7 Reasons We Love the Year Round Oshkosh Aviation Scene
When people think of the Oshkosh aviation scene, most picture one incredible week in July when AirVenture turns Wittman Regional Airport into the busiest airport in the world. But the truth is, for pilots who live and fly here, Oshkosh is just as exciting during the other 50 and a half weeks of the year. From great facilities to a strong community, here are seven reasons we love flying in Oshkosh year-round.
Oshkosh Aviation the Other 50 and a Half Weeks
1. Multiple Runway Options for Safety and Versatility
The runways at KOSH are well-maintained and offer several options for takeoffs and landings. This is a huge advantage for flight training and everyday flying, especially when winds shift. Pilots can practice different approaches without having to leave the airport, making training efficient and safe.
2. Year-Round Class D Airspace for Better Training
Oshkosh is a Class D airport all year long, which is a big plus for student pilots. From the first lesson, you’ll communicate with air traffic control, building strong radio skills, situational awareness, and confidence for flying into busier airports later in your flying career.
3. Friendly and Professional Tower Controllers
The Oshkosh tower controllers are some of the best you’ll meet. They’re professional and always approachable. Whether you’re making your first solo flight or arriving from a cross-country trip, they treat every pilot with patience and respect. KOSH can get quite busy at times even when the whole world isn't flying into the airspace. The controllers always handle it well and make it a great environment for learning.
4. A Strong Local Aviation Community
Oshkosh Aviation isn’t just about airplanes...it’s about people. The local pilot community is welcoming and supportive, with instructors, mechanics, and aviation enthusiasts who love sharing knowledge. A simple trip to the airport often turns into a conversation that inspires your next flying adventure or at the very least leaves you with some new friends.
5. The Excitement of Calling Wittman Home
Every takeoff and landing at Wittman carries a sense of pride. This is the airport that thousands of pilots dream of flying into each summer. Even on a quiet winter afternoon, you can feel the history and passion that make Oshkosh famous worldwide.
6. Diverse Weather That Builds Better Pilots
Flying in Oshkosh means experiencing Wisconsin’s full range of weather. You’ll see snowy runways and crisp winter skies, breezy spring days, hazy summer afternoons, and clear autumn mornings. Training in these conditions creates versatile, well-rounded pilots who can handle more than just perfect weather.
7. EAA Headquarters and the Aviation Museum
Having the Experimental Aircraft Association right here is an incredible perk. The EAA Aviation Museum is open year-round, and local EAA chapters host events, workshops, and fly-ins that keep the aviation spirit alive all year. Visitors often stop by to experience Oshkosh without the AirVenture crowds, and that quieter atmosphere has its own charm. One additional benefit is the EAA Pilot Proficiency Center which offers year round oppotunties to become better pilots or just get some practice in one of their Redbird simulators.
Flying in Oshkosh Year-Round
The Oshkosh airport offers so much more than one week in July. With excellent runways, friendly controllers, controlled airspace, a supportive community, and a connection to one of the world’s greatest aviation events, Oshkosh is a pilot’s dream in every season. Whether you’re learning to fly, instructing, or just enjoying a local hop, there’s something special about flying here all year long. While we may pause our own flying here at Oshkosh Aviation during the annual fly-in, the activities pick right back up each year with a newfound excitement from all our Airventure experiences.
In the area and want to learn more about flying here in Oshkosh or start your own pilot journey? Contact Oshkosh Aviation to get started today.