Homebuilders Hangar Dedicated On AirVenture Grounds

By Chris Batchellor

AirVenture now has a dedicated hangar for homebuilt aircraft in the "old NASA pavilion" located next to the government pavilion. The hanger was formally dedicated Monday night by EAA President Tom Poberezny. The hangar's sponsor is Aircraft Spruce and Speciality, a supplier of homebuilder materials, tools and pilot supplies. Outside the hangar were a Sonex by Robert Carson, a Kitfox with a Radial Engine by John McBean, an RV-12 by John Nines and the Maverick Flying Car by Steve Saint.

Jim Irwin

The hangar features several homebuilt aircraft including a partly finished Vision by Pro Composites and a Chapter 1279 Pietenpol Aircamper. The homebuilders hangar is a place where homebuilders can get together and the heart of this hanger is activity based.

Adorning the rafters of the hanger are banners for each of the 140 past grand champions with a picture and the name of the builder. The hangar also has several of the EAA's homebuilders benches which will like.

The Jim Irwin and his family of Aircraft Spruce and Speciality was on hand for the dedication. Jim commented that wanted to "thanks everyone for coming out and this is a thrill to be be a part of". Tom thanked Jim and is family for providing "outstanding" service to the homebuilt industry.

Tom Poberezny Reads Letter From Burt Rutan

Tom Poberezny read a statement from Burt that said "It's amazing how much of the early Oshkosh remains" he went on to say "I look forward to the new stuff that emerges every year".

So stop by the homebuilders hangar and check out all the activities.

FMI: www.eaa.org