Ford Motor Company continues its second decade as the exclusive automotive partner for EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2010, and the center of action is the Ford Hangar, just off AeroShell Square.
Stop in to see some of the latest advances in automobile technology, as well as many of the industry’s most revered classics. And throughout the week Ford will provide a number of events and attractions, free and open to all AirVenture attendees. For EAA members, Ford offers a special Partner Recognition vehicle purchase plan resulting in significant discounts on new vehicle purchases.
“Showcasing our strong roots in aviation, while honoring the rich history of innovation it has inspired in our vehicles, is something Ford Motor Company looks forward to every year,” said Edsel B. Ford II, a member of Ford’s board of directors. “Whether the subject is airplanes or automobiles, EAA AirVenture fans share with Ford an unparalleled passion for cutting-edge technology and engineering prowess.”
Rockin’ with Chicago!
Today Ford presents legendary American rock band Chicago as the EAA AirVenture opening day feature performance, free of charge to all AirVenture guests. Concert activities will begin at 5:30 p.m., July 26, in AeroShell Square, adjacent to the Ford Hangar. Chicago is one of the longest performing and most successful U.S. pop/rock and roll groups, selling more than 120 million albums worldwide. Over the course of the group’s career, Chicago has charted five No. 1 albums and 21 top ten hits.
Aviation-Inspired One-Off Mustang SR-71 “Blackbird” Auction
Two automotive icons—legendary racer and manufacturer Carroll Shelby, and world-renowned racer, engineer, and designer Jack Roush—have come together in their first vehicle collaboration project to join Ford in creating a one-off 2011 Mustang, the aviation-themed SR-71 “Blackbird.” The unique vehicle will be sold at auction July 29 at the Gathering of Eagles gala event to benefit the EAA Young Eagles program.
Ford also has donated a 2011 Mustang GT Convertible to be awarded to one lucky EAA AirVenture attendee in a raffle also supporting the Young Eagles.
Ford Presents the “Fly-In Theater”
Ford Motor Company returns this year as presenting sponsor of the EAA AirVenture “Fly-In Theater.” With generous support from Hamilton Watches, the open-air Fly-In Theater offers evening family entertainment free for attendees. Located adjacent to Camp Scholler, each evening at approximately 8:30 p.m., thousands of patrons will watch free aviation-themed movies on the theater’s five-story screen while sitting under the night sky. Each feature will be introduced by a celebrity presenter or legendary aviator.
Edsel B. Ford II hosts Wednesday, July 28, when the theater welcomes Chesley B. “Sully” Sullenberger III and co-pilot Jeff Skiles—the heroic flight crew who safely landed US Airways Flight 1549 on the Hudson in January 2009—before showing “Brace for Impact: The Chesley B. Sullenberger Story.” Sully and Skiles are also co-chairmen of the EAA Young Eagles program. (See the rest of the week’s movie lineup in the Daily Highlights page each day in AirVenture Today.)
Cruisin’ Legends Collector Car Show
AirVenture guests can meet proud owners and view some of the world’s most timeless, pristinely-restored Ford Motor Company vehicles at the Cruisin’ Legends car show on the grounds of Wittman Regional Airport. Guests can also attend Hot Rod Heaven and the Mustang Stampede, visit the Shelby American Club and Owners, see the Fabulous Thunderbirds, or tour the Roush Flight Line display. The show will feature cars from clubs across the Midwest. Clubs attend different days throughout the week. Admission is free for AirVenture guests.
Model T Time
Henry Ford’s Model T revolutionized the consumer automobile industry in 1908. Ford celebrates the innovation with a parade of fully-functional Model Ts, and attendees can participate Thursday, July 29, by browsing an incredible collection of the vehicles, and taking rides in any of several Model Ts on site with members of the Model T Ford Club of America. It begins at 10 a.m. at the EAA Museum entrance.
Other Attractions
Ford Hangar visitors can engage in various interactive exhibits, demonstrating the latest Ford “Smart,” “Quality,” “Green,” and “Safe” innovations, all guided by Hangar Master Narrator “Hank” the Robot. Featured attractions include:
- The Mustang Corral, which contains production and race vehicles, a P-51 Mustang, and a mechanical bucking bronco and Western show.
- The Built Ford Tough Territory hosts the Vertical Wind Tunnel and Rock Climbing Wall, while Electric Avenue displays the latest advances in Powertrain technology and offers Active Park Assist “hands-free” parallel parking demos.
- The Ford Hangar also will serve as “Autograph HQ” with celebrity aviation enthusiasts and aviation legends, as well as other special guests on site at various times during the event, interacting with fans and signing autographs. Personalities scheduled to appear include Carroll Shelby, Jack Roush, and many of the air show performers. (See Daily Highlights page.)
Additionally, Ford Hangar guests will have the opportunity to receive a free “Built Ford Tough” cowboy hat and purchase Ford clothing and other commemorative items.
Follow Ford EAA AirVenture news on Twitter at www.twitter.com/FordAirVenture or visit www.FordAirVenture.com.
