The world's most famous air show is canceled, thanks to COVID

OSHKOSH, Wis. (WLUK) -- One of Northeast Wisconsin's largest summer events has been canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic.

EAA is canceling the 2020 AirVenture fly-in convention. It was scheduled for July 20-26 in Oshkosh.

"We looked at every possibility over the past six weeks as to how EAA could move forward with AirVenture this year, because it is such an important reunion for the aviation community," Jack Pelton, EAA CEO and board chairman, said in a news release. "The current status in Wisconsin is that it is still under a stay at home order until May 26, which completely eliminates our ability to start grounds preparation May 1. The reopening of the state also has no specific dates, creating uncertainty about mass gatherings in July. Ultimately, preserving the health and safety of all who would attend – and all the varying guidelines between states and countries from where our participants arrive – along with the massive commitments needed now for an event to meet EAA’s high standards, made cancellation the only option for this year."

Those who have already bought tickets or made camping reservations for AirVenture can use them for 2021 or receive a refund. EAA says it will contact those people within two weeks to discuss options.

Pelton says EAA leaders are disappointed but are looking forward to the 2021 event, which is scheduled for July 26-Aug. 1.

In 2019, EAA reported attendance of 642,000 people, though visitors are counted multiple times if they attend multiple da