ALL-STAR CAST WILL LIGHT UP SKY AS NIGHT AIR SHOW RETURNS FOR EAA AIRVENTURE 2011 #OSH11

Aerobatics accompanied by pyrotechnics, fireworks highlight event’s final evening

      EAA AVIATION CENTER, OSHKOSH, Wis. — (Jan. 12, 2011) — Fresh off last year’s extremely popular debut, the Night Air Show and Fireworks with the “Wall of Fire” return on Saturday, July 30, to light up the sky on the final evening at EAA AirVenture 2011. The 59th annual edition of “The World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration” will be held July 25-31 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh.

      The inaugural Night Air Show at EAA AirVenture 2010 drew tens of thousands to the flightline after dusk, where they were dazzled by a stunning display of precision aerobatics and pyrotechnics from many of the world’s top air show performers. Start time is approximately 8:45 p.m., with fireworks to follow at 9:30 p.m.

      Several of them, including the return of the AeroShell Aerobatic Team (T-6s), Bob Carlton (Jet sailplane), Gene Soucy (Showcat), and Matt Younkin (Twin Beech) along with addition of Steve Oliver (Chipmunk), are scheduled to perform their signature maneuvers choreographed to pyrotechnics and music in 2011.

      “Judging by the rave reviews it received in 2010, the Night Air Show exceeded all expectations,” said Tom Poberezny, EAA and AirVenture chairman. “It instantly became a signature, must-see attraction at AirVenture, and the perfect way to celebrate the final evening of what will be a week filled with highlights.”

       Following the Night Air Show, performers will be available for a meet and greet alongside their aircraft. Additional activities surrounding the Night Air Show will be announced in coming weeks through the event’s extensive website at www.airventure.org.

       Several top-level attractions and events will also commemorate the Centennial of Naval Aviation at AirVenture 2011, which has been classified a Tier 1 event by the U.S. Navy for its year-long celebration. Special themed days include “Tribute to Bob Hoover” Day on Tuesday, July 26, Navy Day on Wednesday, July 27, and “Tribute to Burt Rutan” Day on Thursday, July 28.

       Advance purchase admission tickets and camping for AirVenture 2011 are now available at a discounted rate at www.airventure.org/tickets.

      EAA AIRVENTURE OSHKOSH is The World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration and EAA’s yearly membership convention. Additional EAA AirVenture information, including advance ticket and camping purchase, is available online at www.airventure.org. EAA members receive lowest prices on admission rates. For more information on EAA and its programs, call 1-800-JOIN-EAA (1-800-564-6322) or visit www.eaa.org. Immediate news is available at www.twitter.com/EAAupdate.