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.
Douglas C-47A Skytrain “The Duchess of Dakota” on display at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Wearing the colours of the 61st Troop Carrier Group, complete with D-Day invasion stripes and the distinctive “9Y” squadron code, this beautifully restored transport honours the thousands of Dakotas that carried paratroopers, cargo and supplies across Europe during the Second World War. More than seventy years after its wartime service, The Duchess of Dakota continues to fly, preserving the legacy of the aircraft that helped make Allied victory possible.
This broadside view highlights the C-47’s unmistakable lines, from its rugged tailwheel undercarriage to the broad wing that made the Dakota one of the most reliable and versatile transport aircraft ever built.
Douglas C-47A Skytrain “Miss Virginia” (N47E) — AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Built in 1943, this classic C-47 is seen on the Warbirds flightline in its distinctive post-war U.S. Air Force colour scheme, complete with polished natural-metal finish and the fictitious serial 0-30665. Operated by Dynamic Aviation, “Miss Virginia” would later become a prominent member of the D-Day Squadron and participate in the 75th-anniversary D-Day commemorations in 2019.
Grumman HU-16E Albatross “Splash” (N226GR) — EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. The former U.S. Air Force search-and-rescue amphibian is displayed in its distinctive USAF markings, complete with polished-metal finish and yellow wingtip floats. Two U.S. Coast Guard Albatrosses are visible behind it, adding to this impressive gathering of Grumman’s legendary amphibious rescue aircraft at Oshkosh.
Vultee BT-13A Valiant / Aichi D3A “Val” replica, N67629 — EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Originally built as an American Vultee BT-13A Valiant, this aircraft was converted to represent the Japanese Aichi D3A Type 99 “Val” for Tora! Tora! Tora! and later appeared in Pearl Harbor. At Oshkosh it wore the markings of an Imperial Japanese Navy aircraft from Akagi, complete with Hinomaru markings and tail code AI-201.
Boeing B-29A Superfortress “FiFi” — EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Seen from below during the flying display, “FiFi” is one of the most famous surviving examples of the Boeing B-29 Superfortress. Built in 1945, she served with the U.S. Army Air Forces before being preserved and restored by the Commemorative Air Force. At the time of this photograph, “FiFi” was the world’s only airworthy B-29, making every appearance at Oshkosh a particularly special sight.
North American AT-6D/SNJ-5 Texan, modified as a Nakajima B5N “Kate” — AII-356 (N3725G) — EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Originally built as a U.S. Army AT-6D, this aircraft later served with the U.S. Navy as an SNJ-5 before being transformed into a convincing Japanese Nakajima B5N2 “Kate” replica for the 1968 film Tora! Tora! Tora!. Now operated by the Commemorative Air Force, it carries the AII-356 markings associated with the Japanese carrier Akagi.
Vultee BT-13A Valiant, modified as an Aichi D3A “Val” — N56478, BI-78 — EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Originally built in 1941 as a Vultee BT-13A and serving with the USAAF as 41-22926, this aircraft was transformed into a convincing replica of the Japanese Aichi D3A Type 99 “Val” dive bomber for the 1968 film Tora! Tora! Tora!. Now operated by the Commemorative Air Force, it carries the Japanese Navy markings BI-78, representing an aircraft from the carrier Hiryū.
North American B-25J Mitchell “Betty’s Dream” (N5672V) — EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Wearing the markings of wartime B-25J 44-30934 “Betty’s Dream,” this beautifully restored Mitchell displays striking nose artwork featuring a menacing, bat-like figure with prominent fangs, giving the aircraft an appropriately sinister appearance. Behind it, several other B-25 Mitchells form an impressive lineup on the AirVenture flightline.
North American B-25J Mitchell, modified with a solid “strafer” nose — EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Displayed in a period-inspired U.S. Army Air Forces scheme, this Mitchell features invasion stripes that are historically inaccurate for an American B-25 operating in the Mediterranean Theatre, where the USAAF Mitchell groups served in North Africa and Italy rather than taking part in the Normandy invasion.
North American B-25J-35-NC Mitchell “Hot Gen!” (45-8883) — EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. The Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum’s B-25J is seen head-on on the Warbirds flightline, displaying its distinctive nose artwork and the markings of RAF No. 98 Squadron. Although the aircraft carries D-Day invasion stripes, 45-8883 was completed in 1945 and never saw wartime service; the markings commemorate the Canadian airmen who flew B-25s with No. 98 Squadron during the Second World War.
North American B-25J Mitchell “Hot Gen!” (C-GCWM) — EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. A Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum B-25J, 45-8883, stands on the Warbirds flightline while an AirVenture volunteer passes by on his scooter. Rather than concentrating solely on the aircraft, this photograph captures something equally important to Oshkosh—the thousands of volunteers who make AirVenture possible, working throughout the enormous grounds in all kinds of weather to keep aircraft, visitors and the event itself moving.
In the background, more B-25 Mitchells can be seen gathered on the flightline, adding to the wartime atmosphere of the scene.
North American B-25J-35-NC Mitchell “Hot Gen!” (C-GCWM, 45-8883) — EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. A close-up view of the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum’s Mitchell, showing its distinctive “Hot Gen!” nose art, the large red F marking, and the aircraft’s recreated wartime-style markings. The striking pin-up artwork and mission markings give a good impression of the character often associated with restored B-25s displayed at Oshkosh.
Ryan Navion A N5168K taxis past the flight line at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. This handsome 1950 example of the four-seat post-war liaison and touring aircraft displays the Navion’s distinctive sleek lines, retractable undercarriage and fighter-like canopy. Once produced by Ryan Aeronautical, the Navion became one of the classic American light aircraft of the early post-war era.
A beautifully preserved Beechcraft T-34A Mentor rests on the grass at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Wearing its distinctive Chilean Air Force camouflage and the military number 183, this aircraft is construction number CG-152, built by Beechcraft in 1956. It originally served with the Fuerza Aérea de Chile, making its appearance at Oshkosh a particularly colourful reminder of the T-34’s international service career.
A classic Beechcraft T-34A Mentor sits proudly on the grass at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013, finished in the distinctive blue-and-white colours of the U.S. Air Force. Developed from the Beechcraft Bonanza, the T-34 served as the USAF’s primary piston-engine trainer from the early 1950s, introducing generations of pilots to military flying. The compact, tandem-seat Mentor remains one of the most recognisable post-war American training aircraft.
A Fairchild M-62A Cornell sits on the grass at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013 in its striking blue-and-yellow U.S. military trainer colours. Wearing the number 67 and military serial 310154, this 1943-built aircraft represents the type that trained thousands of Allied airmen during the Second World War. The Cornell was designed as a more advanced trainer than the primary trainers used by student pilots, bridging the gap between basic flight instruction and operational aircraft.
A beautifully restored Fairchild PT-19A Cornell, N48671, marked with its original USAAF serial 41-20189 and aircraft number 34, sits on display at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Built in 1941, the PT-19 was one of the principal primary trainers used by the U.S. Army Air Forces during the Second World War. Its distinctive open cockpit and low-wing configuration set it apart from the more familiar Boeing Stearman and Vultee BT-13.
The aircraft is particularly interesting because it had a PT-26-style canopy installed during its civilian career; it was subsequently restored toward a more accurate PT-19 configuration.
Boeing N2S-4 Kaydet N4997V — AirVenture 2013. Built in 1943 as U.S. Navy BuNo. 29992, this Stearman N2S-4 represents the Navy’s wartime primary trainers. Its distinctive yellow-and-blue markings and rugged biplane configuration capture the unmistakable character of the legendary Kaydet, one of the aircraft on which thousands of American military pilots learned to fly.
Boeing-Stearman PT-17 Kaydet N95DA “470” — AirVenture 2013. The rugged Stearman Model 75 was the archetypal American primary trainer of the Second World War, introducing thousands of Army Air Forces and Navy aviators to military flying. This beautifully restored example, wearing its distinctive blue-and-yellow training colours and wartime-style “470” code, was a familiar sight at Oshkosh, where it had already earned AirVenture recognition for its restoration.
A beautifully restored Boeing-Stearman Model 75 Kaydet, carrying the civil registration NC53040 and the wartime-style fuselage number 743, is displayed among the gathering of Stearmans at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. The rugged biplane, with its exposed radial engine, tandem open cockpits and distinctive blue-and-yellow trainer finish, represents the aircraft on which thousands of U.S. Army Air Forces and U.S. Navy pilots received their primary flying training during the Second World War. The Oshkosh control tower in the background adds to the unmistakable AirVenture setting
Stinson L-5E Sentinel, N2745C (USAAF 44-18025), in wartime U.S. Army markings at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. The L-5 Sentinel was a liaison and observation aircraft used extensively by the U.S. military during the Second World War, valued for its ability to operate from short, rough airstrips in support of ground forces.
Taylorcraft L-2B Grasshopper, N47727, at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. A close view through the greenhouse canopy reveals the compact cockpit and straightforward instrument panel of this WWII U.S. Army liaison aircraft. N47727 was one of the outstanding L-Birds at Oshkosh that year, being awarded Best Liaison at AirVenture 2013.
Taylorcraft L-2B Grasshopper, N47727 (USAAF 43-4776), at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Wearing its wartime U.S. Army markings, this beautifully restored Grasshopper represents the lightweight liaison aircraft that provided observation, artillery direction, courier and communications duties from primitive forward airstrips during the Second World War. N47727 was judged Best Liaison at AirVenture 2013.
Curtiss P-40N Warhawk, N1226N, wearing Chinese Air Force markings as “48,” at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. The beautifully restored Warhawk displays the distinctive shark-mouth scheme associated with the American Volunteer Group—the famous Flying Tigers—who operated P-40s in China and Burma during the Second World War. This aircraft was originally built as USAAF 42-105867 and later served with the Royal Canadian Air Force as Kittyhawk Mk.IV 867 before entering civilian ownership.
North American P-51B-1-NA Mustang N551E “Old Crow” — AirVenture 2013, Oshkosh, Wisconsin.
This beautifully restored Mustang, owned by Jack Roush, represents the P-51B flown by Capt. Clarence E. “Bud” Anderson of the 363rd Fighter Squadron, 357th Fighter Group, “Yoxford Boys,” during the Second World War. Anderson named his Mustangs “Old Crow”, and this aircraft carries the distinctive olive-drab camouflage and B6-S markings associated with his wartime mount
Oshkosh, Wisconsin, USA – An information display at EAA AirVenture 2013 recounts the history of the restored North American P-51D Mustang Was That Too Fast (serial number 44-63577). Built in 1944, the fighter served with the United States Army Air Forces before later flying with the Uruguayan Air Force. Following decades in museum and private ownership, the aircraft underwent a comprehensive restoration and returned to the air in July 2013 after more than 50 years.
Oshkosh, Wisconsin, USA. The restored North American P-51D Mustang Was That Too Fast (44-63577) attracts visitors at EAA AirVenture 2013 shortly after its return to flying status. Built by North American Aviation in 1944, the fighter served with the USAAF before post-war service with the Uruguayan Air Force. Its striking shark-mouth nose art and “Foxy Few” insignia honour the heritage of the 12th Fighter-Bomber Squadron.
The Experimental Aircraft Association’s celebrated Boeing B-17G Flying Fortress, Aluminum Overcast passes directly overhead during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. This dramatic underside view showcases the bomber’s immense 103-foot wingspan, four Wright R-1820 Cyclone radial engines, glazed bombardier’s nose, and the robust airframe that made the B-17 one of the most successful heavy bombers of the Second World War. Built by Boeing in 1945 as a B-17G, Aluminum Overcast never saw wartime combat but has since become one of the world’s premier flying ambassadors for the “Greatest Generation.” Operated by the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), it has carried thousands of passengers on commemorative flights while helping preserve the history and legacy of the American strategic bombing campaign. This overhead perspective emphasizes the graceful symmetry and engineering excellence of one of aviation’s most iconic aircraft.
A beautifully restored Canadian Vickers PBY-5A Canso A, registered N427CV, flies past during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Built in Canada as the Royal Canadian Air Force’s version of the legendary Consolidated PBY Catalina, the Canso combined long range, exceptional endurance, and amphibious capability, enabling operations from both conventional airfields and open water. During the Second World War, Cansos served with the Royal Canadian Air Force in anti-submarine warfare, maritime reconnaissance, convoy escort, search and rescue, and transport duties, helping safeguard Allied shipping across the North Atlantic. After the war, many continued distinguished civilian careers in aerial surveying, firefighting, cargo transport, and humanitarian missions. This side profile beautifully showcases the aircraft’s unmistakable flying-boat hull, parasol wing, twin Pratt & Whitney R-1830 Twin Wasp radial engines, and retractable landing gear—hallmarks of one of history’s most versatile and successful maritime patrol aircraft.
The beautifully restored Canadian Vickers PBY-5A Canso A, N427CV, flies gracefully beneath dramatic summer clouds during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. Built in Canada as the Royal Canadian Air Force’s version of the famous Consolidated PBY Catalina, the Canso became one of the Allied forces’ most versatile maritime patrol aircraft during the Second World War. Equipped with twin Pratt & Whitney R-1830 Twin Wasp radial engines, the amphibious flying boat carried out anti-submarine patrols, convoy escort, maritime reconnaissance, air-sea rescue, and transport missions over the vast expanses of the Atlantic and Pacific. After military service, many Cansos found second careers in civilian roles, including aerial surveying, cargo transport, firefighting, and humanitarian operations in remote regions. The striking red, white, and blue trim evokes the aircraft’s historic service heritage, while the photograph’s dramatic cloud backdrop emphasizes the timeless elegance of one of aviation’s most iconic flying boats. Captured in flight at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013, this image celebrates both the enduring legacy of the Canso and the dedication of those who continue to preserve these remarkable aircraft for future generations.
Schweizer S-300 light helicopter towing an American flag over EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. The compact Schweizer cruises above the AirVenture grounds with the Stars and Stripes streaming below, set against a dramatic Wisconsin summer sky.
Short S.312 Tucano T.1 ZF136 (N613AL) performs during the 2013 EAA AirVenture air show at Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Formerly an RAF advanced trainer, this Tucano had passed into private ownership and retained its distinctive black-and-gold RAF-style finish. In 2013 it was flown by renowned aerobatic pilot Patty Wagstaff, demonstrating the Tucano’s impressive handling and performance before the AirVenture crowds.
Short S.312 Tucano T.1 ZF136 (N613AL) passes overhead during the 2013 EAA AirVenture air show at Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Formerly an RAF advanced trainer, ZF136 was privately owned by this time and retained its distinctive RAF black-and-gold colour scheme and markings. The Tucano was flown by aerobatic champion Patty Wagstaff during the AirVenture flying display.
Gene Soucy’s Grumman G-164 Ag-Cat “Showcat” performs during the 2013 EAA AirVenture air show at Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Originally designed as an agricultural aircraft, the Ag-Cat was extensively modified for airshow work, including a two-seat cockpit, clipped wings, smoke system and wing-walking equipment. Soucy developed the Showcat into a spectacular aerobatic and wing-walking aircraft, performing with Teresa Stokes.
Gene Soucy’s Grumman G-164 Ag-Cat “Showcat” performs at the 2013 EAA AirVenture air show at Oshkosh, Wisconsin, trailing a spectacular column of smoke as it passes overhead. The highly modified agricultural biplane was developed by Soucy into a purpose-built aerobatic and wing-walking aircraft. Teresa Stokes can be seen on the right wing during the performance.
The vivid underside view captures the aircraft’s distinctive yellow-and-red colour scheme, radial engine and wing-walking rig, with the smoke adding dramatic effect to the display.
Gene Soucy’s Grumman G-164 Ag-Cat “Showcat” approaches during the 2013 EAA AirVenture air show at Oshkosh, Wisconsin, with wing-walker Teresa Stokes standing on the upper wing. Soucy and Stokes performed their celebrated wing-walking act throughout AirVenture 2013.
Gene Soucy’s Grumman G-164 Ag-Cat “Showcat” rolls dramatically through its aerobatic routine during the 2013 EAA AirVenture air show at Oshkosh, Wisconsin, trailing a dense plume of white smoke. Wing-walker Teresa Stokes is visible on the upper wing as the aircraft passes through the manoeuvre.
Gene Soucy’s Grumman G-164 Ag-Cat “Showcat” passes overhead during the 2013 EAA AirVenture air show at Oshkosh, Wisconsin, with wing-walker Teresa Stokes standing on the upper wing. The highly modified Ag-Cat, transformed by Soucy for aerobatics and wing-walking, was a distinctive and popular feature of the AirVenture flying displays.
Gene Soucy’s Grumman G-164 Ag-Cat “Showcat” passes in a three-quarter rear view during the 2013 EAA AirVenture air show at Oshkosh, Wisconsin, with wing-walker Teresa Stokes standing on the upper-wing platform. The brightly painted yellow-and-red aircraft carries “Gene Soucy” prominently on the fuselage, while the spinning radial engine and distinctive wing-walking rig are clearly visible.
Gene Soucy’s Grumman G-164 Ag-Cat “Showcat” approaches during the 2013 EAA AirVenture air show at Oshkosh, Wisconsin, with professional wing-walker Teresa Stokes standing on the upper-wing platform. The spectacularly modified former agricultural aircraft was purpose-built for airshow aerobatics and wingwalking, with a 450-hp Pratt & Whitney R-985 radial engine and a dedicated wing-walker stand.