Vintage Aircraft Association at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh
Since the Vintage Aircraft Association (VAA) was founded in 1971 as the Antique/Classic Division, its members have demonstrated their love and respect for aviation's proud and colorful heritage. The group strives to achieve numerous goals: encouraging and aiding restoration of antique, classic, and contemporary category aircraft--including the construction, repair, maintenance, and preservation of vintage aircraft and engines; maintaining a library devoted to aviation history; improving aviation safety and education regarding these notable aircraft; and conducting forums, workshops and seminars for the vintage airplane enthusiast.
By definition, an Antique aircraft is defined as constructed by the original manufacturer (or licensee) on or prior to August 31, 1945. Classic aircraft were constructed from September 1, 1945 through 1955, while Contemporary aircraft now include those built from 1956 through 1970. Awards are presented to airplanes in all three categories at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh.
In many communities VAA members have formed local Chapters to share their enthusiasm for these special aircraft. Division members also receive Vintage Airplane magazine, the group's outstanding monthly publication. The magazine highlights the maintenance, operation, and restoration of vintage aircraft. It includes "how-to" articles, reports on aircraft restoration, historic articles, fly-ins, and much more.
If you're tired of just being an observer and want to be a part of the action, step right up to the VAA Volunteer Registration Booth adjacent to the Vintage entry archway, near the VAA Red Barn. You can volunteer and be part of the EAA experience. When you go home this year, you won't say, "I was at Oshkosh"; you'll say, "I was a part of Oshkosh!"
Other activities in the Vintage area include:
Tall Pines Café
You won’t want to miss this freshly cooked breakfast! It is located on the South end of Wittman Field, just north of the Ultralight runway. We position it there to fill the food need for our many campers on that end of the field. A tram is also available if you are coming from the North end of the field. Open daily 6:30 - 9:30 a.m.
Annual VAA Picnic
The VAA Picnic is Wednesday evening during AirVenture, at the EAA Nature Center Pavilion. The picnic is a great chance for VAA members and their guests to join for an evening of food and fellowship. Tram service from the VAA Red Barn to the picnic is available. Tickets are available at the VAA Red Barn Information Desk.
Annual Vintage Fly-Out
The fly-out is a chance for pilots and passengers to escape for the morning and enjoy breakfast and fellowship with residents of Shawano, Wisconsin--about 50 miles north of Oshkosh. By the way, PILOTS EAT FREE! Anyone with an airplane is welcome to join the fly-out. The fly-out takes place the Saturday morning of AirVenture. Check at the VAA Red Barn Information Desk for all the details.
Pioneer Interview Circle
Throughout the Convention VAA will be conducting "on-site" interviews with vintage aircraft owners, pilots, and aviation personalities. It's a chance to sit in the grass and hear stories of great pilots and airplanes.
The Vintage area also is the site of Convention Showplane Camping, where hundreds of EAA members, families, and friends from around the world set up an international community of people sharing a love of aviation.
The VAA Red Barn is also home to:
The Red Barn Store, where VAA's unique custom-made apparel is available for adults and children, along with high quality toys, artwork, and souvenirs. Show your VAA membership card and receive a 10 percent discount on your purchase.
The Vintage Information and Media Coordination Center, where information regarding VAA and its activities are available.
If you flew in and registered your aircraft, you can also pick up your participant plaque and mug at the VAA Red Barn.
Adjacent to the VAA Red Barn you'll find:
The Vintage Metal Shaping Workshop Tent, where volunteers share their skills and knowledge in the restoration and building of vintage aircraft;
The Type Club Tent, where representatives of many aircraft type clubs can answer questions about specific vintage aircraft, such as Aeroncas, Piper Cubs, Wacos, Bellancas, and many others;
The VAA Membership and Chapter Information Booth, conveniently located adjacent to the entry archway. VAA and EAA memberships are available along with information about VAA Chapters.
If you're interested in vintage airplanes, the EAA Vintage Aircraft Association is the only way to fly!
The financial support for the various AirVenture Oshkosh Vintage Red Barn programs is underwritten by the effort of the VAA’s annual Friends of the Red Barn program. Learn more about the Friends of the Red Barn and how you can help.