AirVenture

History, Member Stories

EAA member John Meyers looks back on a grand adventure from his teenage years when he attended the annual EAA fly-in convention in Rockford, Illinois.

October 18, 2022October 20, 2022

Sharing the Joy

Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth & Young Eagles

In a recent column for EAA Sport Aviation, contributor Vic Syracuse discusses one of his passions in life: sharing the experience of flying with his family.

October 11, 2022October 13, 2022

Looking Down on a Rainbow

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Rose Rivera, the pen name of an EAA member and Ray Scholarship recipient who lives in Florida and is currently working on her instrument rating, shared this story that is ... Read more

October 6, 2022October 10, 2022

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Illinois Piper PA-20 Pacer

DIY, Member Stories, Vintage

In a recent issue of EAA Sport Aviation, EAA member Mike Crosta takes us through the restoration of his PA-20 Pacer.

September 29, 2022September 29, 2022

Walt’s Gulfstream

Honoring The Past, Member Stories

The story of Walt Disney’s legendary Grumman Gulfstream and how it helped to shape the growth and expansion of The Walt Disney Company in the 1960s.

September 7, 2022December 7, 2022

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Ohio Piper PA-24 180 Comanche

Member Stories, Vintage

In a recent issue of EAA Sport Aviation, EAA member Karl Aber takes us through the restoration of his beloved Piper Comanche.

August 17, 2022August 17, 2022

My First Oshkosh

AirVenture, Member Stories

For Balaji Sivasubramanian, EAA 1461827, a pilot and RV builder who works as an engineer at Garmin, his first trip to Oshkosh for AirVenture was better than he’d ever imagined. ... Read more

August 16, 2022

Reflections

Honoring The Past, Learning to Fly, Member Stories

In a recent column for EAA Sport Aviation, contributor Steve Krog discusses some of the lessons he’s learned over his many years flying.

August 10, 2022August 10, 2022

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Colorado GSport

Homebuilding, Member Stories

In a recent issue of EAA Sport Aviation, EAA member Gary Leake takes us through the design and construction of his scratchbuilt GSport.

July 27, 2022

Unbroken Chain

AirVenture, Member Stories

The third-place winner in EAA’s Pilot Your Own Adventure Contest, supported by Flight Outfitters

July 26, 2022August 10, 2022

Cub 45H — My Family’s Legacy

Member Stories

The fourth-place winner in EAA’s Pilot Your Own Adventure Contest, supported by Flight Outfitters

July 25, 2022July 25, 2022

The Little Auster

Member Stories

The fifth-place winner in EAA’s Pilot Your Own Adventure Contest, supported by Flight Outfitters.

July 24, 2022July 24, 2022

Oh, the Places You Will Go … in STEM!

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

Twenty years after my first flight, I can see how the Young Eagles program opened doors for me both personally and professionally in STEM.

July 22, 2022July 24, 2022

Dave Jackson’s Volunteer Project

AirVenture, DIY, Honoring The Past, Member Stories, Stories Of Oshkosh

Dave makes about 200 of these chocks a year, each designed with a variety of items like names, years, and fun decals. Much to Dave’s chagrin, many pilots like to ... Read more

July 7, 2022July 7, 2022

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Oregon Sonex Aircraft Waiex-B

From The Hangar Floor, Homebuilding, Member Stories

In a recent issue of EAA Sport Aviation, EAA member Ron Heberlein takes us through the build of his Sonex Waiex-B.

June 29, 2022June 29, 2022

Air Academy to Airline Captain

Member Stories

Mathew Schaub and his journey from EAA’s aviation summer camp to Delta Air Lines.

June 27, 2022

Volunteer Spotlight — Tim and Sherry Niederkorn

Member Stories

Tim, EAA Lifetime 1249996, and Sherry Niederkorn, EAA 1277308, have been volunteering for many years with EAA, primarily with EAA Chapter 5 in Middlefield, Ohio, as well as EAA Chapter ... Read more

June 24, 2022

Prolific Builders — Pierre Marcotte

Member Stories

My interest in aviation and all things connected to it, began at a young age. During WWII, my dad was a machinist at Canada Car in Montreal when they had ... Read more

June 20, 2022June 20, 2022

Magic on Mount Tobe – Plymouth, Connecticut (N41)

Member Stories

One EAA member’s airplane camping escape from reality.

June 7, 2022June 13, 2022

A Different Angle

Flying Tips, Member Stories

In a recent column for EAA Sport Aviation, contributor Robert N. Rossier discusses tips for a safe approach in challenging conditions.

June 6, 2022

Dick Roe Remembered

Bits and Pieces, Member Stories

Some thoughts and memories about Canadian EAA member Dick Roe.

June 6, 2022June 6, 2022

Airplane Camping — I Liked It!

Bits and Pieces, Member Stories

EAA Canadian Council member Scott Knowlton takes his Aircamper for a camping trip.

June 2, 2022June 20, 2022

Checkride Milestone — Luke Vaughn

Chapters, Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

Congratulations to EAA Chapter 179 Ray scholar Luke Vaughn, who recently earned his private pilot certificate.

May 12, 2022June 20, 2022

A Young Eagle at the Air Force Academy

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

After my Young Eagles flight, I fell in love with aviation. Now I’m about to graduate from the U.S. Air Force Academy and start pilot training.

April 29, 2022

My Swap: 210 for a Wilga

Bits and Pieces, Member Stories

EAA member Dennis Weatherald tells the story of his eventful first flight in his PZL Wilga.

April 27, 2022April 28, 2022

Volunteer Spotlight — Lee and Paula Crevier

Member Stories, Ultralights

Lee, EAA 355459, and Paula Crevier, EAA 477989, began volunteering with EAA in 1991 and have helped out in a variety of areas, including Pioneer Airport, the Ultralights area, convention ... Read more

April 15, 2022April 18, 2022

Honoring a Longtime Young Eagles Pilot

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

Jesse Bell, EAA 91428, of Roopville, Georgia, is a perfect example of what the EAA Young Eagles program is about. Jesse and his late wife, Doris, started volunteering with their ... Read more

April 14, 2022April 14, 2022

Land, Air, and Sea by Motorcycle

DIY, Homebuilding, Member Stories, Why We Fly

EAA member Jaime Bonet’s journey to creating a unique three-purpose motorcycle.

March 31, 2022March 31, 2022

Volunteer Spotlight — Pam Ratliff

Member Stories

Pam Ratliff, EAA 310504, has been an active member of EAA Chapter 91 in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, for around 35 years, serving as chapter secretary and treasurer.

March 24, 2022March 24, 2022

Galesburg’s 50th

Member Stories, Vintage

In a recent column for EAA Sport Aviation, contributor Vic Syracuse talks about his trip to the 50th National Stearman Fly-In this past September.

March 21, 2022March 21, 2022

How EAA Adirondack Chairs Saved Us From the Pandemic

AirVenture, Chapters, Member Stories

EAA Chapter 35 in San Antonio, Texas, used EAA’s Adirondack chair program to stay active and vibrant during the COVID-19 pandemic.

March 21, 2022March 21, 2022

Young Pilots Take Wing

Chapters, Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

EAA Chapter 91 and the Kansas City Radio Control Association teamed up to introduce young people to RC aircraft through the EAA Young Eagles Build and Fly program.

March 10, 2022

A Flying Piece of Family History

Member Stories, Vintage

Dad talked about his old Cub for years. When I tracked it down, I had no choice but to bring it back into the family.

March 7, 2022

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Kentucky Zenith CH 750

Homebuilding, Member Stories

EAA member Paul Gabehart takes us through the build of his Zenith CH 750 in the February 2022 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine.

March 2, 2022

Volunteer Spotlight — Stephen Leonard

Member Stories

Stephen Leonard, EAA Lifetime 286293, joined the EAA Aeromedical Advisory Council (AAC) in the 1980s and has been assisting EAA members and pilots, as well as the organization, with medical-related ... Read more

February 24, 2022March 1, 2022

Bits and Pieces — Ruffled Feathers

Flying Tips, Member Stories

Seasoned airline pilot and EAA member John Wyman discusses some of his thoughts on pilot training and technique when it comes to approach and landing.

February 24, 2022

Bits and Pieces — Painting a Zenith CH 750

Homebuilding, Member Stories

EAA member Mike Davenport helps a hangar neighbour paint his Zenith project.

February 16, 2022

The Journey to Becoming a Private Pilot

Learning to Fly, Member Stories

Josh Robinson, Matthew Platt Scholarship and Tex Edwards Scholarship recipient, shares where he is in the journey to earning his private pilot certificate, how the scholarships have helped him, and ... Read more

February 15, 2022February 28, 2022

Checking Off Multiple Milestones

Member Stories, Milestones

I’ve wanted to fly for as long as I can remember. When I was little, for about three years in a row I asked Santa for a flying car for ... Read more

February 10, 2022

Flying the B-25

Member Stories, Warbirds

Thanks to the Delaware Aviation Museum, I found myself enjoying the experience of a lifetime — flying a WWII North American B-25 Mitchell medium bomber.

February 10, 2022

Scholarship Helps EAA Member Afford Flight Training

Learning to Fly, Member Stories

An EAA scholarship is helping high school student Vanessa Christianson earn her pilot certificate.

February 3, 2022

Member Spotlight — Raymond Caswell

Member Stories

After a wonderful 87 years of flying, Raymond (Ray) Caswell, EAA 28431, reflects on some of his favorite memories at 99 years of age.

February 3, 2022

Thank You From a Grateful Scholarship Recipient

Learning to Fly, Member Stories

Although I did not come from an aviation background, with the support of my family and my local EAA chapter I became very involved and passionate about aviation. EAA and ... Read more

February 3, 2022

Volunteer Spotlight — Bill Zierdt

Member Stories

Bill Zierdt, EAA 685278, has been involved with EAA as a volunteer since 2000. As a former Army helicopter pilot who has flown a variety of types, Bill began as ... Read more

February 2, 2022

Bits and Pieces: A New Panel for Grumman Cheetah C-GQIG

Member Stories, Vintage

A detailed look at the installation of a new panel in a classic Grumman Cheetah.

February 2, 2022

Bits and Pieces: The West Coast Pilot’s Club — Langley, British Columbia

Member Stories, Why We Fly

EAA member Mike Davenport provides an update on the relief flights that took place in British Columbia following catastrophic flooding in late 2021.

February 2, 2022

Bits and Pieces: How I Built a Transport Canada Certified Flight Simulator

Learning to Fly, Member Stories

EAA member Horst Federau takes us through the process of rebuilding a Piper Seminole flight simulator.

February 2, 2022

Bits and Pieces: A Cold January Flight in Ontario

Member Stories

A gentle reminder to make sure your canopy is all the way closed when going on a January flight.

January 27, 2022January 31, 2022

Making Dreams Come True

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

My name is Charlie Gibbons, and I am a 21-year-old student currently attending Kent State University. First off, I would like to say thank you for selecting me as the ... Read more

January 18, 2022

Heaven in Havana (Illinois, That Is)

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Visiting a revitalized airport with a fascinating history.

January 13, 2022

A BigFoot Replica for Christmas

Member Stories

Jay Jolley received an exciting surprise Christmas morning, an RC replica of his Carbon Cub, BigFoot, built by Daniel Baggett.

January 11, 2022

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — New Jersey Mooney M20E

Member Stories, Vintage

EAA member Paul Papasavas takes us through the process of upgrading his 1965 Mooney M20E.

January 5, 2022

Volunteer Spotlight — Douglas Conciatu

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

For nearly 30 years, Douglas Conciatu, EAA Lifetime 53419, has been an active member of EAA, flying Young Eagles every year, mostly from his home airport in Ray, Michigan. He ... Read more

January 4, 2022January 5, 2022

Bits and Pieces: Relief Flights to the Interior

Member Stories, Why We Fly

General aviation pilots stepped up to help out communities in need during recent flooding in British Columbia.

January 4, 2022January 5, 2022

Bits and Pieces: The Story Behind the Photo

Member Stories, Vintage

A beautiful image of a Fokker Super Universal and the tale about how this particular photo was captured.

January 4, 2022

Bits and Pieces: Hangar Flying

Member Stories

As winter settles in, we currently have much more time to indulge in telling stories of our flying experiences. What aviation enthusiast hasn’t indulged in that pastime? It’s a great ... Read more

January 4, 2022

Bits and Pieces: Aerial Artistry With a Heart

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Canadian pilot Dimitri Neonakis has taken to creating inspiring aerial art in Nova Scotia.

December 8, 2021

Aircraft Stories – My Stinson 108

Member Stories, Vintage

EAA member Mike Davenport recounts the history of his 75-year-old Stinson 108-1.

November 22, 2021

Volunteer Spotlight — Carl Franz

Member Stories

Carl Franz, EAA 511275, is a longtime volunteer with EAA and is the 2021 recipient of the Tony Bingelis Award, after serving as a technical counselor for almost 20 years. ... Read more

November 11, 2021November 11, 2021

Solo Milestone — Jake Marchese

Learning to Fly, Member Stories, Milestones, Youth & Young Eagles

Jake landed an airplane for the first time at age 13 on July 1, 2019. Last week he turned 16 and on October 30 the weather allowed him to experience ... Read more

November 9, 2021

Bits and Pieces: Creating a Bearhawk Rudder Trim System

Homebuilding, Member Stories

EAA Chapter 245 President Mark Richardson takes us through the inception and creation of the rudder trim system he’s installing on his scratchbuilt Bearhawk.

November 9, 2021

Bits and Pieces: Casey Fly-In 2021

Member Stories

The remote town of Casey, Quebec, hosts a fly-in each September. EAA member Bill Evans shares his experience traveling to and from the event this year.

November 9, 2021November 11, 2021

Bits and Pieces: Simulated Cockpits — An Unrealized Potential?

Learning to Fly, Member Stories

A look at flight simulator cockpits and their value to potential pilots and the general aviation community at large.

November 8, 2021

Bits and Pieces: Canes and What (Not) to Do With Them

Member Stories

When flying with a cane, here’s what you shouldn’t do.

November 8, 2021

Bits and Pieces: If Our Aircraft Could Talk, Oh What Stories…

Member Stories, Vintage

EAA Canadian Council member Jack Neima recounts the long and fascinating history of his 82-year-old Piper Cub.

November 3, 2021

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Texas Van’s RV-10

Homebuilding, Member Stories

Robert G. Skinner, EAA 773419, takes us through the build of his beautiful Van’s RV-10.

October 26, 2021

Volunteer Spotlight — Sue Gerencser

AirVenture, Member Stories

For the past 18 years, Sue Gerencser, EAA 1049125, has been helping out with a variety of maintenance-related projects around the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh grounds prior to convention. For her ... Read more

October 14, 2021

Exiting the Hold

Member Stories, Why We Fly

There is a category of commercial aviators that appear to be in the business only because it pays the bills. They couldn’t care less about the wonders we are privileged ... Read more

October 14, 2021

Building a Cooling iPad Mini Kneeboard

DIY, Homebuilding, Member Stories

Tom Nery couldn’t find the perfect kneeboard for his iPad mini, so, in true EAA fashion, he set out to build one himself.

October 13, 2021

AirVenture 2021 a Full-Circle Experience for Luftwaffe Pilot

AirVenture, Member Stories

A400M Atlas Luftwaffe pilot Peter Lukasczyk made his long-awaited return to Oshkosh this past summer.

October 11, 2021

From Scrap Metal to Simulator

Member Stories

The roar of the engine of a T-6 Harvard was filling the sky while it was flying loops high above the neighbourhood. On the ground, a young boy ran to ... Read more

October 6, 2021

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Florida Van’s RV-10

Homebuilding, Member Stories

EAA member Blake Gambsky takes us through the build of his immaculate Van’s RV-10.

September 28, 2021

A South African Adventure

Chapters, Member Stories, Why We Fly

A transatlantic training flight turned into a reunion with old friends for EAA member Arnie Quast.

September 28, 2021

Honoring EAA’s Founder

AirVenture, Member Stories

EAA volunteer Robert Wubben recently created a photo mosaic honoring late EAA founder Paul Poberezny.

September 28, 2021September 28, 2021

Volunteer Spotlight — Alan Farkas

Member Stories

As the former volunteer chairman of the EAA Legal Advisory Council, Alan Farkas, EAA Lifetime 681323, has spent many years assisting EAA members on a variety of legal and FAA-related ... Read more

September 23, 2021

My Short Solo Cross-Country

Learning to Fly, Member Stories

From point A to points B, C, D, and back to A, all by myself.

September 9, 2021

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Turks and Caicos Comp Air 4 and Zenith CH 701

Homebuilding, Member Stories

EAA member Mark Woodring takes us through the build of his Comp Air and Zenith CH 701.

September 9, 2021

Too Close to Call

Flying Tips, Member Stories

Anyone who has been flying for very long recognizes the potential for a midair collision. No matter how careful we are, there is always a chance that we’ll miss something ... Read more

September 8, 2021September 8, 2021

Solo Milestone: Megan Lokstet

Learning to Fly, Member Stories, Milestones

On August 2, 2021, EAA Chapter 63’s Ray Scholar, Megan Lokstet, achieved every pilot’s coveted milestone, her first solo.

September 7, 2021September 8, 2021

Airberta Air Rally Day 3: August 27, 2020

Member Stories

It’s Day 3 of the first-ever Airberta Air Rally, hosted by the Harvard Air Museum at Red Deer Regional Airport (CYQF). It will be a long one as we’re headed ... Read more

September 7, 2021

My Own Little Business: Echo Foxtrot Aircraft Washing

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

If you are ever flying down into the Annapolis Valley, consider the services of Echo Foxtrot Aircraft Washing in making your airplane all squeaky clean again.

August 31, 2021

Volunteer Spotlight – Bob McLaughlin

Member Stories

For nearly the past 40 years, Bob McLaughlin, EAA 188831, has volunteered with EAA in some shape or form.

August 26, 2021

Why I Fly

Member Stories, Why We Fly

A perfect, sunset flight was a chance for one EAA member to reflect on why he flies.

August 26, 2021September 9, 2021

Remembered at Oshkosh

AirVenture, Member Stories

A family bound together by aviation took a moment during AirVenture Oshkosh 2021 to remember one of their own.

August 26, 2021

Solo Milestone — Alden Frautschy

Learning to Fly, Member Stories, Milestones

Congratulations to EAA staff member Alden Frautschy, who soloed on Monday, August 23!

August 25, 2021

Solo Milestone — Gus Steffen

Learning to Fly, Member Stories, Milestones

Congratulations to Gustave “Gus” Steffen, EAA 1262111, on his first solo flight!

August 24, 2021August 24, 2021

Staying Sharp

Homebuilding, Member Stories

It’s never a bad time for a new challenge, as columnist Vic Syracuse explains in the July 2021 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine.

August 18, 2021

Airythmia’s First AirVenture

AirVenture, Member Stories, Ultralights

Paramotor team Airythmia performed for the very first time together during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2021’s Twilight Flight Fest.

August 12, 2021August 12, 2021

Gone West

Member Stories

Sparing a thought for the loss of a friend unmet.

August 12, 2021

GoFly Inspires 14-Year-Old to Design Her Own Flying Machine

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

Teenager Gia Keiper gained some serious design and engineering inspiration from the GoFly competition.

August 5, 2021August 5, 2021

Volunteer Spotlight — Ted and Lynn Kirkpatrick

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

When it comes to EAA’s Young Eagles program, you won’t find too many volunteers more passionate than Ted and Lynn Kirkpatrick.

August 5, 2021August 4, 2021

Lost Then Found

AirVenture, Member Stories, Stories Of Oshkosh

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh’s Lost and Found has reunited many convention visitors with things like lost cameras, wallets, and cell phones. But on Friday night, July 30, they made their most ... Read more

August 5, 2021August 4, 2021

An AirVenture Proposal

AirVenture, Member Stories

Josh Fischer proposed to Jessica Thacker in the vintage aircraft area, after the two met years ago during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh.

July 31, 2021

Homebuilt Sperocco Starts With a Good Plan and Makes It Better

AirVenture, Homebuilding, Member Stories, Stories Of Oshkosh

It is gray and subdued, an understated exterior for a smooth custom homebuilt firmly rooted in the plans of the legendary Marcel Jurca.

July 31, 2021

Keeping a Tradition Alive

AirVenture, Member Stories

About 40 family and friends from Monterrey, Mexico, arrived on the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2021 grounds before the start of the annual fly-in convention last Friday.

July 31, 2021

A Ray Scholar’s Aviation Journey

AirVenture, Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth & Young Eagles

Seventeen-year-old Jayden Chow didn’t come from an aviation family. Jayden, EAA 1293557, was first introduced to EAA by his dad’s coworker.

July 31, 2021

Family, Friends, and Flying: Four Generations Celebrate AirVenture

AirVenture, Member Stories, Stories Of Oshkosh

For the Grantonic family, attending EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is like attending a family reunion on steroids.

July 31, 2021

Tying the Knot Twice on the Tri-Motor

Air Tours, AirVenture, Member Stories, Stories Of Oshkosh

Holly Baldwin Scheibner said her husband, James, isn’t the most romantic guy. So that made the surprise even more unbelievable.

July 31, 2021

Best of British

AirVenture, Member Stories, Warbirds

It was a Hawker Hurricane and a Supermarine Spitfire that drew crowds at AirVenture.

July 30, 2021

Dedicated Fuel Station Volunteers Keep AirVenture Running

AirVenture, Member Stories

Tradition. It’s what brings Orrin Howard and Lorraine Schram back every year to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh to volunteer and work at the fuel station.

July 30, 2021

Texas Teen Scratchbuilds Sky Pup

AirVenture, Member Stories, Ultralights, Youth & Young Eagles

Gage Wirtzberger, EAA 1324792, 18, of Greenville, Texas, built a Sky Pup from scratch and plans to fly it for the first time in a month.

July 30, 2021

A Great Big Little Bomber

AirVenture, History, Homebuilding, Member Stories

“It’s just an airplane.” That’s how the late Jack Bally, EAA 348338, a lifelong pilot and builder, described his one-third scale replica of a Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress — just ... Read more

July 30, 2021August 1, 2021

Tracing History – Following the Oregon and California Trails

AirVenture, Member Stories, Why We Fly

The Grand Prize winner in EAA’s Pilot Your Own Adventure Contest, supported by Flight Outfitters.

July 30, 2021

One-of-a-Kind Twin-Engine RV Creates Stir

AirVenture, Homebuilding, Member Stories

Jim and Ginger Tomaszewski of Clayton, Georgia, flew their stunning and diminutive TwinJAG to Oshkosh where it generates a lot of buzz.

July 29, 2021

Early Ray Scholar Volunteers at GirlVenture

AirVenture, Celebrating Women, Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

Amy Whelan, EAA 1283566, goes from the mentee to mentor at AirVenture 2021 during the GirlVenture camp.

July 29, 2021July 29, 2021

Poberezny Legacy Tour

AirVenture, History, Honoring The Past, Member Stories

You can learn interesting stories about Paul and Audrey Poberezny, as well as see the 9-acre grounds that they once called home as part of the Poberezny Legacy Tour.

July 28, 2021

Member Spotlight: Steve Morse

AirVenture, Member Stories

Meet Steve Morse, EAA 223710. That name might be familiar to you, if you are familiar with the Dixie Dregs, Kansas, or Deep Purple — but around Oshkosh, Steve is ... Read more

July 28, 2021July 28, 2021

The Infinite Highway of the Air – Flying From Alabama to Alaska

AirVenture, Member Stories, Why We Fly

The third-place winner in EAA’s Pilot Your Own Adventure Contest, supported by Flight Outfitters.

July 27, 2021July 27, 2021

A Tale of 2 Sharks

AirVenture, Homebuilding, Member Stories

As you make your way around the grounds, you can find many unusual or even unique airplanes. However, you won’t see many paint jobs as eye-catching as Lonnie Autry’s RV-8, ... Read more

July 27, 2021July 27, 2021

Classic German Biplane Design Builds Memories

AirVenture, Member Stories, Warbirds

It’s a pugnacious little biplane, resplendent in World War II German colors. It’s a 1954 Spanish-built clone of the 1930s German Bücker Jungmann trainer.

July 27, 2021

Admissions Volunteers

AirVenture, Celebrating Women, Member Stories

Volunteers are what make everything EAA does possible. With more than 5,000 volunteers helping out at AirVenture this year, it would be impossible not to run into one of them. ... Read more

July 27, 2021July 27, 2021

Wings of Friendship

AirVenture, Member Stories, Why We Fly

The fourth-place winner in EAA’s Pilot Your Own Adventure Contest, supported by Flight Outfitters.

July 27, 2021July 28, 2021

Very Important Pooch Retrieves Pouch From Lost and Found

AirVenture, Member Stories

Rose London, her husband Phil Weber and Rose’s dog Issie came to the Lost and Found building on Monday to reclaim the dog’s bag, filled with her service dog harness, ... Read more

July 26, 2021

A Circumnavigational Flight Around the United States

AirVenture, Member Stories, Why We Fly

The fifth-place winner in EAA’s Pilot Your Own Adventure Contest, supported by Flight Outfitters.

July 25, 2021July 26, 2021

Happy Anniversary, Debbie and Jack!

AirVenture, Member Stories

Jack Klein, EAA 518733, and Debbie Klein, EAA 1058911, celebrated their wedding by coming to AirVenture for their honeymoon, 40 years ago on this very day. “We were here for ... Read more

July 25, 2021

Long Cross-Country – Teenage pilot arrives in style

AirVenture, Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

Seventeen-year-old Brady Sherrow, EAA 1062054, flew into Oshkosh on his longest cross-country trip yet, just two weeks after earning his private pilot certificate!

July 24, 2021

Schaick, Scholler, and Mulva – The Names Behind the Signs

AirVenture, History, Member Stories

Like any other medium-sized city, the names of roads and other areas in and around the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh grounds are identified by signs.

July 16, 2021July 16, 2021

The Doctor and the 172R-2

Member Stories

The house phone rang early in the evening — a rare event as most calls come in on my cell. My wife answered the call and then handed me the ... Read more

July 16, 2021July 16, 2021

Red Deer Forestry Strip Fly-Out

Member Stories

A couple of us from our chapter recently participated in a fly-out against the backdrop of some spectacular scenery.

July 16, 2021July 16, 2021

Airberta Air Rally Day 2

Member Stories, Uncategorized

Dennis continues his series of updates from the first ever Airberta Air Rally.

July 8, 2021

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Ohio EAA Biplane

Homebuilding, Member Stories

EAA member Jonathan Walters takes us through the lengthy build of his EAA Biplane.

July 8, 2021

Cross-Country Cub — A First-Hand Experience

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

That first solo became a watershed moment for me, and before long, I had set the goal of flying our little Piper from my home airport, Goodspeed Airport in East ... Read more

June 24, 2021June 24, 2021

Cool Memories

Member Stories

Taking a moment amid the mid-summer heat to look back on some winter fly-in fun.

June 23, 2021June 23, 2021

Member Benefits: SOLIDWORKS

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

EAA student member George Pytel, EAA 1396839, has been using SOLIDWORKS, a free CAD software program available to EAA members, to set himself up for success after high school in ... Read more

June 21, 2021June 22, 2021

Prolific Builders

Homebuilding, Member Stories

When in the fall of 1978 I commenced my flight training for a private pilot’s license I had no clue that this would become a 40-year involvement.

June 21, 2021June 21, 2021

Building My Pietenpol Air Camper Made Me a Better Person

Homebuilding, Member Stories

I have heard it often said that in order to build an airplane you need to have mastered a great number of skills, have a large, well-equipped workshop, and hoards ... Read more

June 21, 2021June 22, 2021

The (Soon-To-Be) Great Airberta Air Rally

Member Stories

Day 1 of the first-ever Airberta Air Rally, hosted by the Harvard Air Museum at Red Deer Regional Airport (CYQF), is geared up and ready to kick off at high ... Read more

June 16, 2021

The Wichawk Turns 50

History, Homebuilding, Honoring The Past, Member Stories

Remembering my dad’s design, 50 years after its first flight.

June 16, 2021

Coming of Age: A 16-Year-Old’s Cross-Country Adventure

Learning to Fly, Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth & Young Eagles

On Tuesday, June 8, 16-year-old Luc Zipkin set out in his 1946 Piper J3C-65 Cub to fly cross-country.

June 15, 2021

Lessons Learned: When Not to Fly

Flying Tips, Member Stories

A summer thunderstorm in Tennessee quickly turned a very nice sunset flight into a landing nightmare. Crazy wind gusts on final approach with very poor visibility through the windshield made ... Read more

June 9, 2021

Learning on the Job

Chapters, Homebuilding, Member Stories

One man’s unfinished history with a Pietenpol.

June 9, 2021

Pursuing Passions — How I Launched My Flying Career in High School

Chapters, Learning to Fly, Member Stories

EAA member Joseph Mensah takes us through the challenges he overcame en route to his private pilot certificate.

June 3, 2021

Volunteer Spotlight — Mike Dooley

AirVenture, Member Stories

For the past decade, Mike Dooley, EAA 834638, has been a mainstay volunteer in the Homebuilts area of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, working primarily in homebuilt registration.

May 18, 2021

He Just Gave Me a Glider

Member Stories

Glider pilot Colten Coughlin received quite the surprise from a fellow glider enthusiast.

May 12, 2021May 12, 2021

Bits and Pieces Prolific Builder Series – Gord Baxter

Homebuilding, Member Stories

I started my flight training June 1963 at age 18 in a 1946 Fleet Canuck (taildragger) at Breslau, Ontario, and received my PPL one year later in June 1964.

May 10, 2021

Dream It

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Norm DeWitt, EAA Lifetime 179893, has flown Air Force fighters, competition aerobatic aircraft, homebuilts, and nearly everything in between over the past 56 years.

May 10, 2021

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Florida Airdrome Aeroplanes Fokker E-III Replica

Homebuilding, Member Stories

EAA member Mike Dann takes us through the build of his Airdrome Aeroplanes Fokker E-III replica.

April 22, 2021April 22, 2021

Prolific Builders — Tom Martin

Homebuilding, Member Stories

One day, a friend suggested that I build an airplane.

April 22, 2021April 22, 2021

Backcountry Flying — in Manitoba?

Member Stories

There is nothing like flying into places that you have never been to before to heighten senses and sharpen skills.

April 15, 2021

Setting Records and Taking Names

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Since moving to the United States 20 years ago, Harley Milne, EAA 1377610, made it his top priority to see as much of the country as he could, but he’s ... Read more

April 15, 2021

Volunteer Spotlight — Mark Spang

Member Stories, Stories Of Oshkosh

Mark Spang’s interest in aviation began at a young age. When he was just a kid, Mark, EAA 129553, would help his father, who was an Air Force mechanic in ... Read more

April 8, 2021April 8, 2021

Scholarship Recipient Says Thank You

Learning to Fly, Member Stories

Jack Miller, EAA 1316614, earned his private pilot certificate in April 2020. Now, Jack is looking back and giving thanks.

April 8, 2021April 8, 2021

EAA Staffers Fly Great Horned Owl in Pilots N Paws Mission

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Christina Basken, EAA 1299943, and David Leiting, EAA Lifetime 579157, participated in their first Pilots N Paws mission on Friday, March 26, to transport an injured owl.

April 1, 2021April 1, 2021

The Sound of Silence

Flying Tips, Member Stories

Then, the engine stops cold. No more vibrations. We are now a glider.

March 26, 2021March 26, 2021

Prolific Builders — Dale Lamport

Homebuilding, Member Stories, Why We Fly

By email interview with Dale Lamport of Smiths Falls, Ontario, we put together the following this first in a series of articles about amazing Canadians who have built several aircraft.

March 26, 2021

The Time Had Come

Member Stories

Saying goodbye is never easy.

March 25, 2021March 25, 2021

My Last Airplane

Member Stories, Why We Fly

I turn 65 in May and I know my aviating days could be over at any time. Although I’m in good health, anything can crop up and change that in ... Read more

March 25, 2021March 26, 2021

EAA’s The Green Dot — Completing Airport Passport Programs in 5 States

Member Stories, Podcast

This time on EAA’s The Green Dot, the crew welcomed Michael Haubrich, EAA 1169382, to talk about what it was like to plan and fly to 510 airports across 5 ... Read more

March 18, 2021March 22, 2021

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — California Lockwood AirCam

Homebuilding, Member Stories

EAA member Mike Bell takes us through the build of his Lockwood AirCam.

March 11, 2021March 11, 2021

Volunteer Spotlight — Jim Hornby and Dennis Lange

AirVenture, Member Stories

The Vintage Aircraft Association portion of the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh grounds takes up a pretty sizable chunk. Maintaining that chunk requires a lot of volunteer effort, and it begins with ... Read more

March 11, 2021March 11, 2021

Tribute to the Grandest Aviatrix: NC8407

History, Member Stories

An aircraft was just turning final and my brother stopped the car for a clear view. It looked very sturdy, like our Eads Bridge in St. Louis. We recognized it ... Read more

March 10, 2021

Volunteer Spotlight — Dennis Phillippi

AirVenture, Member Stories

Dennis first showed up at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 1995, looking to buy a Rotorway helicopter kit to build.

February 11, 2021February 15, 2021

Volunteer Spotlight — Jan Stadt

AirVenture, Member Stories

Jan Stadt’s tenure as an EAA volunteer began back in the 1990s when her husband, Dave, was in the process of earning his pilot certificate.

January 21, 2021

Not Your Mother’s STOL Competition

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Taking place this past September at Byrd’s Adventure Center in the middle of the Arkansas Ozarks, the ArkanSTOL Ozark Backwoods Challenge featured some of the nation’s premier STOL pilots!

January 21, 2021

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Nevada Javron PA-18 Replicas

Homebuilding, Member Stories

EAA member Ron Kodimer takes us through the build of three identical Javron Super Cubs.

January 13, 2021

Oh the Consequences Could Have Been … !

Member Stories

Recently I started up my engine and, while the engine seemed to be running fine, the analog instruments in the panel all started jumping around wildly. I had no idea ... Read more

January 13, 2021

Measure Twice, Cut Once

Homebuilding, Member Stories

The painful and powerful lessons of scratch-building.

January 13, 2021

RV-8 and ADS-B Testing Across Canada

Member Stories

A long cross country flight proved the perfect opportunity to test new tech.

January 13, 2021

Volunteer Spotlight — Kathy Frey

AirVenture, Member Stories

Starting in 1998, Kathy Frey, EAA 1069808, has been a mainstay in Camp Scholler, assisting campers in finding suitable camping sites and helping out with just about anything else that ... Read more

December 16, 2020

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — Michigan Zenith CH 750 Cruzer

Homebuilding, Member Stories

Mark Pensenstadler takes us through the build of his Zenith CH 750 Cruzer.

December 10, 2020

Volunteer Spotlight — Gordon and Cathy Davis

AirVenture, Member Stories

For the past five years, the husband and wife team of Gordon and Cathy Davis have volunteered in the KidVenture area of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh — helping to inspire the ... Read more

December 3, 2020

Finding a Diamond in the Rough

Chapters, Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

How an EAA chapter made a difference by adopting an airport.

November 24, 2020

5 States and 510 Airports in 55 Days Over 3 Years

Member Stories, Why We Fly

How Michael Haubrich became the first pilot to complete the airport passport program in five Midwest states.

November 24, 2020

Making the Best of Noshkosh

DIY, Member Stories

Local gatherings re-create the spirit of AirVenture.

November 24, 2020

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — North Carolina Champion 7GCBC Citabria Explorer

DIY, From The Hangar Floor, Member Stories, Vintage

EAA member Mark Thoman takes us through the restoration of his Champion 7GCBC Citabria Explorer.

November 11, 2020

Stay Close to Home Flyout

Member Stories

On July 18, 2020, I organized a small fly-out to explore to some of our local airports.

November 10, 2020November 10, 2020

There’s a Zombie at our Airport!

Member Stories

There has been an incredible amount of activity at our airfield these days. Not so much with pilots and aircraft, but with zombies. Seriously! Zombies.

November 10, 2020November 10, 2020

Throwback Thursday

Member Stories

Every year after I return from AirVenture I try to get to a small but very interesting aviation event called the Gathering of the Classics held each year in mid-August ... Read more

October 22, 2020October 22, 2020

An Aviation Dreamland Nestled in the Ozarks

Member Stories

Meet Todd Banks. Located outside of Eureka Springs, Arkansas, near the Missouri border, exists the Banks Ranch; a private oasis and aviation dreamland built by Todd himself, with a little ... Read more

October 14, 2020October 15, 2020

Beefalo Fly-In

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Fresh burgers and corn on the cob on the Québec/U.S. border.

October 7, 2020October 7, 2020

Every Airport Has a Personality

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Is yours a “friendly” airport?

October 1, 2020October 1, 2020

Youth Aircraft Building Project Teaches Skills, Enthusiasm

Homebuilding, Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

Having worked in the airline industry for decades, EAA member John Cronin saw firsthand the decline in younger generations’ involvement and pursuit of aviation as a career choice or hobby. ... Read more

September 24, 2020September 24, 2020

Volunteer Spotlight — Mark Kolesar

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

With more than 875 Young Eagles flights under his belt, it’s safe to say that Mark Kolesar, EAA Lifetime 294238, is heavily invested in EAA’s success as an organization, particularly ... Read more

September 24, 2020September 24, 2020

Worth the Wait

Homebuilding, Member Stories

After more than 30 years, my big brother finally fought his way back to the cockpit.

September 23, 2020September 23, 2020

Fighting the Fires

Member Stories

I could see active forest fires burning off on the horizon in Montana and Wyoming. I wondered what it might be like to fly aircraft working to extinguish these raging ... Read more

September 10, 2020September 10, 2020

North to Alaska

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Like most great adventures, this one started over dinner.

September 9, 2020September 9, 2020

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring — California Carbon Cub EX-2

From The Hangar Floor, Homebuilding, Member Stories

Jackie and Tobias Burch take us through the build of their CubCrafters Carbon Cub EX-2.

September 3, 2020September 3, 2020

Volunteer Spotlight — Eric Rood

AirVenture, Honoring The Past, Member Stories, Warbirds

With a love of history and deep respect for veterans, Eric Rood, EAA Lifetime 192552, is a perfect fit to volunteer with EAA’s Timeless Voices of Aviation oral history project.

September 3, 2020September 3, 2020

Looking Back at the 2020 Oshkosh Fly-In

Chapters, Member Stories

Never mind that AirVenture was canceled, one EAA chapter was determined to go to a fly-in at Oshkosh this year — any Oshkosh.

August 27, 2020August 27, 2020

Live with Mike Patey

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Watch never-before-seen Scrappy content, hear about Draco, and learn about Mike’s cool new projects in this interview that originally aired during Spirit of Aviation Week.

August 13, 2020August 13, 2020

Why So Sad?

Member Stories

Any idea why this aircraft looks so sad? It was sent to us by Mike Davenport. What do you think happened?

August 13, 2020August 13, 2020

PEEPSKOSH 2020

Member Stories, Why We Fly

A young man nicknamed Peeps was devastated that AirVenture was canceled, so his friends and family got together to put on the next best thing.

August 5, 2020August 5, 2020

Volunteer Spotlight — Doug Greenfield

AirVenture, Member Stories

Doug Greenfield, EAA 377864, has been attending EAA AirVenture Oshkosh since the early 1990s and volunteering in numerous capacities, beginning a few years after his first visit.

June 17, 2020June 17, 2020

Volunteer Spotlight — Lon Nanke

EAA Museum, Member Stories

If you’ve visited the EAA Aviation Museum in the past seven or eight years, there’s a good chance you’ve met docent Lon Nanke, EAA 187526.

May 21, 2020May 21, 2020

Never Forget

AirVenture, Member Stories, Why We Fly

Will Golden taught me that the best way to face death is to live to the end.

May 20, 2020May 20, 2020

Volunteer Spotlight — Bob Herman

AirVenture, Member Stories

Bob Herman, EAA Lifetime 61688, has been attending the EAA fly-in convention for 51 years and volunteering for 50 of those years.

May 14, 2020May 14, 2020

Aloha Aviators Are Helping in Hawaii

Member Stories, Why We Fly

The Aloha Aviators is a group of amateur female pilots and Honolulu-based Delta flight attendants who have been sewing masks and delivering them, plus other supplies, to the outer islands ... Read more

May 7, 2020May 7, 2020

Flying — It’s in the Blood (and the Genes)

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Four generations of flying Slingers.

April 30, 2020April 30, 2020

From Oshkosh to Australia

Member Stories

When I volunteered at the Australian table in the International Visitors Tent at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2019, I had no idea that my life would completely change just one month ... Read more

April 29, 2020April 29, 2020

Reflecting on AirVenture During Quarantine

AirVenture, Member Stories

Matt Carruthers, EAA 123832, shares his most cherished AirVenture memories.

April 29, 2020April 29, 2020

How EAA Launched Me Into Aviation

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

Matt Steward, EAA 1027069, took advantage of his time in quarantine to reminisce on his first EAA Young Eagles flight and set some goals for the future.

April 23, 2020April 23, 2020

A Vari Clever Solution to a COVID-19 Problem

Member Stories

From a VariViggen to noninvasive ventilation — how one EAA member turned his talents toward solving a pandemic-related problem.

April 22, 2020April 22, 2020

Volunteer Spotlight — Steve Owen

AirVenture, Member Stories

Steve Owen, EAA 382581, first attended EAA Oshkosh in 1982 after he happened to read about the event in an aviation magazine while he still lived in the United Kingdom.

April 10, 2020April 22, 2020

A Day at the Beach

Member Stories

For most of us, the word “beach” immediately invokes thoughts of a relaxed freedom, stemming from our early primal experiences of cavorting on seemingly endless acres of soft sand, with ... Read more

April 10, 2020April 10, 2020

Moe’s Ottawa River Fly-In 2020

Member Stories, Why We Fly

The last time I attended this event was with John Wyman in his ski-plane, a Champ, say five years ago.

April 8, 2020April 8, 2020

Volunteer Spotlight — Cindee Schneider

AirVenture, Member Stories

Cindee Schneider, EAA 1114863, has been volunteering at EAA’s annual fly-in convention for about 40 years, first in press headquarters and currently at helicopter operations.

March 26, 2020March 26, 2020

Volunteer Spotlight — Amy Crozier

AirVenture, Member Stories

Amy Crozier, EAA 1220935, was introduced to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2013 when a friend gave her tickets to the show.

March 18, 2020March 18, 2020

What to Read and Watch

Member Stories

If you’re looking for ways to stay engaged and entertained during a stint of self-isolation, here are 10 of my favorite aviation-related books and movies/television shows to consider.

March 18, 2020March 18, 2020

Volunteer Spotlight — Jim Heindl

AirVenture, Member Stories

Jim Heindl, EAA 570224, has been volunteering with EAA since 1993, primarily with flightline operations. For his volunteer service through the years, Jim was named a Brown Arch Brick Award ... Read more

February 26, 2020February 26, 2020

Volunteer Spotlight — Geoff Downey

AirVenture, Member Stories

Geoff Downey, EAA 105011, has been volunteering at AirVenture for nearly 30 years, with the vast majority of it as the rotorcraft chairman.

January 30, 2020January 30, 2020

The Initial Spark

AirVenture, Learning to Fly, Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

My wife and I recently had the thrill of seeing our son solo both a helicopter and a Cessna — as well as pass his glider private pilot checkride — ... Read more

January 15, 2020January 15, 2020

Volunteer Spotlight — Mert Taylor

Member Stories

Mert Taylor, EAA 156, has been around EAA since nearly the beginning. Years later, he’s still finding ways to volunteer with the organization.

January 9, 2020January 9, 2020

99 Miles on Batteries

Member Stories, Ultralights

At some point, apparently, I committed to flying my E-Gull electric ultralight from home base (KWVI) to my friend Bob’s home at Pine Mountain Lake (E45), nearly 100 miles away. ... Read more

December 11, 2019December 11, 2019

More Than One Mission

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Eric Sampson’s recent Eagle Flight had an ulterior motive.

November 27, 2019November 27, 2019

EAA Members Honored in Kansas

Member Stories

Five EAAers among the 25 people inducted into the International Forest of Friendship.

November 21, 2019November 21, 2019

The DeLand Naval Air Station Museum

Honoring The Past, Member Stories, Warbirds

A museum that’s easy to miss, and well worth a visit.

November 20, 2019November 20, 2019

Building an Airport Tetrahedron

Homebuilding, Member Stories

A different sort of homebuilt project.

November 5, 2019November 5, 2019

Full Circle — A Happy Reunion, 35 Years On

Member Stories, Why We Fly

How often is it at age 17 that you get your first ride in a historic 1942 Meyers OTW airplane? Then you end up owning that same airplane 35 years ... Read more

October 10, 2019October 10, 2019

Don’t Wait

Member Stories, Why We Fly

“I really enjoyed this trip,” I told my wife, Lois, as we flew the last leg home. Little did I know I’d never pilot my airplane again.

October 2, 2019October 2, 2019

The Wright Glider Stuff

Honoring The Past, Member Stories

The would-be pilot stood atop the sand dune hill at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, wondering if the craft he was about to fly would work as promised. The wind picked ... Read more

August 22, 2019August 22, 2019

Heather Penney Discusses 9/11 Experience, Beliefs in TEDx Talk

Celebrating Women, Member Stories

EAA board member Heather Penney, EAA 1266991, told her story of being scrambled on September 11, 2001, to protect Washington, D.C., and more in this TEDx talk given in Chelsea ... Read more

August 15, 2019August 15, 2019

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring: Arkansas Piper J-3 Cub

Member Stories, Vintage

This story started in August 1938 on a 40-acre cotton field near the Hempstead County line in Southwest Arkansas.

August 14, 2019August 15, 2019

Visiting the Museum of Flight

Member Stories

EAA staffer Christina Basken recently visited one of the world’s largest aviation museums, and came back with a great story and a lot of photos.

August 14, 2019August 14, 2019

Our Hike Into the British Columbia Bush to the Canso Bomber Wreckage

History, Member Stories

At 2300 on the night of February 10, 1945, a Royal Canadian Air Force Consolidated PBV-1A* Catalina serial No. 11007, also known as the Canso, took off from RCAF Tofino ... Read more

August 14, 2019August 14, 2019

A Non-Pilot Spouse’s Perspective on Oshkosh

AirVenture, Member Stories

It has been more than 15 years since my husband, Jack, started attending EAA AirVenture Oshkosh — the largest air show in the world!

August 1, 2019August 1, 2019

EAA’s The Green Dot — Elvis’ Pilot Ron Strauss

Member Stories, Podcast

This time on EAA’s The Green Dot, the crew was joined by Ron Strauss to talk about his beginning in aviation, becoming a professional pilot, being hijacked, and his time ... Read more

July 27, 2019July 27, 2019

An RV-7 Love Story ⁠⁠— Douglas Taylor’s N610TW

Member Stories

“It’s painted by John Stahr. I provided the canvas, the bodywork, and my life with my wife, Nan Wu, provided the inspiration,” Douglas Taylor said. “It’s based on our past ... Read more

July 26, 2019July 26, 2019

Here for Them All ⁠— 50 Years of Volunteering in Oshkosh

AirVenture, History, Member Stories, Stories Of Oshkosh

By Barbara A. Schmitz Bob Herman has been attending the EAA fly-in convention for 51 years, and volunteering for 50 of those years. “But I didn’t realize I was volunteering ... Read more

July 25, 2019July 25, 2019

Whirling Around the World — Taking a Gyroplane on a Worldwide Journey

AirVenture, History, Member Stories

In 2003, Norman Surplus, then 40, was diagnosed with bowel cancer. The prognosis wasn’t good. “They gave me a 40 percent chance to live 18 months,” he recalled. As he ... Read more

July 24, 2019July 24, 2019

A Special AirVenture Surprise — A South African T-6 With Family Ties

AirVenture, Member Stories, Warbirds

By Kayla Floyd Johan Guyt stood along the flightline on Sunday, July 21, when an airplane in the markings of his homeland, South Africa, touched down on the runway. As ... Read more

July 24, 2019July 24, 2019

Ercoupe Couple Shows Spirit of AirVenture

Homebuilding, Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

By John W. Conrad When Bob and Jean Porter of Batavia, Illinois, attended their first EAA air show at Oshkosh, they didn’t have an airplane, but they had a dream. ... Read more

July 22, 2019July 22, 2019

Sneaking in, Safely — A Soggy Saturday Didn’t Stop One Cirrus From Arriving

AirVenture, Member Stories

By John W. Conrad The skies had barely lifted and thunder still rumbled in the distance when the Cirrus SR22, piloted by 22-year-old Steven Noonan of Western Michigan University, entered ... Read more

July 22, 2019July 23, 2019

EAA Members Remember Watching Apollo 11 Landing, History Being Made

AirVenture, Anniversaries, Honoring The Past, Member Stories

By Barbara A. Schmitz Fifty years ago, the world watched in wonder as Apollo 11 approached the moon’s surface. People waited in front of their television sets, some for hours, ... Read more

July 9, 2019July 9, 2019

Chapter 1410 Zenith 601 XL Learn/Build — Update

Homebuilding, Member Stories

Since our last report, our group has been busy working on our amateur-built aircraft project.

July 9, 2019July 9, 2019

Aero Camping Expo at Brampton, Ontario

Member Stories

Visitors were amazed at the amount of stuff we could shoehorn into the Cessna 177 Cardinal or the GlaStar, next door. Aero camping can be very comfortable.

June 13, 2019June 13, 2019

Stories of Oshkosh — John Sullivan

AirVenture, Member Stories, Stories Of Oshkosh

John Sullivan, EAA 1307855, shares his memories of his first AirVenture.

June 11, 2019June 13, 2019

Member Stories — Campbell Harrod

AirVenture, Member Stories

As EAA AirVenture celebrates 50 consecutive years in Oshkosh, Campbell Harrod, EAA 125214, shared some of his favorite moments from the convention.

May 30, 2019May 30, 2019

Farewell Funk

Member Stories

It’s never easy to say goodbye to an airplane.

May 23, 2019May 23, 2019

The Story That Speedy Told Me

AirVenture, Member Stories

Dale Mitchell, EAA 766538, shares a special story of how one airplane can make a large impact on many people.

May 23, 2019May 23, 2019

What Our Members are Building/Restoring — Tennessee Aeronca 7AC Champ

Member Stories, Vintage

I flew my newly purchased 1946 Aeronca Champ on December 29, 2009, to its new home at Poplar Grove Airport in Illinois. My goal was to restore the Champ as ... Read more

May 16, 2019May 16, 2019

Landing the Space Shuttle — An Incredible Flying Machine and the Thrill of a Lifetime

Member Stories, Why We Fly

This was my first landing at the controls of Atlantis, and it was the culmination of a 10-day mission to the Russian Mir to deliver supplies and a fresh crew ... Read more

May 8, 2019May 9, 2019

Flying in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia

Member Stories

Flying in the lower mainland of British Columbia can be a wonderful experience with the views of the scenic snow-covered coastal mountains just to the north and the Strait of ... Read more

May 2, 2019May 2, 2019

The Cross-Country of a Lifetime

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Arnold Ebneter planned for decades to make an epic solo cross-country flight, and eventually he was able to take that great adventure that so many who pursue aviation dream of.

April 25, 2019April 25, 2019

One Hundred Years Young

Member Stories, Why We Fly

I asked a 100-year-old World War II bomber pilot if he wanted to go for a gyroplane ride. He said he’d love to, as soon as he was finished with ... Read more

April 25, 2019April 25, 2019

What Our Members are Building/Restoring — North Carolina Beech D55 Baron

Member Stories, Vintage

The Boeing 767 that I flew for American Airlines was nice, but I needed a jolt from my past where I grew up at the Beechcraft dealership in Greensboro, North ... Read more

April 12, 2019April 17, 2019

The Iconic DC-3

Member Stories

Those of you who are students of aviation history know that there are few if any airplanes that have served so many markets and influenced so many people as the ... Read more

April 10, 2019April 10, 2019

EAA’s The Green Dot — Verdego Aero President Erik Lindbergh

Member Stories, Podcast

The Green Dot crew sat down with Verdego Aero President Erik Lindbergh to talk about his aviation background, the meaning of his legacy as Charles and Anne’s grandson, and his ... Read more

March 27, 2019March 27, 2019

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring: Minnesota RotorWay Turbine 420

Homebuilding, Member Stories

About 30 years ago, I decided that if I were going to continue to fly my first RotorWay helicopter, I needed more power. So, back then I designed and built ... Read more

March 26, 2019March 26, 2019

Stories of Oshkosh — Jeremy Schotter

AirVenture, Member Stories, Stories Of Oshkosh

Jeremy Schotter, EAA 1170764, started attending AirVenture in 2015 after two of his friends had been inviting him for years.

March 20, 2019March 20, 2019

Stories of Oshkosh — Joseph Thalman

AirVenture, Member Stories, Stories Of Oshkosh

Joseph Thalman, EAA 570237, and his father have been attending EAA Oshkosh since the beginning.

March 14, 2019March 14, 2019

Treasure Map — A Graphic Representation of a Place in the Heart

Member Stories, Ultralights

“A map is not the territory it represents,” Alfred Korzybski wrote in a scholarly paper in 1931.

March 13, 2019March 14, 2019

How Far Would You Go to Make Your Dreams Reality?

Aerobatics, Member Stories

Maurizio Perissinotto, EAA Lifetime 1207972, had spent his childhood looking up to his father who was an airline and Air Force pilot.

March 8, 2019March 8, 2019

Maps and Why I Like Them

Member Stories

I recently got around to reading for the first time a book I purchased some 20 years ago.

March 7, 2019March 7, 2019

Get Your Kicks

Member Stories, Why We Fly

With a total of 2,448 miles of history-rich pavement, Route 66 is an ideal backdrop for a desert fly-in event.

February 21, 2019February 21, 2019

Chapter 1551 Builds Memorial Bench at Orlando Apopka Airport

Chapters, Member Stories

On January 19, EAA Chapter 1551 members, families, and friends came together to construct a memorial patio and seating area under a stand of palm trees beside the main ramp ... Read more

February 18, 2019February 18, 2019

The Restoration of Gipsy Moth C-GZIE

History, Honoring The Past, Member Stories, Warbirds

The story of the Gipsy Moth C-GZIE restoration.

February 18, 2019February 21, 2019

Canadians Check Out the Aviation Scene in Hawaii

History, Member Stories, Warbirds, Why We Fly

During the month of January, my wife and I were lucky enough to spend several weeks exploring and enjoying three Hawaiian Islands.

February 6, 2019February 6, 2019

Candler Field Youth Aviation Program Develops Pilot/Mechanic

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

Jacob was a high school junior with no idea what he wanted to do after high school. It did not take long for the Youth Aviation Program and its mentors ... Read more

February 6, 2019February 7, 2019

Stories of Oshkosh — Ambrose Hugo

AirVenture, Member Stories, Stories Of Oshkosh

Ambrose Hugo, also known as AJ, EAA Lifetime 56898, has been attending AirVenture since 1970, this is his story.

February 1, 2019February 1, 2019

Camaraderie in EAA South Africa

Chapters, Member Stories

What happens when your tail wheel falls off and everybody knows it but you?

January 23, 2019January 23, 2019

Bo the Bonanza: Arkansas Beech E33A Bonanza

Member Stories, Vintage

I confess I never set out to own a vintage aircraft. However, as fate would have it, my search led me to Bo the Bonanza, also known as N2939A, and ... Read more

January 23, 2019February 25, 2019

Stories of Oshkosh — Jerry Burke

AirVenture, Member Stories, Stories Of Oshkosh

Jerry Burke, EAA 365400, has been attending AirVenture since 1970 and this is his story.

January 17, 2019January 17, 2019

Stories of Oshkosh — John Maxfield

AirVenture, Member Stories, Stories Of Oshkosh

John Maxfield has been volunteering at the EAA fly-in convention since 1970, its first year in Oshkosh.

January 16, 2019January 16, 2019

EAA Mechanic Gerard Putzer Retires After 30 Years

Member Stories

Congratulations and thank you to Gerard Putzer, EAA 594840, who retired on Friday, January 11 after a solid 30 years of hard work and dedication.

January 16, 2019January 16, 2019

The Not-So-Young Eagles

Chapters, Homebuilding, Member Stories

In October 2018 a group of EAA Chapter 105 members began building an RV-12iS in a hangar near Hillsboro, Oregon. Eventually, they hope to form a flying club.

January 10, 2019January 14, 2019

Stories of Oshkosh — Joe Norris

AirVenture, Member Stories, Stories Of Oshkosh

A family friend, Jim Miles, introduced me to EAA at the 1970 convention in Oshkosh. Jim asked if I wanted to go to the convention with him in his Piper ... Read more

January 10, 2019January 10, 2019

Gabe White — Solo Milestone

Learning to Fly, Member Stories, Milestones, Youth & Young Eagles

Congratulations to 16-year-old Gabe White on his first solo flight in a Piper Cherokee last month.

January 3, 2019January 3, 2019

Switching Seats, From Young Eagle to Young Eagle Pilot

Chapters, Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

Matthew Tortorell’s Young Eagles flight three years ago changed his life and drove him to become a pilot, and he returned the favor in November by giving his first Young ... Read more

December 20, 2018December 20, 2018

The Amazing Nonstop Cross-Canada Flight of Red Morris

Honoring The Past, Member Stories

This story about a record-setting cross Canada flight continues the series on notable Canadian pilots.

December 20, 2018December 20, 2018

Make Way for Turtles

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Daniel Wegmueller recently got to fly a floatplane to an island in Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

December 13, 2018December 13, 2018

According to Plan: Alabama Falco F.8L

Homebuilding, Member Stories

When Larry Weldon got the green light from his wife, Jane, to begin working on a Falco F.8L, it didn’t take him long to jump into action and begin to ... Read more

December 5, 2018

EAA Lifetime Member Inducted Into Colorado Aviation Hall of Fame

Member Stories

Dick Janitell’s lifetime spent in and around aviation was recognized when he was inducted into the Colorado Aviation Hall of Fame in October.

November 15, 2018November 15, 2018

EAA Member Helps Fight California Wildfires

Member Stories

EAA member Marcos Valdez is helping to fight the California wildfires as a 747 firebomber pilot.

November 15, 2018

Young Eagle Goes From Learning to Teaching at EAA

EAA Museum, Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth & Young Eagles

After his Young Eagles flight, Thomas Sieracki dove deep into aviation before coming back to share his knowledge at EAA.

November 8, 2018November 8, 2018

A Young Eagle Pays it Forward

Chapters, Eagle Flights, Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth & Young Eagles

Longtime Young Eagles participant and volunteer Jerad Lewark flew his first Young Eagles mission and provided an Eagle Flight one week after passing his private pilot checkride.

October 31, 2018October 31, 2018

Homebuilts in Oregon

Honoring The Past, Member Stories, Why We Fly

The Oregon Aviation Historical Society celebrated the state’s rich homebuilt history with a recent fly-in.

October 25, 2018October 30, 2018

Oshkosh in the Backcountry

Air Show, Member Stories, Why We Fly

Finding the spirit of aviation on a dry lake bed.

October 23, 2018August 21, 2019

From Young Eagle to Airline Pilot

Celebrating Women, Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth & Young Eagles

Alan took Renée on a Young Eagles flight when she was 13, and now she’s an airline pilot.

October 18, 2018

Flight of the Condors

Member Stories, Why We Fly

The story of two volunteer pilots and their extremely unusual passengers.

October 2, 2018

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring – Tennessee Zenith CH 701

Homebuilding, Member Stories

EAA member Mark Phillips takes us through the build of his Zenith CH 701.

September 27, 2018September 27, 2018

Young Eagles Take Flight in Germany

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

A couple of kids traveled thousands of miles to go for a ride in a Kitfox.

September 27, 2018

Splashin’ In In Indiana

Member Stories

The Indiana Seaplane Pilots Association’s recently held its 16th annual Splash-In at Pokagon State Park in northeast Indiana.

September 27, 2018October 1, 2018

The Doc Experience

Air Tours, Honoring The Past, Member Stories, Warbirds

EAA member Nick Moore shares his experience riding on B-29 Superfortress Doc.

September 20, 2018

A Man and His Airplane

Chapters, Member Stories

Paul Adrien is a soft spoken man that you would not realize has a wealth of knowledge and experience when you first meet him, unless you happen to mention airplanes.

September 13, 2018September 13, 2018

Three Decades of Solo Stinson Restoration

Homebuilding, Member Stories

John Chiprean, EAA 156445, completed every part of his Stinson 10A Voyager restoration himself over three decades.

September 5, 2018

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring: Indiana Piper PA-18A Super Cub

Homebuilding, Member Stories

Restoring a PA-18A Super Cub, and keeping it true to form with a small hopper.

August 30, 2018August 21, 2019

Allie Draper – Private Pilot Milestone

Celebrating Women, Member Stories, Milestones, Youth & Young Eagles

Allie Draper passed her private pilot checkride after taking a Young Eagles flight a few years earlier.

August 29, 2018

Lil Devil – FLS Microjet

Homebuilding, Member Stories

L.D. Jeffries, EAA 660758, was looking for something to do in his upcoming retirement from United Airlines — all he knew for sure was that he wasn’t going to sit ... Read more

August 23, 2018August 23, 2018

KidVenture 2018 Visitors Re-Create EAA at Home

AirVenture, Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

A couple of younger AirVenture 2018 attendees decided to re-create the magic of EAA at home because they enjoyed it so much.

August 23, 2018

Getting Away – Javron Super Cub

Homebuilding, Member Stories, Why We Fly

Bill Rusk, EAA 350098, built his Javron Super Cub for a specific mission: Alaskan bush flying.

August 23, 2018

A Different Kind of VIP

Air Tours, Member Stories

His world went totally dark 40 years ago. This year, his friend Rex gave him a tour of AirVenture that changed both of their perspectives.

August 16, 2018

Flight Training for a Good Cause

Member Stories, Why We Fly

When 39-year-old Eric Sampson was asked to fly an animal rescue mission, he was happy to help. There was only one problem — he wasn’t a pilot, yet.

August 1, 2018August 1, 2018

Attending EAA’s Women Soar You Soar

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

Fifteen-year-old Abigail shares her experiences from EAA’s 2018 Women Soar You Soar camp.

July 28, 2018

Rachel’s Jewelry Funding Homebuilt LSA

AirVenture, Homebuilding, Member Stories, Why We Fly

Sixteen-year-old with flying dreams using small business earnings to build plane

July 27, 2018

Australian Veteran Attends 29th Oshkosh Convention

AirVenture, Member Stories

Bill Babb, EAA 374804, has a lot in common with the average EAA AirVenture Oshkosh attendee. In some ways, he is also very different.

July 25, 2018

EAA Member Makes First Visit to AirVenture as Red Bull Pilot

Aerobatics, Air Show, AirVenture, Member Stories

For an EAA member, there is no better way to arrive at AirVenture than by air. But Aaron Fitzgerald, EAA 1272985, has most pilots beat.

July 12, 2018

Michelle Abruzzese — First Flight Lesson Milestone

Member Stories, Milestones

Michelle recently took her first flight lesson after being inspired by a Young Eagles flight.

June 14, 2018June 14, 2018

Air Academy Serves as Step on Aviation Journey to Hawaii

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

James Alaggio attended the 2003 EAA Air Academy on the way to following his dreams of living and flying in Hawaii.

June 12, 2018

A Father’s Day Note

Member Stories

Darin Paine shares his memories from growing up as the son of a military pilot.

June 1, 2018June 1, 2018

Return to Flight

Member Stories, Why We Fly

An air traffic controller shares the story of his return to the left seat.

May 31, 2018June 14, 2018

Chapter-Sponsored Air Academy Trip Leads to EAA Job

Chapters, Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

EAA Chapter Field Representative Kyle Voltz began his EAA journey after a chapter-sponsored trip to EAA’s Air Academy.

May 31, 2018

Canadian Flight School Offers Training to Students with Disabilities

Learning to Fly, Member Stories

Zach Elliott owns and operates Ontario Advanced Ultralights, a flight school that serves any students wanting to fly, including those with disabilities.

May 23, 2018

Dedication of an Icon: The Memphis Belle

Member Stories, Warbirds

EAA’s Chris Henry shares his journey from volunteering on B-17 maintenance to speaking at the Memphis Belle’s unveiling at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force.

May 23, 2018June 20, 2018

Hans Noack – Private Pilot Checkride Milestone

Member Stories, Milestones

Congratulations to Hans Noack, EAA 848994, on passing his private pilot checkride!

May 4, 2018

From Women Soar You Soar to the Air Force

Member Stories

EAA’s program for young women in aviation sparked Lydia’s pursuit of a career in aviation.

April 20, 2018

Powered Paragliding Filmed by Google Satellite

Member Stories, Ultralights, Why We Fly

An ordinary day of powered paragliding was etched into history.

April 13, 2018April 13, 2018

Air Academy Unlocks Potential in Airline Pilot, Flight Instructor

Member Stories

The EAA Air Academy inspired Sarah Borg to turn her flying passions into a career and to give back to GA.

April 10, 2018

A Canadian Trip to the 1991 Reno Air Races

Air Show, Member Stories

By Mike Davenport, EAA 89102 Back in 1991, my friend Jim McRae and I decided to drive from Vancouver, Canada, to Reno, Nevada, to see the 28th National Championship Air ... Read more

April 5, 2018April 5, 2018

Two-seat Little Toot Introduced to Honor a Father

AirVenture, Homebuilding, Member Stories

To honor his father, Tommy Meyer created a two-seat version of the legendary Little Toot biplane, known as the Big Toot.

April 5, 2018

Braden Hobbs – Private Pilot Checkride Milestone

Chapters, Member Stories, Milestones

Congratulations to 17-year-old Braden Hobbs, one of the HAWK kids profiled in the April issue of Sport Aviation, on passing his private pilot checkride!

April 4, 2018

Mini-Max Motivation

Homebuilding, Member Stories

Losing weight, learning to fly, and building an airplane are all difficult things to do. Brian Lloyd did all three at once to follow his dreams of flight.

March 27, 2018March 29, 2018

Cylinder Work and Courage

Homebuilding, Member Stories

A pilot’s wife shares how she developed the courage to help maintain the couple’s homebuilt RV-7.

March 22, 2018April 4, 2018

EAA Air Academy Grad Launches Aviation Business

Member Stories

One success story of how a Young Eagles flight and a journey to the EAA Air Academy launched an aviation career.

March 20, 2018March 26, 2018

EAA Member Organizes Bud Anderson Visit for Local Airport

Chapters, Member Stories

An EAA member in Fresno set up a first-class experience for legendary triple ace Bud Anderson.

March 14, 2018March 15, 2018

EAA Air Academy Grad Follows in Father’s Footsteps at FBO

Member Stories

EAA Air Academy graduate takes over his father’s FBO after a fondly remembered time in Oshkosh.

March 13, 2018

Arkansas Tango

Homebuilding, Member Stories

A member shares the story of his homebuilt Tango.

March 8, 2018March 8, 2018

The Vashon Aircraft Ranger 7

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Dynon founder John Torode, EAA 1213461, thinks that most airplanes are too expensive. Instead of complaining about it, he started a new company that has designed and built a brand ... Read more

February 28, 2018April 4, 2018

From One Air Academy to Another

Member Stories

One EAA Air Academy attendee went on to attend the U.S. Air Force Academy.

February 27, 2018

John Corneal’s Subsonex

Homebuilding, Member Stories

John Corneal really wanted to fly a jet, so he responded in true EAA fashion: He built one.

February 15, 2018

Ben Van Handel – Private Pilot Checkride Milestone

Member Stories, Milestones, Youth & Young Eagles

Ben gave a special Young Eagles flight after passing his checkride.

February 14, 2018February 14, 2018

EAA Air Academy grad shares aviation with the next generation

Member Stories

An Air Academy grad now shares aviation with youth at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.

February 8, 2018

Dick Campbell to Present on Battle of Midway

EAA Museum, History, Honoring The Past, Member Stories

Historian Dick Campbell will present on the Battle of Midway, which was a critical victory for the U.S. during World War II.

February 5, 2018February 8, 2018

Last Place Won Concorde Flight for Air Academy Grad

Member Stories

An EAA Air Academy graduate recalls how he won a coveted flight on the Concorde.

February 1, 2018

Unchecked Aggression

Homebuilding, Member Stories, Why We Fly

Everyone customizes their homebuilt a little. Bill O’Neil, EAA 367019, doesn’t know the meaning of the word “little.” Get the full story of the truly unique Berkut 360 that he ... Read more

January 30, 2018

Georgia Sonex

Homebuilding, Member Stories

While serving in the U.S. Army Special Forces in Afghanistan in 2002 and 2003, I promised myself that I would start on my lifelong dream of building my own airplane ... Read more

January 29, 2018

A Budding Journalist’s Report on EAA Air Academy’s Early Days

Member Stories

Attending the EAA Air Academy was another fun assignment for one lifelong aviation enthusiast and journalist.

January 24, 2018January 24, 2018

How Three High Schoolers Won EAA’s Founder’s Innovation Prize

AirVenture, Member Stories

The competition’s 2017 winners proved a great idea can come from anyone.

January 23, 2018

EAA Air Academy Turns Flight-Loving Youth into Professional Pilot

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

The EAA Air Academy sprung one young EAAer into a future as a professional pilot and homebuilder.

January 18, 2018

Sporty’s CEO Flies 200th Young Eagle

Member Stories, Milestones, Youth & Young Eagles

Michael Wolf, EAA Lifetime 460022, flew 27 Young Eagles in 2017 to meet a big milestone.

January 15, 2018January 18, 2018

Western Odyssey in C-FJNJ

Member Stories, Why We Fly

One member’s cross-country Canadian flight experience in a CH 750.

January 11, 2018January 10, 2018

Replicating the Original Breezy

Member Stories, Ultralights

Rob Unger, EAA 585561, bought this airplane a few years ago to honor his late father Carl, EAA 25215, co-creator of the Breezy.

January 4, 2018January 4, 2018

From a Baby Ace to a Tri-Motor

Honoring The Past, Member Stories, Vintage

A member recalls how his personal aviation journey intertwined with EAA and a few of its airplanes.

December 21, 2017

Aviation Vacation

Member Stories

EAA’s staff photographer shares the aviation photos he took on a recent vacation to Texas.

December 13, 2017

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring – Georgia Baby Lakes

Aerobatics, Member Stories

In the summer of 2016, Bill Walker, owner of Golden Isles Aviation and project organizer, approached the membership of EAA Chapter 905 to see if it would take on the ... Read more

December 7, 2017

SkyRanger Partnership Provides Affordable Way to Fly

Chapters, Member Stories

An EAA member’s airplane partnership keeps costs down.

December 7, 2017December 7, 2017

Flying the Yosemite Valley in an Open-Cockpit Gyroplane

Member Stories, Why We Fly

An EAA member shares his memorable flight over one of our country’s national parks.

December 7, 2017

Tractor Parts and Humble Pie

Member Stories, Why We Fly

A bush pilot revisits a flight that brought with it a memorable learning experience.

November 30, 2017November 30, 2017

EAA Member Flies 1,000 Young Eagles in Minnesota

Member Stories, Milestones, Why We Fly, Youth & Young Eagles

This Young Eagles pilot will find a way to give a flight to any kid who asks.

November 22, 2017November 22, 2017

EAA Member Tim Cone Wins 2017 Air Race 1 World Cup

Member Stories, Milestones

Tim Cone, EAA 374465, won the Gold Final of the Air Race 1 World Cup 2017 on Sunday.

November 21, 2017November 21, 2017

From the Lowest to the Highest to the Busiest

Member Stories, Why We Fly

As he was planning to fly his Bonanza to Oshkosh, Tom Snider had an idea.

November 7, 2017

Chapter 344 Founder Earns Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award

Chapters, Member Stories, Milestones

Clayton Wilhelm’s involvement in aviation goes far beyond 50 years of safe flying.

October 23, 2017October 26, 2017

Madeline Patterson – Solo Milestone

Member Stories, Milestones, Youth & Young Eagles

Sixteen-year-old Madeline aims high for a future in aviation.

October 19, 2017

Rachel Senft – Solo Milestone

Member Stories, Milestones, Youth & Young Eagles

Soloing an aircraft is just one of 17-year-old Rachel’s many accomplishments.

October 18, 2017October 19, 2017

EAA’s The Green Dot – Founder’s Innovation Prize Winners

Member Stories, Podcast, Youth & Young Eagles

On the latest episode of EAA’s The Green Dot podcast, the crew was joined by Thomas Baron and Justin Zhou, two of the winners of the 2017 Founder’s Innovation Prize.

October 5, 2017October 5, 2017

Just One More Thing

Member Stories, Why We Fly

A little bucket-list flying while finding EAA stories in America’s breadbasket.

September 28, 2017September 27, 2017

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring: Our Magic Carpet – New Mexico Velocity

Homebuilding, Member Stories, Why We Fly

The 20 year journey to completing the New Mexico Velocity.

September 27, 2017October 5, 2017

Olivia Cardwell – A Day of Milestones

Member Stories, Milestones

Congratulations to Olivia Cardwell, EAA 1259093, who received her private pilot certificate with single-engine, multi-engine, and instrument ratings on her 17th birthday.

September 19, 2017October 5, 2017

Ben Van Handel – Solo Milestone

Member Stories, Milestones, Youth & Young Eagles

Congratulations to Ben Van Handel, EAA 1145612, who soloed in a Cessna 172 on Saturday, September 9 after spending the summer interning with EAA’s Young Eagles program.

September 14, 2017September 14, 2017

EAA Pulls to Honor Veterans

Member Stories

Twenty EAA employees represented the organization at the Appleton International Airport September 9 to participate in a uniquely exciting competition: to see which of 18 teams could pull an Airbus ... Read more

September 12, 2017September 11, 2017

An Act of Kindness, Returned

AirVenture, Member Stories

When 17-year-old Camron Mitchell left an F-4 Phantom model on the wing of a retired fighter pilot’s Mooney M20 at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2017, he expected that the random act ... Read more

August 30, 2017August 30, 2017

Young Eagle Helps EAA Build AirCam

Homebuilding, Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

Fourteen-year-old Alan Palmer hopes to apply what he learned to his own homebuilding project.

August 23, 2017

The Best Seat in the Sky

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Viewing the solar eclipse from an RV-6A at 12,000 feet.

August 23, 2017

Double Debonair

Member Stories

An EAA member scales down his 1962 Debonair.

July 30, 2017

Granting Wishes at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2017

AirVenture, Member Stories

Each year at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, a group of families from the Make-A-Wish foundation get to attend the fly-in for a full, Only-in-Oshkosh experience. This year EAA hosted five families ... Read more

July 30, 2017

First AirVenture at 99 Years Old and Looking Forward to Next

AirVenture, Member Stories

By Frederick A. Johnsen Orville Rogers spent his first 99 years not attending AirVenture. Now he has, and plans to return next year. “It took me 99 years to get ... Read more

July 25, 2017

A Maule Comes Home

Member Stories, Vintage, Why We Fly

You don’t need to know her last name to realize Susan Maule, granddaughter of STOL aircraft pioneer B.D. Maule, has aviation in her blood.

July 25, 2017July 25, 2017

50th Anniversary of Ann Pellegreno’s Earhart Flight

AirVenture, Honoring The Past, Member Stories

Pioneer for women aviators, Ann Holtgren Pellegreno, EAA Lifetime 11853, will celebrate the 50th anniversary of her round-the-world flight that retraced Amelia Earhart’s path at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2017.

July 24, 2017

‘Pay-It-Forward’ Cub Made It to Oshkosh

AirVenture, Learning to Fly, Member Stories, Milestones

Dozens of Piper Cubs landed as a group at Wittman Regional Airport Sunday morning in celebration of the type’s 80th anniversary, including one flown by 14-year-old Kyle Carden with help ... Read more

July 13, 2017

Three Engines, Three Generations

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Dave Hirt of Chapter 1247 shares the story of a special flight for Tri-Motor pilot Tom Leahy.

July 11, 2017

Mechanix Illustrated Baby Ace Replica

Member Stories

By Christopher E. Lehner, EAA 1175034 What a happy day it was when Bob Mohr of EAA Chapter 640 in Wausau, Wisconsin, said I would be the new owner of ... Read more

July 11, 2017

Christina Larson – Commercial Glider Milestone

Member Stories, Milestones

Christina earned her commercial glider rating two years after her first glider flight.

June 28, 2017June 28, 2017

Caroline Dougherty – Solo Milestone

Member Stories, Milestones, Youth & Young Eagles

Caroline soloed her father’s 1918 Curtiss Jenny and a Taylor E-2 Cub on her 16th birthday.

June 25, 2017June 23, 2017

EAA Chapter Helps a Young Eagle Achieve Her Dream

Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth & Young Eagles

“Walking into Chapter 790 was like hitting the lottery for a kid.”

June 22, 2017June 21, 2017

The Family Aeronca

Honoring The Past, Member Stories

One could say Thomas C. Anderson Sr. was a pioneer in farming-related aviation.

June 20, 2017

Getting Your Significant Other Into Aviation

Member Stories, Why We Fly

By Jared McQuade I have an unhealthy love for aviation. It has shaped my entire life. Whether it was going to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh every year since 1998, going to ... Read more

June 12, 2017

From RC to ATC

Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth & Young Eagles

For many EAAers, an interest in general aviation is in their blood. Mario Rosales, however, developed a fascination on his own at a young age.

June 8, 2017June 9, 2017

Rarified Air

Honoring The Past, Member Stories

An EAA member photographs EAA’s Boeing B-17 Aluminum Overcast as it flew over Olympia and the capitol building.

June 6, 2017

Like Grandfather, Like Grandson

Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth & Young Eagles

Sometimes love of aviation skips a generation, which is exactly how 18-year-old Tyler Barry got the flying bug.

June 5, 2017

EAA Volunteer Turns 100

Member Stories

John Schram, EAA 846909, who volunteers at Pioneer Airport behind the EAA Aviation Museum in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, will turn 100 years old on June 12.

June 2, 2017June 22, 2017

Danielle Olson – Solo Milestone

Member Stories, Milestones, Youth & Young Eagles

Congratulations to 16-year-old Danielle Olson, EAA 784715, who soloed Memorial Day weekend after nearly lifelong preparation for the moment. Danielle’s aviation journey began with a flight at just 5 weeks ... Read more

May 28, 2017May 26, 2017

The Magic of Flight

Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth & Young Eagles

Ben Bushnell shares how Young Eagles lit a passion for aviation in his life.

May 24, 2017May 23, 2017

The First 11

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

Karl Garman, EAA Lifetime 397981, was one of the first Young Eagles to receive a flight when the program kicked off in 1992.

May 24, 2017May 30, 2017

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring – Washington Glasair Sportsman

Homebuilding, Member Stories, Why We Fly

How this Sportsman kit was built as part of Glasair’s annual Build-a-Plane challenge.

May 22, 2017June 22, 2017

Brian Jones – Solo Milestone

Member Stories, Milestones, Why We Fly

Brian Jones, EAA 1216827, soloed April 9 after being inspired to pursue his pilot certificate at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2016.

May 18, 2017May 18, 2017

Is an EAA Lifetime Member Pilot a Hero?

Member Stories, Why We Fly

Mark Hanson recounts his life changing experience volunteering as a pilot on one special and critical Patient Airlift Services trip.

May 18, 2017

Adventurous AirCam

Member Stories, Why We Fly

The Lockwood AirCam was purpose-built to be a camera platform to capture photos and video over some of the harshest terrain in the world, and now it’s a popular kit-built ... Read more

May 16, 2017June 1, 2017

EAA’s The Green Dot – Charlie Precourt, NASA Astronaut

Honoring The Past, Member Stories, Podcast

This week we welcome Charlie Precourt. Charlie is on EAA’s board of directors and is the vice president and general manager of Propulsion Systems Division ... Read more

May 16, 2017May 18, 2017

Overcoming Obstacles

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

Since Minjae Kim fell in love with with aviation in third grade, he made it his mission to learn English so he could become a pilot.

May 16, 2017May 19, 2017

Flying EAA’s Spirit of St. Louis

Honoring The Past, Member Stories, Why We Fly

On May 10, EAA’s flying Spirit of St. Louis replica made its season debut at the organization’s annual Fly Your Plane to Work day. I had the chance to fly ... Read more

May 15, 2017

Sophia Shay – Solo Milestone

Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth & Young Eagles

Young Eagle and EAA volunteer Sophia Shay, EAA 292424, recently completed her first solo on her 16th birthday.

May 11, 2017

Artist John Stahr Restores Nose Art on EAA’s B-17

Air Tours, Chapters, Honoring The Past, Member Stories, Warbirds

Well-known experimental aircraft painter John Stahr, EAA 714251, recently volunteered his time restoring the nose art on EAA’s B-17.

May 10, 2017June 22, 2017

Jack Maechtle – Private Pilot Milestone

Member Stories, Milestones, Youth & Young Eagles

Congratulations to 18-year-old Jack Maechtle, EAA 1120742, who transitioned from sport pilot to private pilot on May 2.

May 9, 2017May 9, 2017

Handmade and Hammered Out

Honoring The Past, Member Stories, Vintage

This splendid 1936 Ryan Sport Trainer stopped countless passersby in their tracks as it shimmered under the sun in front of the VAA Red Barn at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2016. ... Read more

May 9, 2017May 9, 2017

Gearing Up for my Glider Solo

Member Stories, Milestones, Youth & Young Eagles

Ryan Elliott, son of EAA staffer Sean Elliott, EAA 520528, recounts accomplishing his first glider solo May 1.

May 8, 2017May 8, 2017

Spread the Word

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

Growing up in Tampa, Florida, Judd Hill’s earliest experiences with aviation were with the SUN ’n FUN International Fly-In & Expo in nearby Lakeland, which is where he eventually received ... Read more

May 3, 2017May 2, 2017

Overcoming Fear

Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth & Young Eagles

EAA’s Young Eagles program helped Brandon Brown, EAA 1229004, overcome fears and set career goals.

May 2, 2017May 2, 2017

Someone You Should Know

Member Stories

An EAA member recounts one of the very special people he helped introduce to aviation.

May 1, 2017May 1, 2017

Chapter 690’s Youth Program Celebrates First Solo

Chapters, Member Stories, Milestones, Youth & Young Eagles

EAA Chapter 690 is celebrating the first solo of any participant in its youth aviation program.

April 25, 2017June 22, 2017

Madison Malcomb – Solo Milestone

Member Stories, Milestones, Youth & Young Eagles

Congratulations to Young Eagle Madison Malcomb, EAA 1207213, who soloed on her 16th birthday on April 19 in an experimental RV-12 after just 10 hours of instruction.

April 24, 2017April 21, 2017

It Runs in the Family

Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth & Young Eagles

Twenty-two-year-old William C. Buck III got more from his father and grandfather than a family name, he also got a love of aviation.

April 20, 2017

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring – Cross-Country to Canada: New Jersey Van’s RV-12

Homebuilding, Member Stories, Why We Fly

By Brent Connelly, EAA 874578 For many of us, building and then flying our own homebuilt aircraft is one of those life-changing events that ranks up there with the birth of ... Read more

April 19, 2017June 1, 2017

EAA’s The Green Dot – John Monnett of Sonex Aircraft

Homebuilding, Honoring The Past, Member Stories, Podcast, Why We Fly

This week we welcome John Monnett, a multi-thousand-hour private pilot with both glider and float plane ratings and an A&P mechanic, who discusses his many designs and the history of ... Read more

April 18, 2017

Airline Pilot Thanks Young Eagles Mentors

Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth & Young Eagles

Joe Coraggio, EAA Lifetime 563242, got his first ride in a general aviation aircraft just one year after the Young Eagles program began.

April 13, 2017April 13, 2017

Then and Now: Celebrating 30 Years as a Pilot

Member Stories, Milestones, Why We Fly, Youth & Young Eagles

Hal Bryan remembers his first passengers after flying Young Eagles on the 30th anniversary of his private checkride.

April 13, 2017June 22, 2017

Russell Swartzfager – Private Pilot Milestone

Member Stories, Milestones

Congratulations to Russell Swartzfager, EAA 1161378, who passed his private pilot checkride on February 28 out of the Crystal River Airport (KCGC) in Florida.

April 11, 2017

From Young Eagle to the Pylons at Reno

Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth & Young Eagles

Tom McNerney’s introduction to aviation was much more humble than one might expect looking at his race plane Unleashed.

April 8, 2017June 22, 2017

Hal Bryan – First Pilots N Paws Flight Milestone

Member Stories, Milestones, Why We Fly

Congratulations to EAA staffer Hal Bryan, EAA 638979, for completing his first Pilots N Paws rescue flight on November 12 with his wife, Muffy. Hal flew from Oshkosh to Jasper ... Read more

April 4, 2017April 5, 2017

A Pillar of Our Chapter

Chapters, Member Stories, Why We Fly

At the heart of this story is aviator Dick Pingrey, a force of nature from Selah, Washington, and his last two airplane projects he whipped into completion.

March 31, 2017June 22, 2017

Brad Hahn – Solo Milestone

Member Stories, Milestones

Congratulations to Chapter 444 President Brad Hahn, EAA 1098593, who successfully completed his first solo March 28 at the Waupaca County Airport. “Thanks to everyone that has helped me along this ... Read more

March 30, 2017March 31, 2017

The Ups and Downs of First Flights

Member Stories, Why We Fly, Youth & Young Eagles

By Justin Inman, EAA 1057655 Flying the first flight in an experimental airplane is unlike anything else in the world. The mix of emotions, physical senses, extreme focus, and heightened ... Read more

March 22, 2017

Two Flight Jackets and One Twist of Fate

History, Member Stories

By John Slemp, EAA 837033 Coincidence: a remarkable concurrence of events or circumstances without apparent causal connection. This definition is restated here as it is central to the story I’m ... Read more

March 16, 2017June 22, 2017

Edward L. Hasch Jr. – Master Mechanic Award Milestone

Member Stories, Milestones

Congratulations to Edward L. Hasch Jr., EAA 237979, who was presented with the FAA’s Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award on March 8 at the Nashville FSDO. Ed spent 46 years ... Read more

March 15, 2017March 15, 2017

What Our Members Are Building/Restoring – Summer Breeze

Homebuilding, Member Stories, Ultralights

By Whitney Coyle, EAA 736036, New Smyrna Beach, Florida Florida Breezy My Breezy journey began back in 2008 with my first trip to AirVenture as a fresh A&P certificate at ... Read more

March 10, 2017

2 Millionth Young Eagle Solos

Member Stories, Milestones, Youth & Young Eagles

Many congratulations to EAA’s 2 millionth Young Eagle, Jodie Gawthrop, EAA 1108302, who completed her first solo on March 9, less than a year after her flight with former Young ... Read more

March 9, 2017March 9, 2017

Searey Solo Around the World

Member Stories, Milestones, Why We Fly

Michael Smith, EAA 1001669, of Williamstown in Victoria, Australia, recently finished a flight that most of us could only dream about: a trip around the world in his Searey named ... Read more

March 8, 2017March 9, 2017

Young Eagle Pursues CFI Certificate

Chapters, Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

In celebration of the 25th anniversary of the EAA Young Eagles program in 2017, we’re featuring 25 Young Eagles whose stories inspire and exemplify the impact of the program. By ... Read more

March 2, 2017March 2, 2017

Learning to Fly in the Late Fifties

History, Member Stories, Vintage, Why We Fly

By Hans Schroeder, EAA 43437 We all agree (I think) that once you catch the bug, flying never lets go of you no matter how long you abstain. And so, after ... Read more

February 20, 2017February 20, 2017

Young Eagles Helped Airman Get His Wings

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

In celebration of the 25th anniversary of the EAA Young Eagles program in 2017, we’re featuring 25 Young Eagles whose stories inspire and exemplify the impact of the program. February ... Read more

February 10, 2017February 21, 2017

Airport Renamed to Honor EAA Member

Member Stories

February 9, 2017 – The pilots and greater community of Payson, Arizona, wanted to find a way to honor Rich Henry, EAA 553213, for his lifelong contributions to aviation in the ... Read more

February 8, 2017June 22, 2017

Nolan Hart – Private Pilot Milestone

Chapters, Member Stories, Milestones, Youth & Young Eagles

February 8, 2017 – Congratulations to 17-year-old Nolan Hart, EAA 1139352, who successfully completed his checkride and became a private pilot on January 14. “Lifting off the ground for the ... Read more

February 4, 2017February 28, 2017

The Stories of Those Flying EAA’s B-17 Aluminum Overcast – Col. Richard Bushong

Air Tours, History, Honoring The Past, Member Stories, Warbirds

The B-17G has a remarkable story. One filled with daring missions and personal sacrifice. More than just an airplane, the B-17 is living history that holds a remarkable connection to ... Read more

February 4, 2017March 30, 2017

From the Hangar Floor:
World War I Airplane Comes Home for Restoration

From The Hangar Floor, History, Member Stories, Warbirds

In the early 2000s, when Don Funke, EAA 652318, and a group of friends were discussing the history of aviation in their hometown of Ithaca, New York, they could only ... Read more

February 3, 2017February 20, 2017

Young Eagle, EAA Staff Member Comes Full Circle

Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

In celebration of the 25th anniversary of the EAA Young Eagles program in 2017, we’re featuring 25 Young Eagles whose stories inspire and exemplify the impact of the program. David ... Read more

February 2, 2017March 27, 2017

Brandon Brown – Commercial Rating Written Exam Milestone

Member Stories, Milestones, Youth & Young Eagles

Congratulations to 18-year-old Brandon Brown, EAA 1229004, who in the past year alone has earned his instrument rating, a commercial drone pilot license, and began working on his commercial rating. ... Read more

January 26, 2017March 27, 2017

Steve Shuter – Private Pilot Milestone

Member Stories, Milestones

Congratulations to Steve Shuter, EAA 1105380, who passed his checkride in April 2016 at Orlando Apopka Airport (X04) in Apopka, Florida. Steve successfully completed the checkride on his first attempt, ... Read more

January 19, 2017February 28, 2017

The Spirit of Madison

History, Honoring The Past, Member Stories, Warbirds

January 19, 2017 – During World War II, thanks in large part to the pervasive patriotism of the day, it was a common occurrence for communities to raise funds to purchase ... Read more

January 12, 2017June 22, 2017

Alex Dietrich – Private Pilot Milestone

Member Stories, Milestones

January 12, 2017 – Congratulations to Alex Dietrich, grandson of Walter Dietrich, EAA 55519, who on January 4 became a third-generation pilot after passing his private checkride. After graduating high school ... Read more

January 5, 2017February 28, 2017

A Legacy Continues

History, Honoring The Past, Member Stories, Warbirds

December 29, 2016 – EAA’s main goal is to grow participation in aviation. It is able to do so thanks to people who are willing to help create the pathway ... Read more

January 5, 2017March 7, 2017

A Love Reunited

Homebuilding, Member Stories

By Emily Noack, EAA 848998, Museum Service Rep December 22, 2016 – For EAAers in the Oshkosh area Tracy Noack’s hangar is the Sunday morning destination. It is a meeting ... Read more

January 5, 2017June 22, 2017

Isaac Ericson – Solo Milestone

Member Stories, Milestones

January 5, 2017 – Congratulations to Isaac Ericson, EAA 1100893, who created a family tradition on his 16th birthday December 3 by soloing in the same Stits Playboy his father once ... Read more

December 29, 2016June 22, 2017

Declan Steinke – Solo Milestone

Chapters, Homebuilding, Member Stories, Milestones, Youth & Young Eagles

December 29, 2016 – Congratulations to 16-year-old Declan Steinke, EAA 1112757, who soloed November 15 in the RV-12 Falcon 1 he helped build. Declan received his first Young Eagles flight two ... Read more

December 21, 2016February 3, 2017

Congratulations Lt. Col. Kenneth Sines!

Chapters, Member Stories, Youth & Young Eagles

December 21, 2016 – Congratulations to Lt. Col. Kenneth Sines, EAA 453045, who flew his 1,800th Young Eagle at Chapter 677’s November 26 Young Eagles rally. Ken is heavily involved in ... Read more

December 15, 2016March 27, 2017

Three Solos, One day

Member Stories, Milestones, Warbirds, Youth & Young Eagles

December 15, 2016 – When he turned 16 on December 1, Tom Tippin had the opportunity to do something many aviators only dream of: He soloed a Piper J-3 Cub, ... Read more

December 1, 2016February 28, 2017

From Young Eagle to Young Eagles Pilot

Chapters, Member Stories, Milestones, Why We Fly, Youth & Young Eagles

By Owen Leipelt, EAA 1102131, EAA Chapter 62 Vice President December 1, 2016 – In 2013, when I was 13 years old, I took my first Young Eagles flight with ... Read more

December 1, 2016February 28, 2017

Saving a Tiger Moth

History, Honoring The Past, Member Stories, Warbirds

December 1, 2016 – For years Liz Matzelle, EAA 576594, dreamed of owning an airplane. Little did she know that the adventure she would go on would result in her ... Read more

November 17, 2016October 20, 2017

Winging It West For Labor Day

Member Stories, Why We Fly

VFR flying demands a bizarre mix of meticulous planning and a penchant for spontaneity. I learned that over Labor Day weekend when my girlfriend and I set out one morning ... Read more

October 27, 2016February 3, 2017

From Eagle Flight Recipient to Current Pilot

Chapters, Homebuilding, Member Stories, Milestones

October 27, 2016 – Bill Wemhoff, EAA 1167924, of Herndon, Virginia, earned his pilot certificate nearly 35 years ago in Nebraska but hadn’t flown since. Life got in the way and ... Read more