The Air Camper is 80!

Bernard Pietenpol would, according to those who knew him, think that a celebration like this is much to do about nothing. Pietenpol was a quiet, unpretentious man. Bernard was a handyman, not so uncommon in his day, who designed, built, and flew several airplanes. One design, the Pietenpol Air Camper, has withstood the test of time. In fact, one might say that it has excelled as time has passed.

2009 Pietenpol Reunion Brodhead Wisconsin

The 34th Annual Pietenpol Reunion, hosted by EAA Chapter 431 of Brodhead, Wisconsin, is just the first part of a 10-day celebration of the design’s 80th year. This year’s reunion, like its predecessors, consists of aviation minded folks gathering to talk, fly, eat, and learn. Pietenpol is the common thread. Reverence for the man is evident everywhere.

The reunion began on Thursday, July 23 and continues through tomorrow, July 26. Air Campers from across the country have been making their way to Brodhead, some delayed by weather, none losing sight of their destination.

Today, there were 17 Air Campers on the rustic Brodhead Airport (C37). While more were expected, many other aircraft types, along with RVs, travel trailers, and tents, were also in attendance. Today’s schedule was a full one. Pietenpol rides were given throughout the day as were rides in other antique and classic aircraft. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner were available through the EAA chapter. A total of seven forums were conducted. Others hawked their wares – aircraft parts, books, DVDs, and T-shirts all had a Pietenpol connection.

Pietenpol Air Camper

The Brodhead Pietenpol Association was there – registering participants, signing up new members, coordinating the forums and conducting the prize giveaway. A big thank you to Dee and Doc Mosher who quietly make things happen. The organization has grown to more than 750 members worldwide, due in no small part to the BPA newsletter and the Moshers.

The celebration will continue during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2009. A mass arrival, consisting of about 15 Air Campers, will occur around 0900 on Sunday. The aircraft will park in a group in the Homebuilders area, due east of the federal pavillion. A Pietenpol forum will take place on Tuesday, July 28. A showcase flight will include 5 examples of Air Campers, each with a different type of engine. In addition, the BPA will have an exhibit in the Type Club Building.

William Wynne, a forum presenter today, said about builders of the Pietenpol, “you have arrived at the correct destination.” Bernard Pietenpol arrived far ahead of us. He looked to design an easy to build, easy to fly, and affordable airplane. After 80 years, the Air Camper is still the correct destination.