Aviation enthusiasts will soon be gathering in northeastern Wisconsin.
There's too much to mention about the World's Greatest Aviation Celebration in Oshkosh. Dick Knapinski (nuh-PIHN-skee) with the Experimental Aircraft Association's AirVenture says, for starters, you can learn about the next generation of space tourism from Virgin's Sir Richard Branson.
"The White Knight Two space tourism carrier vehicle."
The unmanned Predator B has already landed at Wittman Airport. It's the first appearance for the spy plane.
And, Knapinski says a super huge airplane will makes its first North American public airshow appearance.
"The world's largest passenger jetliner — the Airbus A380 ."
Crowd favorite Harrison Ford returns to the home of the Young Eagles program, but the Indiana Jones star won't be the only hero on the grounds. U-S Airways "Miracle on the Hudson" pilots are on tap.
"Sully Sullenberger and Jeff Skiles will be here."
There will be 1,000 forums, workshops and seminars, more than 2,500 show-planes, over 700 exhibitors, and Knapinski says, you'll see aircraft from World War II.
"The Warbirds, there'll be up to 400 of them."
Knapinski says visitors will enjoy many upgrades, including superior wi-fi coverage. The 57th annual convention kicks off Monday night with a concert.
"We're very happy to welcome the Doobie Brothers."
More than 500,000 people are expected to attend AirVenture over the course of the week.
NOTE: The convention runs from Monday, July 27th through Sunday, August 2nd.
AUDIO: Jackie Johnson report (1:28 mp3)
