Flying to Oshkosh? Sharpen Your Skills!

June 10, 2021 – While thousands of pilots are already planning their flights to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh next month, it’s been a minimum of nearly two years since the Oshkosh arrival procedures have been used. Just as with everyday flying skills, rust can build up because of the layoff.

“Everyone’s excited to get back to Oshkosh in 2021, but if you’re flying to Wittman Regional Airport, remember that we’ve all been away for two years. It’s essential that you’re as prepared in the cockpit as we are prepared to welcome you back,” said Sean Elliott, EAA’s vice president of advocacy and safety. “There are things pilots should be doing now to get themselves ready to make a safe, successful trip to Oshkosh.”

First: get the AirVenture 2021 NOTAM. This is required reading for any pilot heading to Oshkosh. There are some additions and changes since the 2019 version, especially with ATC-assignable transition points approaching Oshkosh from the west that will ease holding and congestion.

Also, get some time in the air. In particular, reacquaint yourself with your cross-country flying skills and working inside controlled airspace. While the Oshkosh procedures are unlike any other, a comfort level with higher levels of air traffic can help reduce any “pucker factor.”

Plan your trip to reduce the threat of “get there-itis.” Having an alternate plan helps with aeronautical decision making, especially if you need to divert during your flight or overnight.

Additional hints are available during a free June 23 EAA webinar titled Tips for Flying into EAA AirVenture 2021, as well as a June 30 webinar for ultralight and homebuilt rotorcraft pilots titled Ultralight/Homebuilt Rotorcraft Arrival Procedures - AirVenture 2021. Register at EAA.org/Webinars.

“In short, be prepared, be safe, and be ready for a great aviation reunion this year at Oshkosh,” Elliott said.