AirVenture 2000 — A Week Among the Aircraft and the Atmosphere
AirVenture 2000 was one of those rare events where everything came together — the aircraft, the people, the weather, and the sheer scale of it all. For a week, Oshkosh became the centre of the aviation world, with machines of every shape and age arriving from all directions. From warbirds to homebuilts, classic transports to modern jets, the flightline seemed endless, and there was always something moving, landing, or starting up somewhere in the distance.
Being there in 2000 meant early mornings on the field, wandering between rows of aircraft before the crowds built up, and long afternoons watching arrivals, displays, and the constant flow of activity that never really stopped. The atmosphere was relaxed but full of energy — pilots chatting by their aircraft, volunteers keeping everything running smoothly, and visitors soaking up the sights and sounds.
The photographs in this gallery follow that same rhythm — they’re not in any particular order, just moments captured as they happened throughout the week.
This collection reflects the aircraft that stood out, the scenes that caught the eye, and the sense of being surrounded by aviation in every direction. AirVenture 2000 was more than a show — it was an experience, and these images capture the parts of it that stayed with me.
Cessna 195A “Businessliner”, early 1950s
A polished Cessna 195A displayed on the flight line at a summer fly‑in. Introduced in 1947 as Cessna’s post‑war executive transport, the 195A combined a cantilever high wing with the Jacobs R‑755 radial engine, giving the Businessliner its distinctive profile and smooth performance. This example features period wheel spats and blue trim, with other classic aircraft visible in the background.
Waco YMF‑5, continuation‑production biplane, AirVenture 2000.
A modern‑production example of the classic 1930s Waco open‑cockpit sport biplane, finished in high‑gloss red and fitted with the optional uncowled Jacobs R‑755 radial engine. This aircraft was photographed on the grass flight line during EAA AirVenture 2000, with other visiting light aircraft visible in the background.
de Havilland DH.82A Tiger Moth, RAAF A17‑491.
A restored Royal Australian Air Force Tiger Moth in silver‑dope finish with kangaroo roundel and A17‑491 serial, displayed on the flight line with other vintage aircraft. The DH.82A served as the RAAF’s primary trainer throughout the Second World War, with more than 1,000 examples built in Australia.
Progressive Aerodyne SeaRey, N115xx, AirVenture 2000.
A privately built SeaRey amphibious aircraft finished in white with red and gold striping, displayed on the grass flight line during EAA AirVenture 2000. This example features the early SeaRey two‑piece hinged canopy, together with the type’s characteristic cabin‑top pylon‑mounted pusher engine, composite flying‑boat hull and retractable amphibious landing gear. Introduced in the early 1990s, the SeaRey became one of the most widely built kit‑amphibians of its era.
Inside the Ford 4‑AT‑E Trimotor, about to roll for takeoff, AirVenture 2000.
A forward view from the cabin of the EAA’s Ford 4‑AT‑E Trimotor at AirVenture 2000 as the crew completes final checks and prepares to begin the take‑off roll. The green cockpit interior, vintage instrumentation and corrugated metal structure frame the pilots as the three radial engines settle into their ground‑run rhythm, capturing the authentic atmosphere of a 1920s airliner moments before departure from Wittman Field.
Taxying in the Ford 4‑AT‑E Trimotor, AirVenture 2000.
A view from the port‑side cabin window of the EAA’s Ford 4‑AT‑E Trimotor while taxying at Wittman Field during AirVenture 2000. The port Pratt & Whitney R‑985 Wasp Junior radial engine dominates the scene, its propeller blurred in low‑power ground‑run as the aircraft moves along the grass toward the Vintage area. Light aircraft and visitors line the background, capturing the atmosphere of a busy Oshkosh afternoon.
View from inside the EAA’s Ford 4‑AT‑E Trimotor during a scenic flight at AirVenture 2000, looking out past the corrugated metal fuselage and the pylon‑mounted engine as the aircraft climbs away from Wittman Field. The open cabin windows, exposed structure and distinctive engine note capture the authentic 1920s airliner experience as passengers enjoy the short hop over Oshkosh.
Ford 4‑AT‑E Trimotor, port engine in flight, AirVenture 2000.
A view from the port‑side cabin window of the EAA’s Ford 4‑AT‑E Trimotor shortly after take‑off from Wittman Field during AirVenture 2000. The port Pratt & Whitney R‑985 Wasp Junior radial engine dominates the frame, its cylinders and propeller blurred in motion as the aircraft climbs over the airfield below. The scene captures the authentic 1920s airliner experience in flight above Oshkosh.
Ford Trimotor go‑around with Cessna ahead, AirVenture 2000.
A view from the port‑side cabin window of the EAA’s Ford 4‑AT‑E Trimotor during a go‑around at Wittman Field after a Cessna 172 ahead in the arrival stack failed to clear the runway in time. The Trimotor’s port radial engine fills the foreground as the aircraft climbs away, with the Cessna visible ahead over the runways and buildings of Oshkosh. The scene captures the busy, tightly sequenced traffic typical of AirVenture 2000.
Ford 4‑AT‑E Trimotor turning back toward Wittman Field, AirVenture 2000.
A view from the port‑side cabin window of the EAA’s Ford 4‑AT‑E Trimotor during a go‑around at AirVenture 2000. The port Pratt & Whitney R‑985 Wasp Junior radial engine dominates the foreground as the aircraft banks over the farmland south of Oshkosh, with the runways and airport buildings visible ahead through the haze. The image captures the authentic 1920s airliner experience amid the busy arrival traffic of the world’s largest fly‑in.
Passenger’s‑eye view from the EAA Ford 4‑AT‑E Trimotor on landing at Wittman Regional Airport during EAA AirVenture 2000. The aircraft is in a gentle bank as it turns onto the approach, revealing the main runway complex set against the flat Wisconsin farmland. The image captures the Trimotor’s characteristic low‑altitude arrival profile and the unique cabin perspective experienced by passengers during the show’s heritage flights.
de Havilland Canada DHC‑1 Chipmunk T.10 in post‑war RAF training markings, displayed on the grass flightline during EAA AirVenture 2000. Finished in the silver scheme with yellow trainer bands, Type D roundels and fin flash, this RAF‑built example features the distinctive one‑piece sliding canopy of the T.10 variant. The aircraft is tied down on the grass with a row of Portoilets and show tents visible behind, reflecting the typical Oshkosh flightline environment of the period.
Two Grumman TBF/TBM Avengers on the warbird flightline during EAA AirVenture 2000. The foreground aircraft, marked “25,” wears a light grey U.S. Navy scheme, while the darker example behind it shows a different wartime finish. Both display the Avenger’s characteristic deep fuselage, broad wing and dorsal turret — hallmarks of the U.S. Navy’s principal torpedo bomber of the Second World War. Visitors gather around the aircraft, reflecting the strong warbird presence at Oshkosh in 2000.
Grumman F6F Hellcat in Gloss Sea Blue with period nose art, displayed on the warbird flightline during EAA AirVenture 2000. The aircraft shows the classic lines of the U.S. Navy’s dominant WWII carrier fighter, including the deep fuselage, broad wing and distinctive canopy profile. Chocked on the grass with visitors and other warbirds behind, the Hellcat represents one of the most successful naval fighters of the Pacific War.
Vought F4U Corsair in late‑1943 U.S. Marine Corps markings, displayed with wings folded on the warbird flightline during EAA AirVenture 2000. The aircraft carries the short‑lived 1943 national insignia featuring a red border around the star‑and‑bar, introduced in September 1943 and replaced only a few months later. Finished in a dark blue restoration scheme with period nose art, the Corsair shows the distinctive inverted gull wing and long‑nose profile as visitors gather around on the grass flightline.
North American SNJ‑5 Texan in U.S. Navy training and utility markings, representing VC‑10 at Guantánamo Bay. Finished in the classic post‑war scheme of silver fuselage with yellow wings and tail surfaces and an orange fin, the aircraft carries the “NAVY VC‑10” legend and GTMO Bay identifiers. Seen here on the grass flightline with protective covers fitted during an airshow display.
Curtiss P‑40N Warhawk in American Volunteer Group “Flying Tigers” markings, displayed on the grass flightline at EAA AirVenture 2000. Finished in an AVG‑style Olive Drab scheme with sharkmouth nose art, Nationalist Chinese roundels and the distinctive fuselage tiger emblem, the aircraft represents the famous volunteer fighter group that defended China in 1941–42. The P‑40N’s lengthened rear fuselage and extended canopy identify it as a late‑war variant presented in an early‑war Flying Tigers scheme.
North American Harvard II in RAF Desert Air Force “squadron hack” tribute markings, displayed on the grass flightline at an airshow. Finished in Dark Earth and Middle Stone over Azure Blue with the code “DB‑K,” the aircraft evokes the liaison and training machines used alongside front‑line Kittyhawks in the North African campaign. The long framed canopy, triangular rear side‑window and characteristic Harvard airframe confirm it as a trainer presented in a fighter‑style scheme, with other aircraft and visitors visible in the background.
Curtiss P‑40N Warhawk in pre‑May 1942 U.S. Army Air Corps markings, displayed on the grass flightline during EAA AirVenture 2000. Finished in Olive Drab with Flying Tigers‑style sharkmouth nose art, the aircraft carries the early‑war star‑and‑circle insignia with a red centre dot, a marking discontinued in May 1942. The P‑40N’s lengthened rear fuselage, extended canopy and yellow tail number “11456” identify it as the late‑war N‑model, presented here in an early‑war scheme.
Dornier Do 28A/B on floats, U.S. registration N774E, photographed on the grass floatplane area at Shawano Municipal Airport, Wisconsin. The aircraft shows the early piston‑engined Do 28 configuration with its distinctive twin engines mounted on short fuselage stubs below the high wing. Finished in a red‑white‑blue civil scheme, the float‑equipped Dornier sits among long grass with nearby houses and trees typical of the Shawano lakeside airport environment.
Van’s RV‑6A, U.S. registration N261X, finished in a Nigerian Air Force tribute scheme with NAF roundel and code “061.” Displayed on the grass flightline at an airshow, the aircraft retains its civilian red‑and‑white paintwork with applied NAF markings.
Vultee BT‑13A Valiant in polished‑metal WWII U.S. Army Air Forces basic‑trainer markings, carrying the nose art “LAST DATE – BAWLS OOT” beside a reclining blonde pin‑up. Photographed on the grass flightline during EAA AirVenture 2000, the aircraft displays 1943‑style rudder stripes and red‑centre USAAF roundels, representing the BT‑13’s role as the standard Basic Trainer in the wartime training pipeline.
Vultee BT‑13A Valiant in polished‑metal USAAF markings with nose art “LAST DATE – BAWLS OOT,” photographed on the grass flightline at EAA AirVenture 2000.
Nord 3202, NX2256B.
French post‑war basic trainer developed for the Armée de l’Air and ALAT, powered by the Potez 4D inline engine and distinguished by its fixed crank‑leg undercarriage. This example is finished in a French trainer‑style yellow scheme with tricolour fuselage bands and a chequered fin. Photographed on the grass flightline at EAA AirVenture 2000.
Curtiss‑Wright C‑46D Commando “Tinker Belle”, USAAF serial 44‑78774.
Large twin‑engined transport aircraft developed during the Second World War for long‑range cargo, troop and paratroop operations. The C‑46 was the heaviest and most powerful twin‑engine aircraft to serve with the USAAF, noted for its capacious “double‑bubble” fuselage, high‑aspect wings and Pratt & Whitney R‑2800 radial engines. It became particularly associated with operations over the Himalayan “Hump” route, where its load‑carrying ability and high‑altitude performance made it indispensable for sustaining Allied forces in China.
This example, restored as “Tinker Belle”, represents the type’s wartime transport role and carries period olive‑drab markings with nose art. Displayed with its large cargo door open, it illustrates the Commando’s primary function as a heavy tactical airlifter. Photographed on the grass flightline at EAA AirVenture 2000, where it appeared as one of the few airworthy C‑46s on the North American display circuit.
Douglas C‑47A Skytrain, marked “53”.
Military transport variant of the DC‑3, developed for the United States Army Air Forces and widely employed throughout the Second World War for troop transport, paratroop delivery, glider towing and general airlift duties. Powered by twin Pratt & Whitney R‑1830 Twin Wasp radial engines, the C‑47 combined reliability with excellent short‑field performance, enabling operations from improvised forward strips. Its reinforced cargo floor, large side door and strengthened airframe distinguished it from the civil DC‑3.
This example is finished in a desert‑tan and white camouflage scheme with USAAF insignia and the tactical number “53” on the nose, representing aircraft deployed to North African and Mediterranean theatres. Displayed on the grass flightline at EAA AirVenture 2000, it illustrates the enduring legacy of the C‑47 as one of the most significant military transports of the twentieth century.
Douglas DC‑3 in red‑and‑white heritage airline colours, carrying “Douglas DC‑3” titling and globe emblem, displayed on the grass flightline at EAA AirVenture 2000.
Junkers Ju 52/3m, Luftwaffe‑marked tri‑motor transport.
Developed in the early 1930s, the Ju 52/3m became one of the most recognisable German aircraft of the period, distinguished by its corrugated duralumin skin, three‑engine layout, and robust fixed undercarriage. Originally conceived as a civil airliner and freighter, it entered widespread military service as a transport, paratroop carrier and general utility aircraft. Powered by three BMW radial engines, the Ju 52 combined reliability with excellent short‑field performance, enabling operations from improvised forward strips across Europe, North Africa and the Eastern Front.
This example is finished in wartime green camouflage with yellow theatre markings, Luftwaffe crosses, and the type’s characteristic corrugated fuselage clearly visible. Displayed with its cabin door open, it illustrates the aircraft’s primary role as a versatile troop and cargo carrier. Photographed on the grass flightline at EAA AirVenture 2000, where it appeared as one of the few airworthy Ju 52s to tour North America.
Soko G‑2A Galeb, JRV serial 23172, Yugoslav tandem‑seat jet trainer in green‑and‑grey camouflage with wingtip tanks, shark‑mouth nose art and national star roundel, parked on hardstanding at EAA AirVenture 2000.
North American F‑86F Sabre “Crap Shooter”, USAF serial 52‑3711 (FU‑711), polished‑metal Korean‑War‑era scheme with checkerboard fin and yellow/black recognition bands, parked on hardstanding at EAA AirVenture 2000.
Lockheed PV‑2 Harpoon
United States Navy maritime patrol‑bomber, introduced 1944. The PV‑2 was the final and most capable development of the Ventura family, featuring enlarged wings, increased fuel capacity, and improved handling for long‑range anti‑submarine and strike operations in the Pacific theatre. Aircraft in this configuration typically carried radar, depth charges, rockets, or bombs for coastal patrol and convoy protection. This example is shown in late‑war US Navy camouflage with 1943‑pattern national markings.
Grumman F8F Bearcat and Hawker Sea Furies — AirVenture 2000
A Grumman F8F Bearcat (N7209) is seen on the AirVenture 2000 flight line ahead of two Hawker Sea Fury FB.11s. Although the Bearcat was famed for its exceptional climb and acceleration, the Sea Fury held the higher absolute top speed, making it one of the fastest piston‑engined fighters ever to see service. The nearest Sea Fury carries the Royal Navy serial WJ283, with a second aircraft behind it in Royal Australian Navy‑style markings.
Hawker Sea Fury FB.11 — Royal Australian Navy
A folded‑wing Sea Fury FB.11 in post‑1956 Royal Australian Navy markings, coded “NAVY 105”. Behind it sits another Sea Fury FB.11 carrying the presentation serial WJ288, with the aircraft’s “P” tail code also visible in this view. The Sea Fury served with the RAN from 1949 to 1962, including combat operations in Korea with 805 and 808 Squadrons, and remains one of the fastest piston‑engined carrier fighters ever built.
Grumman F6F Hellcat (restored) — United States Navy
A restored Hellcat finished in a non‑authentic composite paint scheme combining early‑war star‑only national insignia with white undersurfaces and a late‑production airframe. While operational Hellcats never carried this combination of markings, the scheme represents a stylised tribute finish typical of airshow restorations. The aircraft carries the presentation number “5” in simplified U.S. Navy style.
Vought F4U‑1D Corsair (restored) — AirVenture 2000
A Corsair displayed at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2000 in the 1943–44 tri‑colour camouflage of Sea Blue, Intermediate Blue and White, shown with its wings folded in the standard carrier‑borne configuration. The aircraft carries mixed wartime national markings, with the fuselage displaying the short‑lived June–August 1943 star‑and‑bar without a blue border, while the wings carry the later 1943–44 bordered version. The side number “19” is a presentation marking applied for display.
McKinnon G‑44 “Super Widgeon” (N474JH) — AirVenture 2000
A McKinnon‑converted Grumman G‑44 “Super Widgeon” (N474JH) displayed on the grass flight line at EAA AirVenture 2000. Originally built as a Grumman Widgeon, this aircraft has been extensively modernised with twin turboprop engines, upgraded systems and strengthened structures, creating a high‑performance amphibian capable of operating from both land and water. The Super Widgeon conversions were among the most capable post‑war developments of the classic Grumman amphibian family.
Beechcraft King Air 350 (N350AJ) — AirVenture 2000
A Beechcraft King Air 350 (N350AJ) on the flight line at EAA AirVenture 2000. Powered by twin Pratt & Whitney PT6A turboprops, the King Air 350 is the largest member of the long‑running King Air family, featuring a stretched cabin with seven oval windows per side, a distinctive T‑tail and winglets for improved performance. Widely used for corporate transport, air ambulance work and special‑mission roles, the type remains one of the most successful turboprop twins ever produced.
Cessna 337 Super Skymaster (N1873M) — AirVenture 2000
A Cessna 337 Super Skymaster (N1873M) on the flight line at EAA AirVenture 2000. The Super Skymaster features Cessna’s distinctive push–pull configuration, with one engine mounted in the nose and a second in pusher position behind the cabin, eliminating asymmetric thrust in the event of an engine failure. Its twin‑boom tail, high wing and retractable tricycle undercarriage make it one of the most recognisable light twins of the post‑war era.
Canadian Car & Foundry Harvard Mk IV (N7754), c/n CCF4‑215 — AirVenture 2000
A Canadian Car & Foundry Harvard Mk IV (N7754), construction number CCF4‑215, displayed at EAA AirVenture 2000 in a Japanese A6M Zero presentation scheme with the tailcode V‑107. Originally built in 1952 as a Harvard trainer, this aircraft was later modified cosmetically for film and airshow work to represent the Mitsubishi Zero, adopting the dark‑green finish, Hinomaru markings and spinner associated with the wartime fighter. Beneath the paint, the airframe retains the characteristic structure of the Harvard/T‑6 family.
North American AT‑6B Texan (N11171), Zero Replica — AirVenture 2000
A North American AT‑6B Texan (N11171), construction number 84‑7800, displayed at EAA AirVenture 2000 in a Mitsubishi A6M Zero presentation scheme as AI‑115. Originally built as an advanced trainer, this aircraft was later modified for film and airshow work to portray the Imperial Japanese Navy’s A6M Zero, adopting replica rounded wingtips, a reshaped cowling and period markings. Beneath the cosmetic alterations, the airframe retains the characteristic structure of the AT‑6/Harvard family.
North American Harvard IIA (N2462), ex‑South African Air Force — AirVenture 2000
A North American Harvard IIA (N2462), formerly operated by the South African Air Force, displayed at EAA AirVenture 2000 in authentic SAAF post‑war training colours. The aircraft carries the SAAF’s distinctive springbok roundel and the presentation code 7946, reflecting the long service of the Harvard in South Africa, where the type trained generations of pilots from the 1940s into the 1990s. Powered by a Pratt & Whitney R‑1340 radial engine, the Harvard remains one of the most recognisable and enduring military trainers ever built.
North American Harvard IIA (N2462), ex‑South African Air Force — AirVenture 2000
A North American Harvard IIA (N2462), formerly operated by the South African Air Force, seen head‑on at EAA AirVenture 2000. Finished in the SAAF’s post‑war training scheme with orange high‑visibility panels and the springbok roundel, this aircraft represents the long‑serving Harvards that trained generations of South African pilots. Powered by a Pratt & Whitney R‑1340 radial engine, the Harvard remained a mainstay of SAAF flying training for more than five decades.
Hawker Sea Fury — AirVenture 2000
A Hawker Sea Fury in Royal Australian Navy‑style markings, carrying the presentation code 105 NAVY, seen in flight at EAA AirVenture 2000. Introduced in the final months of the Second World War, the Sea Fury was the Fleet Air Arm’s last piston‑engined fighter and one of the fastest single‑engine aircraft ever built. Powered by the Bristol Centaurus radial and noted for its superb handling, the type saw extensive post‑war service, including operations in Korea. This restored example displays the clean lines and powerful radial profile that make the Sea Fury a favourite on the airshow circuit.
Vought F4U Corsair — AirVenture 2000
A Vought F4U Corsair in post‑war U.S. Navy markings, carrying the tail code RW‑12 and the unit identifier VC‑3, seen in flight at EAA AirVenture 2000. Powered by the Pratt & Whitney R‑2800 Double Wasp and recognisable by its distinctive inverted gull wings, the Corsair served with distinction in both the Second World War and the Korean War. This restored example represents the Gloss Sea Blue scheme adopted by the U.S. Navy from 1944 onwards and evokes the aircraft flown by Composite Squadron Three during carrier and shore‑based operations.
A Republic P‑47D Thunderbolt in the distinctive “Tarheel Hal” colour scheme, seen in flight at EAA AirVenture 2000. Finished with a yellow nose, orange tail and full D‑Day invasion stripes, this restored example represents one of the most recognisable Thunderbolt paint schemes on the modern warbird circuit. Powered by the 2,000‑hp Pratt & Whitney R‑2800 Double Wasp, the P‑47D was renowned for its ruggedness, firepower and versatility, serving as both a high‑altitude escort fighter and a formidable ground‑attack aircraft during the Second World War.