Oshkosh to Host Pair of Military Demo Teams in First for History

The Italian Air Force's Frecce Tricolori is set to make its first Oshkosh appearance since 1986 when it shows up to this summer's EAA AirVenture Oshkosh.

The 71st edition of the Experimental Aircraft Association fly-in will be held from July 22-28 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The Italian team, technically referred to as the 313th Aerobatic Training Squadron, is scheduled to perform on Tuesday, July 23rd. It's a rare showing for the team, only the third time it's ever gone out on a North American Tour. Since the Tricolori's Canadian analogues will be there too, it marks a first for AirVenture as well: the first time two different military demonstration teams perform at Oshkosh. That's some rare eye candy for attendees this year, showing off the Team's multicolored smoke dischargers and Aermacchi MB-339PAN trainers. 

“It’s been nearly 40 years since we’ve welcomed these skilled Italian Air Force pilots to Oshkosh, and to have them here in 2024 adds an unprecedented dimension to this year’s fly-in,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “EAA AirVenture Oshkosh has always been an international event and the presence of Frecce Tricolori further confirms Oshkosh as the place for the aviation world’s annual family reunion.”

“With the Snowbirds highlighting our celebration of the Royal Canadian Air Force centennial, the numerous military jet demonstrations already committed, and now the Italian military aerobatic team joining us, 2024 will be an unforgettable year at Oshkosh,” Larsen said. “As we prepare for this year’s edition of The World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration, there’s much more to come as well.”

FMI: www.eaa.org/airventure