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News & Media The good kind of thunder

The good kind of thunder

Afternoon airshow an AirVenture mainstay

July 25, 2023 By AOPA ePublishing staff

Radial engines rumble, jets howl, and for many EAA AirVenture Oshkosh attendees the daily afternoon airshow is a time to stop, find a shady spot, and marvel.

  • Attendees cover their ears while watching military jets perform during the opening day’s afternoon airshow at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in Wisconsin, July 24 2023. Photo by David Tulis.
  • Attendees watch the opening day afternoon airshow from the vintage area near earthrounder Adrian Eichhorn’s Beechcraft Bonanza. Photo by David Tulis.
  • The opening day afternoon airshow entertains attendees. Photo by David Tulis.
  • Attendees document the opening day airshow. Photo by David Tulis.
  • Warbirds perform during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh on July 24. Photo by David Tulis.
  • A missing man formation honors departed aviators during the opening day afternoon airshow on July 24. Photo by David Tulis.
  • A Lockheed U-2 single-engine, high-altitude reconnaissance spy plane, also known as the ‘Dragon Lady,’ makes an appearance during the opening day afternoon airshow. Photo by David Tulis.
  • Aerobatic pilot Skip Stewart wows the crowd in a Pitts Special during the opening afternoon airshow. Photo by David Tulis.
  • Attendees use their cellphones to document Skip Stewart’s performance during the opening afternoon airshow. Photo by David Tulis.
  • Aerobatic pilot Skip Stewart performs in a Pitts Special during the opening afternoon airshow. Photo by David Tulis.
  • Dawn Byrne and Steve Haas interact with grandson Robbie Gibson, who wears ear protection during the afternoon airshow. Photo by David Tulis.
  • Aerobatic pilot Skip Stewart performs during the opening afternoon airshow. Photo by David Tulis.

Warbirds of nearly every generation, massed in formations of a size now rarely seen outside of the big show, aerobats howling past the crowd with smoke on, sunlight dancing on polished wings—these are some of the magical elements that draw thousands of fans every year. 

Ear protection may be advisable, though you can view these photos by AOPA Senior Photographer David Tulis in silence and perfect safety at your convenience.

AOPA ePublishing staff
AOPA ePublishing Staff editors are experienced pilots, flight instructors, and aircraft owners who have a passion for bringing you the latest news and AOPA announcements.
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Topics: EAA AirVenture, People

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