Oshkosh 2008

Last year I took my Twin Comanche on its first long trip to AirVenture 2008. It was the second year for me. It really is amazing the different places you get to see simply because you own an airplane. This year we departed from Princeton, N.J. into marginal VFR weather en-route to Ohio. We had a weather diversion, but we eventually ended up in Sandusky, OH prior to our final destination. By the time we reached Sandustky, it was an hour prior to dusk, and it was a nice picturesque end to our long trip. Once fueled up we headed to an island in Lake Erie called Put-In-Bay. We were all disappointed that we didn't come here earlier in the day, as the island seemed really cool. Most people get around the island in golf carts. I guess the bizarre aspect of all this was the place had an "island" feel - yet we were in the middle of the country. Anyway, we had dinner at a nice restaurant, ate outside, and because there are not many cars here - we didn't have to deal with the noisy automobiles whizzing by the restaurant. It real was a great find for us. The plan is to go back this year. You can rent a golf cart at the airport - just land before dark because the airport closes after dusk. After Put-In Bay we flew VFR and headed to Oshkosh. Due to a crash at Oshkosh, we had to stop 30 miles short of our destination. After a short delay, we headed to AirVenture.

As usual, everyone flying with us was directed to "look for other planes" to avoid a mid-air collision. It was fun flying into Oshkosh for the second year in a row. This year I camped - I never liked it as a kid, and I certainly don't like it as an adult. Being right next to the Johnny On The Spot's was a real treat. Especially at 2am when they are being emptied. By the way, you just have not experienced life until you do "serious business" in one of these things in 95 degree weather. I find that 100% humidity really accentuates the perfume like smell. I have decided this year I am getting a room. Our flight to Oshkosh is memorialized on YouTube at the following link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gma39oW_x2o&feature=channel_page

Once again, Oshkosh was a blast. If you are a pilot, you need to make the trip at least once. I think the best part is hanging out and being with like-minded people that love avation. Every kind of airplane is there, every vendor associated with aviation is there, and people come here from all over the globe. Ultralights, vintage aircraft, war birds, jets, military planes, Cubs and Light Sport - Oshkosh has it all!!

Hopefully the pictures covey some of the fun we had in Oshkosh....