AirVenture Crowd Numbers Hold Up Despite Fuel Prices

There had been some concern that soaring fuel prices would dampen the enthusiasm for this year's EAA AirVenture show in Oshkosh. Blessed by near-perfect weather, however, show officials report that attendance roughly matched that of last year. It's difficult to assess true, accurate attendance numbers, because many attend the week-long event for several days. However, a straw poll of veteran vendors led to the conclusion that enthusiasm for the show has not waned, despite the high price of getting there -- whether by air or by land. Many regular showgoers drive long distances to feast their eyes on the latest in sport aviation.