Aviation recognized across the state during world’s largest air show
OSHKOSH, WI—Gov. Tony Evers proclaimed July 21-27, 2025 as Aviation Week in Wisconsin in recognition of the world’s largest aviation celebration. The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) AirVenture week takes place July 21-27 in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is eager to celebrate aviation along with aircraft enthusiasts from across the world.
In 2024, EAA AirVenture saw record-breaking numbers with 686,000 people in attendance, more than 10,000 aircraft arrivals at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh and other airports across east-central Wisconsin. According to the EAA, the event generated $170 million for the five counties in the Oshkosh region (Winnebago, Outagamie, Fond du Lac, Calumet and Brown). The event also boasted more than 850 commercial exhibitors and hosted international guests from 98 different countries.
“After last year’s record-setting totals, we’re excited once again to participate in EAA AirVenture week,” WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman said. “This annual event helps highlight WisDOT’s Bureau of Aeronautics’ commitment to strengthening Wisconsin’s aviation network. Our airports are crucial hubs that safely connect passengers to destinations and goods to markets which support local and global economies. WisDOT is proud to welcome all attendees to EAA AirVenture week in Oshkosh as we explore the fascinating history and future of aviation.”
In 2024, WisDOT’s Bureau of Aeronautics (BOA) received over $66 million in federal funding to complete 90 airport improvement projects. More than five million travelers used the eight commercial airports last year, highlighting the importance of strategic investments in our airports.
Attendees are encouraged to visit WisDOT’s BOA in Exhibit Hanger A in booths 1125 and 1126 during EAA AirVenture week to learn more about the Wisconsin airport system and the various aviation programs that are offered across the state.
Some highlights of the bureau include:
- The Aviation Careers Education (ACE) program promotes aviation, and space education, and provides students experiences in aviation related jobs. Because of the partnership between industry, schools, and government, WisDOT’s BOA can promote aviation/space education, including career opportunities, as well as assist employers in developing the next generation of skilled workers in aviation.
- Additionally, the Fly Wisconsin Airport Passport program promotes safety and education by encouraging recreational flight to all of Wisconsin’s public use airports. It also supports general aviation airports, area businesses and tourism. This is a collaborative program of WisDOT BOA and the Wisconsin Airport Management Association (WAMA).
- The latest edition of Wisconsin’s Aeronautical Chart includes tourism activities at Wisconsin airports, aviation events, aviation education, safety tips and other lines of business provided by WisDOT’s BOA. The chart remains a popular item to distribute at aviation events such as BOA’s Airport Operations and Land Use Seminar and the annual EAA AirVenture event. Visit WisDOT’s Wisconsin Aeronautical Chart website to view the online archive or order the current chart.
