Historic Aircraft to Showcase at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026
Oshkosh, Wisconsin, will host the only public U.S. air show appearance of two iconic aircraft restorations from Austria’s The Flying Bulls collection in 2026. Scheduled for July 20-26 during the 73rd edition of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s (EAA) fly-in convention, these aircraft include a Douglas DC-6B and a Lockheed P-38 Lightning. This exciting announcement was made on December 10 at the International Council of Air Shows convention in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Details of the Featured Aircraft
The featured aircraft have remarkable histories that underscore their significance in the aviation field:
- Lockheed P-38 Lightning: Currently the only flying example of this model in Europe, the P-38 is a notable twin-tail fighter developed during World War II. It was transported from America to Europe and is now showcased at The Flying Bulls' Hangar-7 in Salzburg, Austria.
- Douglas DC-6B: Built in 1958, this aircraft saw service with Yugoslavian airline JAT before being sold as a luxury personal transport. Abandoned in Lusaka, Zambia, it was rescued by The Flying Bulls in 2000 after a comprehensive three-year restoration.
Quotes from The Flying Bulls Leadership
Eskil Ambal, CEO of The Flying Bulls, expressed excitement over their participation, stating, "The moment has arrived - we are crossing the Atlantic and we’re coming to Oshkosh. Our ride across the Atlantic is in a DC-6, just as she was meant to do. But we couldn’t let her go alone. You never, ever, ever leave your wingman. So the P-38 is coming with her."
Rick Larsen, a representative from EAA, emphasized the significance of their appearance, remarking, "The Flying Bulls aircraft are another example of the world coming to Oshkosh to celebrate flight every summer. These airplanes are among the finest restorations of their type anywhere on earth."
The Flying Bulls Legacy
The Flying Bulls collection, founded by Tyrolean Airlines pilot Sigi Angerer in the 1980s, boasts over 40 aircraft ranging from World War II fighters to modern helicopters. With support from Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz, The Flying Bulls officially launched in 1999. Their commitment to both technical excellence and stunning aesthetics has established them as stars in the aviation community.
What to Expect at EAA AirVenture 2026
The Flying Bulls' aircraft will be prominently displayed at the Boeing Plaza during EAA AirVenture and featured in the afternoon air shows, offering attendees a unique opportunity to witness these remarkable restorations in action.
About EAA AirVenture Oshkosh
EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is renowned as “The World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration” and serves as the EAA’s membership convention. For additional details, including ticket purchases and camping options, visit www.EAA.org/airventure. For inquiries regarding EAA and its programs, please call 800-JOIN-EAA (800-564-6322) or visit www.EAA.org.
Contact Information
For media inquiries, please contact:
Dick Knapinski
EAA
Phone: 920-426-6523
Email: dknapinski@eaa.org