Hundreds of aviation enthusiasts from Australia and New Zealand will be making a joint pilgrimage next July, landing in a 747 jetliner at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2010, "The World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration," in a group trip dubbed the "Oshkosh Express." AirVenture 2010, the 58th annual EAA fly-in convention, will take place July 26-August 1 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh.

The Oshkosh Express charter flights from "Down Under" first took place more than 20 years ago, but the 2010 charter is the first in a 747 since 1998. Several hundred EAA members from that region of the globe are making the long journey from their home countries to participate in what is commonly known as "aviation’s family reunion."

"The enthusiasm of those who were a part of past Oshkosh Express journeys made their arrival a highlight of the year at Oshkosh," said Tom Poberezny, EAA president and AirVenture chairman. "The ability to have such charter flights also shows the draw EAA AirVenture and Oshkosh are for people around the world. We welcome them and everyone with a passion for flight to join us this summer along the flight line."

The Oshkosh Express group will travel from Sydney, Australia to Auckland, New Zealand, then on to Los Angeles before landing at AirVenture. They are expected to arrive at Oshkosh on opening day – Monday, July 26 – in an Air New Zealand 747. They will stay throughout the week, and many of those visitors will also extend their visits to the U.S. following AirVenture.

The Oshkosh Express is organized by Avtours Australia, which organizes charters for aviation groups throughout the year. More information about this year’s Oshkosh trip can be found at the company’s website at www.avtours.com.au.

"A trip to Oshkosh is a dream for anyone who loves airplanes and flying," said Bob Phillips of Avtours Australia. "For many people joining us, it will be a once-in-lifetime trip, made even more special by enjoying it with a group of like-minded people from home. Oshkosh is famed for its hospitality and we’re very excited to be part of the event in 2010!"