The airplanes are returning to Oshkosh

For over a week now, many, many aircraft of all types have been flying over our home on their way to the annual ritual known as "EAA Airventure" in Oshkosh. The constant buzz from sunrise to sunset is really somewhat soothing, although I would probably tire of it after awhile. 10 days or so a year are no sweat. Our little city is about 20 minutes from the airport where the show/convention takes place, so its a waypoint for many aircraft. The Wittman Airport in Oshkosh is at this time the worlds busiest airport, not kidding. Every airport in the area is filled with aircraft and people from around the world attend this event. Last year, Spaceship One made its first public appearance after its recording setting flight to claim the X-Prize. This year some guy brought a jet pack that would allow you to go 30 miles or so. The demo was a bust really because all that was demoed was it flying a few inches off the ground and a ground crew kept it tethered with ropes. He only wants a $100K for each jetpack. This is mecca for pilots and those in the aviation industry. For the rest of us, its plan cool. All kinds of aircraft including seaplanes, ultralights, old warbirds, many different types of private aircraft from old to new. There was one of the finest surviving examples of the Submarine Spitfire aircraft. There are rides on an old Ford Trimotor (about $50-60) and B-17 ride ($500+, while I did not go this year, I can truthfully say its a great ride).
One intriguing aircraft was the Nanchang CJ-6, an old Chinese piston built warbird. Its been sold to a number of American pilots who told me that its a well designed and built aircraft and they love to fly it. One pilot/owner showed me an access panel where the chief designer had signed his name and wrote "happy flying" in Chinese. The group of CJ-6's flew formation during the airshow and it was quite impressive. I had a great time, but was tired by the time I came home.