Southwest Airlines Bringing Independence One to AirVenture 2026

Southwest Airlines announced it will participate in EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 with its high-flying tribute to America’s semiquincentennial celebration, Independence One. This newly launched, freedom-flying Boeing 737 MAX 8 will visit the World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration on Wednesday, July 22, showcasing Southwest’s support of those who’ve given us the freedom to fly.

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, the 73rd EAA fly-in convention, is July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh.

The thousands of aviation enthusiasts who annually visit EAA AirVenture will get to see Independence One up close and personal as it carries Southwest Airlines employees who have served in the military and those with loved ones who have served, culminating in an impressive total of over 1,300 years of military service onboard.

“Independence One is a stunning, colorful tribute to our freedom as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary in 2026,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “It will undoubtedly be a big attraction and photo op during AirVenture, as EAA again brings together airplanes and people in a single location that is unmatched anywhere else in the world.”

Southwest is returning as a sponsor of WomenVenture, a conference aimed at inspiring and empowering women in aviation. Emily Estapa, managing director of Network Operations Control ATC Training and Standards at Southwest Airlines and a U.S. Air Force veteran, will be speaking at the WomenVenture forum on July 22. 

“When women come together, we’re able to support one another and share our journeys,” Estapa said. “That collective sense of belonging and visibility doesn’t just advance individual careers — it elevates the entire aviation industry.”

Keep an eye out for Independence One parked on Boeing Plaza on Wednesday, July 22.