The breadth and depth of good works accomplished by general aviation pilots will be in the spotlight at AirVenture Oshkosh 2009, EAA announced this week. A weeklong “Fly for Life” program at next summer’s event will recognize those who fly to serve others. “Aviation is used to meet basic human needs and bring hope in so many ways, including medical and dental missions to remote regions of the world, famine relief, and a wide range of other humanitarian projects,” said Tom Poberezny, EAA president and AirVenture chairman. “We are looking forward to recognizing those people and organizations during EAA AirVenture 2009.” The Fly for Life program will highlight public-benefit aviation activities and mission-based flight operations, with EAA working with the Air Care Alliance and the International Association of Missionary Aviation to represent more than 200 organizations. Activities will include a major display adjacent to AeroShell Square, aircraft displays, numerous forums and presentations, an evening program, and other events. AirVenture 2009 will be held July 27-Aug. 2, at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wis.
Although many humanitarian organizations have been longtime participants at EAA AirVenture, the Fly for Life program marks the first time all these public-benefit and mission flight organizations have come together to highlight the ways that general aviation serves people worldwide. “There is an incredible story to tell of the hundreds of airplanes and thousands of dedicated people, including many, many EAA members, who generously devote themselves to using their flying abilities to make our world a better place,” said former EAA vice president Bob Warner, who is serving as the program’s volunteer chairman. “This is a story that we want to share not only with the aviation community at EAA AirVenture, but to the public that does not always understand the depth of aviation’s contribution to our world.” Groups interested in participating may contact Warner at bob@aviationlifestyle.com. The schedule of activities will be announced as it is finalized.
