For the second time in three years, the CV-22 “Osprey” – one of the most unique aircraft flown by the U.S. military – is scheduled to appear at EAA AirVenture. The CV-22, an Air Force-modified version of the U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey, is the world’s first production tiltrotor aircraft. It is able to serve effectively on missions that had previously been covered by either helicopters or twin turboprop aircraft. The CV-22 is designed to conduct long-range infiltration, exfiltration and resupply missions for special operations forces. The versatility of the Osprey allows it to take off and land similar to a helicopter, then turn its rotors 90 degrees to serve as a high-speed turboprop airplane.

The Osprey, which made its AirVenture debut in 2008, is scheduled to arrive on Friday, July 30, and depart on Sunday, August 1. The appearance will feature both flight demonstrations and ground displays of the aircraft, which is based at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico.

“The Osprey was an extremely popular attraction when it debuted at AirVenture in 2008,” said Tom Poberezny, EAA chairman/president and AirVenture chairman. “We are delighted to be bringing back the Osprey for thousands of aviation enthusiasts, as well give those who missed out in 2008 another opportunity to take in this impressive, unique aircraft.”

The CV-22, which achieved initial operating capability in 2009, is the latest addition to the large and diverse gathering of current military that flies to EAA AirVenture each year. Those aircraft provide flying demonstrations and ground exhibits for AirVenture attendees, and helps make the wide spectrum of aircraft that gather for public display at Oshkosh unmatched anywhere else in the world.