ANN Plans Coverage Of Innovation, Renewal, And Activism At Oshkosh

We often talk about aviation as an "industry," something monolithic with a lot of inertia. And while there are many aspects to aviation that do fall into that category, one of our goals at AirVenture this year is to uncover ways that those of us who participate in flying at every level are shaping the future of this thing that we love.

To that end, while we will be working to bring you all of the latest product announcements and updates from the hundreds of exhibitors and participants at the show this year, we also want to be sure that you're informed of what's going on in three areas of aviation:

• Innovation - Building a New and TRULY Fresh Future
• Renewal - Remember Who and What Got Us Here
• Activism - Rebuild the Aero-Community and Invigorate Them For The Challenges Ahead

You've probably already heard that there are several innovative aircraft that will be on display at Wittman Regional Airport this year, from new electric-powered ultralights to the Transition, which may be a solid step towards the "flying car" we've been talking about almost since 1903. But innovation happens in other arenas as well, from newer, lighter avionics that reduce cockpit workload in nearly every category of aircraft to testing underway by Piper for the use of 93UL auto fuel in its production airplanes. But the costs of entry are still high, and other barriers exist that threaten GA. To borrow a phrase from TSA (sorry, Zoom), if you see something, say something ... to us. We'll be looking for the stories that will make a difference in getting aviation off to a bright future.

At the same time, we need to remember how we came to be where we are, and take the best the past and apply it to the future.

But perhaps most important is activism. The recent bullying ... we can't think of a better description ... of EAA by the FAA over ATC fees for AirVenture is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the challenges that face GA. How many smaller events will simply not be able to pay if the FAA comes just weeks before they open and present organizers with a bill and an ultimatum? Certification needs to be dealt with, and the recent passage by the U.S. House of the Small Airplane Revitalization Act is certainly a step in the right direction. But the U.S. Senate needs encouragement to pass the companion bill. Activism needs to be pursued every day of the year, not just during the week of Oshkosh -- and when it comes to dealing with Washington, or state and local governments, many voices are heard far more loudly than a few.

The attitude of "that's just the way it is" is one of defeat and failure, and those who will take the time and spend the money to travel to Wisconsin in the summer are certainly the front line troops in a movement to change that perception.

All that to say that we hope to be your voice in these important areas. Drop us a note with your ideas. We'll be offering Oshkosh attendees an opportunity to appear on Aero-TV in segments that will carry these important messages.

We seem to stand at another critical juncture for sport and general aviation. We know it can be better. We hope you'll help us make that goal a reality.

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