 |  | | At the dedication ceremony for the renewed “Brown Arch” EAA President Tom Poberezny said the stone and wood arch, with its flower planters, embodies the spirit of camaraderie and community that sets AirVenture apart from other world-class shows. | |
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Visitors to the Experimental Aircraft Association's (EAA's) AirVenture Oshkosh 2009 found many changes to what has become America's greatest air show.
Held July 27 through Aug. 1 at Wittman Regional Airport, the 57th annual edition brought improved creature comforts for the stalwart convention-goers. The changes around the event are the result of the first phase of a 10-year, multimillion-dollar program to redesign and improve the grounds. Enhancements include better separation of pedestrians and vehicles, improved tram service schedules, shaded rest areas and more.
Veterans of AirVenture noticed the most prominent changes as they arrived—a new main entrance. The prominent landmark known as the "Brown Arch" has been renewed, enhancing the entrance to the main aircraft parking area. Some of the buildings and the Fly-Mart have been relocated as part of the renovations.
Except for a torrential afternoon downpour that cancelled the opening day air show (followed by a prolonged morning shower on Wednesday), the weather cooperated with lower-than-normal temperatures. |
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 | | | The panel of honored speakers at the symposium included (left to right) Col. Ralph Parr, Maj. Gen. Frederick Blesse, Lt. Col. Clyde East and Col. C.E. “Bud” Anderson. | |
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| It was more than the usual Aces Symposium. There was something in the air, an excitement that everyone felt. Certainly the panel of four aces was unique—all of them had 10 or more victories and all have been featured on History Channel's series "Dogfights." Other aces were there, too, but something was different. |
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 | | | The futuristic-looking Spaceport America encompasses a terminal and hangar complex which will serve as the launch and recovery center for Virgin Galactic’s first commercial flight into space. | |
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| On June 19, 2009, a caravan of tour buses carrying over 400 passengers departed Las Cruces, N.M. On board were VIPs, aerospace personnel, government officials and a large media contingent. Following a brief stop at a community event in Truth or Consequences, N.M., the caravan motored on past historical locations such as the Rio Grande River, Elephant Butte Dam and the El Camino Real Trail. |
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