Special Parking, Courses, Speakers Will Review Half A Century of RV-Series Passion

The RV series of homebuilt aircraft have a special occasion at Oshkosh this year, as the 69th EAA fly-in convention coincides with 50 years on the market. The RV-3 debuted in 1972 as a lightweight, robust offering that eventually grew to become a defining force in the kit and light sport plane market. 

Richard VanGrunsven's baby will be a major player in this year's AirVenture festivities this July, with special Fan's RV parking areas, multiple forums, workshops, and deep dives into the aircraft, as well as participation in the air shows. The company's growth has led to a range of RV-derived aircraft, like the latest RV-12 and 14. The sale of completed SLSA's has further broadened Van's reach, gaining entry into the world of flight training and club operations with a factory-made aircraft that combines the best of light kit planes with modern technology. In a world of increasingly expensive legacy aircraft designs, an RV-14 with the same glass panel avionics and fuel-sipping engine are a great way to bring in the next generation of aviators, and sales numbers seem to agree. 

Every year, more than 400 RV kits of all stripes are shipped to builders around the world from the Van's factory in Aurora, Oregon - but that's just the start, as the company hopes to ramp up production to meet the increased post-pandemic demand. The boon in general aviation sales has been good to Van's, and their unique pilot-centered, enthusiast vibe has earned them a lot of goodwill in the aviation community. The EAA has always been close to Van's and the RV, being the largest org in the nation devoted to experimental and sport aircraft. Their assistance, classes, and education have tutored many a stumped builder in their work. 

Charlie Becker, homebuilt community manager, described the RV as a keystone of the kit market, saying “While aircraft kits have existed for more than a century, it was 50 years ago that Richard VanGrunsven introduced a model that would move the homebuilt movement into an age where kit aircraft would become dominant. Today, more than 11,000 completed RV models are the direct descendants of that first RV-3 in 1972. We invite all of them to be present at Oshkosh as we celebrate a half-century of success.”

FMI: www.eaa.org, Van's AirVenture Pre-Registration