Flight Demos, Technology Forums Part Of Planned Oshkosh Activities

The innovation and technology of the emerging era of electric-powered aircraft will be a major part of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2010, the organization said Monday.  A full schedule of events throughout the week will highlight the advances and future promise of electric-powered aircraft as this "green" technology begins to secure a place in tomorrow's aviation world. Among the scheduled activities are afternoon showcase flights each day; evening flight demos; and displays and forums in AirVenture's Aviation Learning Center.

Yuneec Electric Airplane

"Hosting the pioneering technology of electric aircraft is a natural for EAA AirVenture, which has always been the annual showcase for what's new in the world of flight," said Tom Poberezny, EAA president and AirVenture chairman. "This area will play an increasing role in aviation in this century, and only at Oshkosh can people meet and hear from the innovators themselves and find out more about what it means for individual aircraft owners and pilots."

EAA is also inviting innovators and developers of the electric-powered aircraft to participate in forums and presentations at Oshkosh this year. A variety of innovators, from those with electric airplane concepts to those with active prototypes, are expected to be part of the activities.

Several electric-powered aircraft were on display at AirVenture last year from both American and international companies. While much of this technology is in its relative infancy, enthusiasm for this emerging segment of flight is growing quickly and attracting both scientists and investors to the possibilities.

EAA says it has been supporting electric-powered aircraft technology for several years. In 2008, EAA petitioned the Federal Aviation Administration to allow electric motors as powerplants for light-sport aircraft (LSA). The potential of such use in light aircraft will expand as innovations continue to improve the feasibility and economics of electric-powered flight.

The 58th annual edition of EAA AirVenture, "The World's Greatest Aviation Celebration," will be held at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh July 26-August 1.

FMI: www.airventure.org