The 57th annual EAA fly-in convention was held July 27-August 2 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, attracting more than 10,000 airplanes and a total attendance increase of 12 percent, to 578,000. Often called “aviation’s family reunion,” EAA AirVenture brings together the entire world of flight and welcomes aviation enthusiasts, businesses and policymakers from around the globe.

“Although people may recall specific highlights during the week, EAA AirVenture is also an accurate gauge of the current vitality and mood within the aviation community and industry,” said Tom Poberezny, EAA president and AirVenture chairman, who earlier this week called AirVenture 2009 “the best ever.”

“We’re pleased to note that aviation exhibitors reported solid to outstanding business during the week, as Oshkosh served as aviation’s ‘stimulus program’ that grew from the people involved instead of the government. Just as important, the ‘spirit of Oshkosh’ excites and motivates people regarding aviation and helps build momentum for the future.”

Several aircraft announcements and debuts took place at EAA AirVenture, including aircraft from such established companies as Piper and RotorWay International, as well as newer firms such as Tecnam, Yuneec, and ICON. In addition, numerous companies announced new aviation products and accessories during AirVenture week.

While the entire aviation community benefited from the success of EAA AirVenture 2009, EAA’s year-round programs and activities also received a boost from the event’s success. Proceeds from the annual event are used for EAA’s membership programs, government advocacy efforts and youth aviation education activities.

“When times are tough, people make choices,” Poberezny said. “They choose the places and things that are most important to them and this year, it was evident that Oshkosh is important to thousands of people. This is the place where the entire spectrum of aviation, from government policymakers and industry leaders to pilots and enthusiasts, comes together to celebrate the world of flight and creates solutions to our common challenges.”

Several aviation organizations joined EAA and its National Association of Flight Instructors affiliate in announcing the inaugural “International Learn To Fly Day” scheduled for May 15, 2010. This day will focus on introducing the world of flight to others and building the pilot population, which has dwindled by 25 percent over the past quarter century.

The nearly $4 million of site improvements introduced this year at EAA AirVenture were also well-received by the huge crowds. The site enhancements presented in 2009 were the first of many coming in future years aimed at upgrading the grounds in a variety of areas to benefit attendees, exhibitors and others.

“We were very pleased that the site improvements met with such overwhelmingly positive reaction,” Poberezny said. “The success of this year’s event allows EAA to look forward to more enhancements that will make the Oshkosh experience even better.”

Those projected improvements are scheduled to continue in all areas of the AirVenture site over the upcoming year, with specific details announced as they are finalized.

“2009 was a truly memorable year at Oshkosh, with the positive and energetic attitude evident throughout the grounds,” Poberezny said. “The success this year will be seen as a turning point for aviation, EAA and the unique event that is AirVenture.”