July 30, 2009 - Oshkosh, Wisconsin  - As EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2009 reaches its midpoint, the event's international scope is clearly evident: the origins of features, attractions, exhibits, attendees, and even regulatory discussions span the globe. Suitably, EAA and AERO Friedrichshafen, the organizers of Europe's major annual general-aviation exhibition and trade show, today announced at AirVenture an agreement for richer collaboration in the years ahead.

The agreement gives each organization greater visibility and participation in the other's annual event, including a heightened profile in the event's presentations, gatherings, exhibit areas, signage, collateral, publications, and online communications through the year 2012.

"Both organizations understand the global significance of our respective events, and the need to promote general aviation in our local communities, across our nations, and throughout the world," said Tom Poberezny, EAA president and AirVenture chairman.

"The future holds the promise of both difficulties and breakthroughs for general aviation. Working together and uniting with general aviation advocates across the globe, we will be better positioned to overcome challenges and seize opportunities," he said.

"With this agreement we'll be able to improve benefits to EAA members attending AERO and recruit new aviation enthusiasts to join EAA. We'll also strengthen relationships with general aviation manufacturers, vendors, service providers, and customers abroad. Perhaps most importantly, we'll be able to compare notes, relate experiences, exchange ideas, and join forces among the broad community of aviation enthusiasts worldwide," Poberezny added.

Thomas Grunewald, AERO project director, also focused on strength through collaboration. "We want to keep working together as partners to meet the challenges that lie ahead for general aviation. It's particularly important during economically difficult times to build alliances, to stay focused, and to battle for a return to normal market conditions," he said.