AirVenture 2013 opened under a banner of resilience. In his remarks that year, the EAA President framed the show as a triumph over adversity, acknowledging the financial pressures, regulatory challenges, and organisational headwinds that had shaped the months leading up to Oshkosh. Yet the event that unfolded on the grounds of Wittman Regional Airport demonstrated the opposite of contraction: strong attendance, a revitalised programme, and a community determined to keep the world’s largest aviation gathering moving forward.
The flightline reflected this spirit. Warbirds, homebuilts, and vintage aircraft arrived in force, joined by a growing contingent of modern composite designs and advanced avionics platforms that were reshaping general aviation. The daily schedule leaned into heritage and innovation in equal measure, with large‑scale formations, precision aerobatics, and manufacturer showcases that highlighted both the history and the future of flight.
Across the grounds, AirVenture 2013 carried the unmistakable energy of a community refusing to be defined by its challenges. From the seaplane base to Pioneer Airport, the show reaffirmed Oshkosh’s identity as aviation’s annual meeting place — a gathering built not on ease, but on the shared determination to overcome obstacles and keep the spirit of flight alive.
A Stewart S-51D scale replica, finished in the famous “Beautiful Doll” markings, is displayed in the Warbirds Area at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. With its engine cowling removed, visitors can examine the aircraft’s modern powerplant and compact engineering, highlighting the differences between this high-performance homebuilt and the original wartime Mustang. Designed to capture the unmistakable appearance and handling characteristics of the legendary fighter in a smaller, more economical package, the Stewart S-51D has become one of the most successful Mustang-inspired replica aircraft.
A pair of beautifully restored North American P-51D Mustangs dominate the Warbirds Area at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. On the left is “Little Rebel,” while “Petie 2nd” occupies the foreground in the celebrated blue-nosed markings of the 352nd Fighter Group, one of the highest-scoring Mustang units of the Second World War. Surrounded by fellow warbirds on the Oshkosh flightline, these iconic fighters represent the engineering excellence and combat effectiveness that made the P-51 Mustang one of the most successful long-range escort fighters in aviation history.
The Commemorative Air Force’s North American P-51D Mustang “Gunfighter” is displayed in the Warbirds Area at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Finished in distinctive Eighth Air Force-style markings with the CY-U squadron code, this beautifully restored Mustang represents one of the most iconic fighters of the Second World War. Powered by the legendary Packard-built Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the P-51D combined exceptional speed, range, and firepower, enabling it to escort Allied bombers deep into enemy territory and helping secure air superiority over Europe
An Aero L-39 Albatros sits on static display at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013, with its nose avionics bay open for visitors to examine the aircraft’s internal systems. Designed by Aero Vodochody in Czechoslovakia, the L-39 first flew in 1968 and became the standard advanced jet trainer for many Warsaw Pact and allied air forces. Renowned for its reliability, straightforward handling, and economical operation, the Albatros remains a popular aircraft with civilian owners, military heritage organisations, and aerobatic display teams around the world
The Pride Aircraft Aero L-39C Albatros is displayed at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013, wearing a distinctive white, blue, and red livery celebrating the company’s 25th Anniversary. Developed by Aero Vodochody, the L-39C became the standard advanced jet trainer for numerous Warsaw Pact and allied air forces, with more than 2,800 aircraft produced. Renowned for its reliability, forgiving handling, and economical operation, the L-39C remains one of the world’s most popular privately operated military jets, continuing to perform at airshows and with civilian operators decades after its introduction.
A beautifully restored 1943 Fairchild M-62A-3 Cornell (PT-26), N9279H, is displayed in the Warbirds Area at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Developed from the successful PT-19 trainer, the M-62A-3 featured an enclosed cockpit to improve comfort during cold-weather operations and became an important primary trainer for the Royal Canadian Air Force under the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan. Powered by a Ranger inline engine, the Cornell introduced thousands of Allied pilots to military flying before they progressed to more advanced training aircraft and frontline combat types.
A distinctive tandem-seat trainer in military-style markings is displayed in the Warbirds Area at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Finished in a striking dark blue scheme with U.S. national insignia beneath the wing, the aircraft attracted attention among the extensive collection of historic and replica military aircraft on display. Although its exact identity remains unconfirmed, it reflects the diverse range of classic trainers and privately operated warbirds that make Oshkosh one of the world’s premier aviation gatherings.
A North American T-6D Texan displayed in the Warbirds area during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. One of the most important advanced trainers of the Second World War, the T-6 prepared thousands of Allied pilots for the transition to frontline fighters. This restored example wears a distinctive commemorative paint scheme featuring “Corpus” training markings and U.S. national insignia, reflecting the aircraft’s long association with military pilot training.
A Boeing-Stearman PT-17 Kaydet displayed in the Warbirds area at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. One of the most recognisable primary trainers of the Second World War, the rugged PT-17 introduced thousands of U.S. Army Air Forces cadets to military flying. Finished in wartime markings, including the U.S. national insignia beneath the starboard upper wing and serial 42-25714, this beautifully restored biplane is a reminder of the aircraft that launched the careers of countless Allied pilots.
A Boeing B75N1 (Stearman Model 75) is displayed in the Warbirds area at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. One of the most famous primary trainers of the Second World War, the rugged Stearman introduced thousands of military pilots to flight before they progressed to advanced trainers and frontline combat aircraft. Restored in U.S. Army Air Forces markings with serial 42-25714 and wartime national insignia, this beautifully presented biplane is a fitting tribute to the aircraft that trained a generation of Allied aviators.
A General Motors-built TBM Avenger, one of the U.S. Navy’s most successful carrier-based torpedo bombers of the Second World War, on static display at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. The rugged Avenger served throughout the Pacific campaign and later found new life in post-war roles including anti-submarine warfare, aerial firefighting and warbird preservation. The aircraft is displayed in authentic U.S. Navy markings.
A Grumman FM-2 Wildcat is displayed on the warbird flight line during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. The FM-2 was the final and most capable production version of the famous Wildcat, manufactured by General Motors’ Eastern Aircraft Division. Lighter and more powerful than earlier F4F variants, the FM-2 served with distinction from escort carriers during the closing years of the Second World War, providing fighter cover, convoy protection and close air support across the Atlantic and Pacific theatres. Today, surviving Wildcats remain among the most evocative naval fighters of the wartime era.
A Grumman TBM-3E Avenger, displayed in the colours of U.S. Navy VA(TB)-236, on the warbird flight line at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Built by General Motors’ Eastern Aircraft Division, the TBM-3E was the ultimate production version of the famous Avenger torpedo bomber. Powered by a Wright R-2600 radial engine and operated by a crew of three, the Avenger played a vital role in anti-shipping strikes, anti-submarine patrols and close support operations during the Second World War. This beautifully restored example carries the squadron insignia of VA(TB)-236 and the cowling side number T83, preserving the appearance of one of the U.S. Navy’s most effective carrier-based combat aircraft.
The beautifully restored Grumman TBM-3E Avenger “Ida Red” is seen on the flight line at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Built by General Motors’ Eastern Aircraft Division, the TBM-3E was the final production version of the U.S. Navy’s legendary carrier-based torpedo bomber. Powered by a Wright R-2600 radial engine and operated by a crew of three, the Avenger excelled in anti-shipping, anti-submarine and maritime patrol missions during the Second World War. Restored in post-war U.S. Navy markings with the side number 7, “Ida Red” is a superb example of the rugged aircraft that remained in military and civilian service for decades after the war.
A beautifully restored Grumman F8F-1 Bearcat wearing the classic U.S. Navy Blue Angels blue-and-yellow display scheme is parked on the flightline at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Marked “U.S. NAVY 52” with Blue Angels script on the engine cowling, the aircraft represents the type flown by the Blue Angels between 1946 and 1949. Compact, powerful, and among the finest piston-engined naval fighters ever built, the Bearcat bridged the gap between the Second World War and the dawn of the jet age.
A North American T-28B Trojan is displayed on the flightline at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013, wearing authentic U.S. Navy advanced trainer markings from USS Lexington (CVT-16). Powered by a 1,425 hp Wright R-1820 radial engine, the T-28B prepared thousands of naval aviators for carrier operations during the 1950s and 1960s. Renowned for its rugged construction, responsive handling, and distinctive radial-engine growl, the Trojan remains one of the most recognisable military trainers of the post-war era and continues to be a popular attraction on the North American warbird circuit.
A beautifully restored North American FJ-4B Fury is displayed on the flightline at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Carrying U.S. Navy markings, Bureau Number 143575, and side number 44, the swept-wing fighter represents the ultimate development of the Fury family. Entering service in the late 1950s, the FJ-4B featured strengthened wings with multiple external stores stations, allowing it to serve as both a fighter and a fighter-bomber. Although derived from the North American F-86 Sabre, the naval Fury incorporated numerous modifications for carrier operations, making it one of the U.S. Navy’s last and most capable gun-armed carrier fighters before the widespread adoption of missile-equipped supersonic aircraft.
A gleaming North American F-86F Sabre is displayed on the warbird ramp at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Finished in polished natural metal with the markings FU-986 and U.S. Air Force serial 52-4986, the aircraft represents the classic swept-wing jet fighter that achieved legendary status during the Korean War. Renowned for its outstanding performance and agility, the F-86F was instrumental in establishing air superiority over “MiG Alley” and remains one of the most iconic first-generation jet fighters ever built. Today, meticulously restored examples such as this continue to preserve the legacy of the Sabre for new generations of aviation enthusiasts.
A de Havilland Canada CV-2 (later DHC-4A) Caribou, U.S. Army serial 62-4149, on static display at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Renowned for its exceptional short takeoff and landing (STOL) capability, the rugged twin-engined Caribou was designed to operate from rough, unimproved airstrips while carrying troops, supplies and casualties into forward areas. The type served extensively during the Vietnam War before the U.S. Army’s fleet was transferred to the U.S. Air Force.
Douglas DC-3C N728G, displayed in the striking Douglas Aircraft Company demonstrator colours, at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Originally built in 1942, this classic airliner is a DC-3C—a military transport converted back to civil DC-3 standards. Wearing the iconic Douglas promotional livery, it recalls the aircraft that revolutionised commercial aviation before its military counterparts served with distinction around the world during the Second World War. More than 75 years after it was built, the DC-3 remains one of aviation’s most successful and enduring designs.
A beautifully restored Douglas DC-3 sits on display at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Known as the Dakota in RAF and Commonwealth service and the C-47 Skytrain in US military use, the DC-3 transformed commercial air travel and proved indispensable during the Second World War. More than eighty years after its first flight, the legendary twin-engined transport remains one of aviation’s most enduring and beloved aircraft.
North American B-25J Mitchell “Georgie’s Gal” is seen on static display at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Finished in olive drab with authentic wartime-style nose art and mission markings, this beautifully restored B-25J represents the rugged medium bomber that served with distinction in every theatre of the Second World War. Powered by a pair of Wright R-2600 Twin Cyclone radial engines, the Mitchell became renowned for its durability, versatility and combat record, remaining one of the most iconic American bombers of the era.
The North American PBJ-1J “Devil Dog” is displayed at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Operated by the U.S. Marine Corps, the PBJ-1 was the Marine designation for the B-25 Mitchell and served extensively in the Pacific during the Second World War. Finished in glossy sea blue with distinctive nose art, this restored aircraft represents the versatile medium bomber that was adapted by the Marines for anti-shipping strikes, close air support, reconnaissance and night operations. The PBJ remains a rare and fascinating variant of the legendary Mitchell family.
A Douglas C-47 Skytrain is displayed in authentic D-Day invasion markings at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. The rugged transport aircraft was the backbone of Allied airborne operations during the Second World War, carrying paratroopers, towing gliders and delivering vital supplies. Its distinctive black-and-white invasion stripes recall the aircraft that flew into Normandy on 6 June 1944, when hundreds of C-47s played a pivotal role in the opening hours of Operation Overlord.
The beautifully restored North American B-25J Mitchell “Lady Luck” sits on the Warbirds flightline during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Finished in polished natural metal, the veteran medium bomber is adorned with its colourful “Lady Luck” nose art—a classic wartime-style pin-up—while retaining the distinctive glazed bombardier’s nose and dorsal turret that characterised the late-production B-25J. In the background, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain completes a scene that celebrates two of America’s most iconic World War II aircraft.
The Lockheed L-18 Lodestar N250JR is displayed at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013 in U.S. Navy executive transport markings. Built in 1943, the aircraft was extensively modified by Dee Howard in 1963 into a Howard 250 executive transport, combining the classic lines of the Lodestar with improved performance and passenger comfort. Powered by a pair of 1,350 hp Wright R-1820 Cyclone engines, this rare survivor represents an important chapter in both military and post-war executive aviation history.
The rugged Grumman HU-16 Albatross, displayed in classic U.S. Air Force Air Rescue Service markings, was a popular attraction at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Designed as a long-range amphibious aircraft, the Albatross could operate from both land and water, making it ideal for search and rescue missions. For decades it served with the U.S. Air Force, Navy and Coast Guard, saving countless lives by recovering downed airmen and stranded mariners in some of the world’s most challenging conditions. The bright yellow rescue markings reflect the aircraft’s humanitarian mission and made it highly visible during rescue operations.
Two Honda HA-420 HondaJets in formation at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. The lead aircraft, N420RM, carries a nose-mounted flight-test boom, identifying it as a flight-test aircraft, while N420NC appears in a standard demonstration configuration.
Schweizer SGM 2-37 N39AF, displayed at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013 in U.S. Air Force Academy-inspired colours. The aircraft is dedicated to Capt. Carl E. Carey, one of the famed Tuskegee Airmen of the 332nd Fighter Group, whose wartime service and distinguished flying career are commemorated by this unique motor glider.
Ford 5-AT-C Trimotor c/n 58, formerly N8419 (deregistered 2023 after export to the United Kingdom), displayed by the Air Zoo at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013 in representative U.S. Army Air Corps C-4A air ambulance markings.
The Experimental Aircraft Association’s Ford 4-AT-E Trimotor, NC8407, taxis at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013 in the classic blue-and-silver colours of Eastern Air Transport. Built in 1929, the corrugated all-metal “Tin Goose” represents the dawn of reliable commercial air travel in the United States. Powered by three radial engines, NC8407 continues to introduce thousands of visitors to the sights, sounds and experience of flying aboard one of aviation’s true pioneers through the EAA’s popular passenger flight programme.
Two generations of the legendary Ford Trimotor share the flight line at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. On the left is the EAA’s Ford 4-AT-E, NC8407, resplendent in the classic colours of Eastern Air Transport, while on the right the Air Zoo’s larger Ford 5-AT-C is displayed in representative U.S. Army Air Corps C-4A air ambulance markings. Together, these beautifully preserved “Tin Geese” illustrate the evolution of Ford’s pioneering all-metal airliner, an aircraft that helped establish dependable passenger and cargo air services during aviation’s formative years.
The imposing Grumman HU-16 Albatross dominates the flight line at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Designed as a long-range amphibious search and rescue aircraft, the Albatross served with the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard, earning a reputation for exceptional seaworthiness and the ability to rescue survivors in conditions beyond the reach of conventional aircraft. In a pleasing juxtaposition of aviation eras, a modern HondaJet passes overhead as visitors inspect one of the last great piston-engined flying boats to serve in front-line military operations.
A North American Harvard, the Commonwealth designation for the T-6 Texan, is displayed in distinctive South African Air Force markings at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. The aircraft wears the post-war SAAF orange trainer scheme complete with the Springbok national insignia and checkerboard engine cowling, representing the type that trained generations of South African military pilots. Rugged, reliable and highly respected by its crews, the Harvard became one of the world’s most successful advanced trainers and remains a favourite on the international warbird circuit.
North American T-6 Texan N636MG is displayed at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013 wearing a striking yellow Luftwaffe-style training scheme. Although designed and built in the United States, surplus T-6s served with numerous air forces around the world after the Second World War, and many surviving examples today are restored in the colours of the countries that operated them. Renowned for its demanding handling characteristics, the T-6 was one of history’s most successful advanced trainers, preparing thousands of military pilots for the transition to high-performance combat aircraft.
Displayed in classic U.S. Navy colours, this North American SNJ stands on the flight line at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. The SNJ designation was used by the U.S. Navy for the celebrated T-6 Texan family, an advanced trainer that prepared thousands of naval aviators for service in front-line fighters and attack aircraft. Finished in an overall light grey scheme with a striking orange-and-red checkerboard engine cowling, the aircraft recalls the colourful appearance of post-war naval training units before the adoption of low-visibility camouflage.
A beautifully restored North American T-6 Texan, displayed in classic post-war U.S. Air Force trainer colours at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. The rugged T-6 was the principal advanced trainer for thousands of Allied pilots during and after the Second World War, bridging the gap between primary trainers and frontline fighters. Known throughout the Commonwealth as the Harvard, the type prepared generations of pilots for aircraft such as the P-51 Mustang, P-47 Thunderbolt and F4U Corsair. This example, carrying the large fuselage number 252, represents one of aviation history’s most successful military training aircraft.
A beautifully restored North American SNJ, the U.S. Navy’s version of the famous AT-6 Texan, is displayed on the flightline at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Carrying the colourful “Texas Twister” nose art and finished in classic U.S. Navy training markings, the aircraft represents one of the most important advanced trainers of the Second World War. Thousands of Allied fighter pilots earned their wings in the rugged Texan/Harvard/SNJ family before progressing to frontline combat aircraft, making it one of the most significant military trainers ever built.
A late-production Beechcraft H18 is displayed in attractive U.S. Navy SNB-style markings at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Unlike the wartime tailwheel C-45 and SNB variants, the H18 featured a factory-installed tricycle undercarriage, improving ground handling while retaining the rugged reliability that made the Beech 18 family one of aviation’s great success stories. Produced in numerous military and civil variants, Beech 18s served around the world for training, transport, executive travel and cargo work, with many remaining airworthy well into the 21st century.
Known affectionately as the “Bamboo Bomber,” the largely wooden Cessna T-50 earned its nickname from its wood-and-plywood construction, with the name believed to have originated among West Coast aircrews who likened it to the bamboo groves found in California.