This article is based on an official press release from Boeing.

Boeing Renews Platinum Sponsorship of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh Through 2028

On January 5, 2026, Boeing [NYSE: BA] announced a three-year renewal of its Platinum Level sponsorship with the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) for the annual AirVenture Oshkosh fly-in convention. According to the company’s official statement, this agreement ensures Boeing’s continued presence at the “World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration” through the 2028 event.

The renewal encompasses two primary pillars of the AirVenture experience, the retention of naming rights for the central Boeing Plaza and the continued funding of free admission for all attendees aged 18 and younger. The agreement reinforces the aerospace giant’s long-standing relationship with the EAA, which began formalized support in 2011.

Anchoring the “Heartbeat” of Oshkosh

Under the terms of the renewed agreement, Boeing will retain the naming rights to the event’s marquee display area, known as Boeing Plaza. Located at the center of the flight line, this area serves as the primary stage for the week’s most significant aircraft, ranging from rare warbirds and military prototypes to massive cargo haulers.

Jack Pelton, CEO and Chairman of the EAA, highlighted the importance of this central hub in the organization’s press statement:

“Boeing has been a valued partner to EAA over the years. Boeing Plaza has become the heartbeat of AirVenture, and their support of the youth admission has given nearly 500,000 kids the opportunity to explore the incredible world of aviation over the past three years. We are so grateful to see this partnership continue.”

Investing in the Next Generation

A critical component of the sponsorship is the continuation of the free youth admission program. First launched in 2021, this initiative allows anyone age 18 and under to attend AirVenture at no cost. According to data released by Boeing and the EAA, this specific program has facilitated nearly 500,000 youth admissions since its inception, removing financial barriers for families and aspiring aviators.

Chris Raymond, President and CEO of Boeing Global Services, emphasized the strategic value of engaging young people in the aviation ecosystem:

“The participation in AirVenture continues to grow not only within general aviation but also in the commercial, business, and military sectors. It’s an ideal stage to showcase Boeing’s diverse products and services. EAA has an impressive global reach with an immense community and helps inspire the next generation of aviation professionals.”

Additional Programmatic Support

Beyond the plaza and admission fees, the press release details Boeing’s involvement in several specific educational and community programs at the event:

• WomenVenture: Boeing will serve as the Presenting Sponsor for programs designed to connect and inspire women in the aviation industry.
• KidVenture: The company will continue to back this interactive area where children learn hands-on aviation skills, such as riveting and rib building.
• Airline Crew Check-in: Boeing will sponsor the designated hub for commercial airline crews attending the convention.

AirPro News analysis

While sponsorship renewals are standard corporate procedure, the specific focus of this agreement highlights a critical industry objective: workforce development. By subsidizing youth admission, Boeing is effectively investing in a long-term recruitment pipeline. The aviation industry continues to face projections of pilot and technician shortages; removing barriers to entry at the world’s largest aviation gathering is a calculated move to spark early interest in aerospace careers.

Furthermore, maintaining high-visibility branding at the “heartbeat” of the general aviation community allows Boeing to stabilize its public image among grassroots aviators and enthusiasts, a demographic that remains influential despite being distinct from the company’s primary commercial airline customers.

Event Details for 2026

The upcoming EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is scheduled to take place from July 20–26, 2026, at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The event is historically known for transforming the local control tower into the busiest in the world during the convention week, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors from nearly 90 countries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Platinum Sponsorship cover?
It covers naming rights for Boeing Plaza, free admission for youths 18 and under, and sponsorship of WomenVenture and KidVenture programs.

How long is the new agreement?
The agreement spans three years, covering the 2026, 2027, and 2028 events.

Who is eligible for free admission?
All attendees aged 18 and younger are eligible for free daily admission, supported by Boeing.

Sources: Boeing Media Room