Appleton Flight Center back up airport for AirVenture

(Appleton, Wis.) July 9, 2026–The Appleton Flight Center may not be the busiest airport in the world during EAA AirVenture, but it will be close. As the nearest private airport to Wittman Field in Oshkosh, the Appleton Flight center will host almost 300 aircraft daily over the course of the days leading up to and during AirVenture 2026. In 2025 EAA related traffic increased 75% over normal daily air traffic and airport officials predict 2026 will be busier.

“We host many of the large businesses and organizations displaying aircraft during the show,” said Appleton International Airport Director Abe Weber. “Our private airfield is only 20 minutes from the EAA and we make it easy and convenient to get to the show grounds.”

The flight center offers ramp parking for larger aircraft, grass parking for smaller aircraft and plenty of hangar space. The team offers high-touch customer services such as ground transportation, a shuttle service to the EAA grounds, and fueling/aircraft support on site.

“Our team greets every arrival planeside to welcome pilots and passengers and identify their needs,” said Bob Woods, Appleton Flight Center director. “We’re proud that so many pilots choose to call the Appleton Flight Center home during AirVenture and it isn’t just because of the free ice cream, its due to the complete service from landing to take-off .”

In addition to serving private pilots, the Appleton Flight Center is the back-up emergency airport in case of bad weather or any emergency during EAA.

During the EAA Fly-In, the Appleton Flight Center will host a variety of activities for the general public and media.

Jessica Cox, the world’s first licensed pilot without arms: Media is invited to interview Jessica Monday afternoon, July 20 at 2 p.m. at the Appleton Flight Center. She is known worldwide as the first licensed armless pilot in history. Cox is a highly accomplished motivational speaker, disability rights advocate, and on a greater mission for people with disabilities. She has been spearheading the development of “The Impossible Airplane”—a custom-built, 4-seat aircraft designed to be flown entirely by foot.  Born without arms due to a rare birth defect, she uses her feet to navigate life, including flying a specially modified 1946 Ercoupe aircraft, and holds a 4th-degree black belt in Taekwondo. For complete information on her biography, foundation, and The Impossible Plane, please visit this link.

Flying Legends Tour: The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) will sponsor the Flying Legends Tour at the Appleton Flight Center from July 21-July 26. This event showcases two historic World War II plans that are still in operation and are living examples of combat history. According to organizers, there are only two flying B-17s left in the United States flying right now and the B-17 Sentimental Journey will be on display.  The B-25 Maid in the Shade will also be at the Flight Center and is one of 34 still flying today. The general public may tour the planes Tuesday July 21, 9 a.m. — 5 p.m. and Wednesday July 22–Sunday, July 26, 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. The CAF will also offer rides on the two planes Wednesday-Sunday weather permitting. Rides are between $375/person to $850/person, seating is limited, and reservations must be made online at this link.

For more information about the Appleton Flight Center, please visit this link.