Final Season: USAF A-10 Warthogs' Epic Farewell at EAA Oshkosh 2024

U.S. Air Force Maj. Cody "ShIV" Wilton, the A-10 Warthog Demonstration Team commander and pilot, releases flares at the 2020 Fort LauderdalePhoto byPublic Domain

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Last year, I attended EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, but I could only spend one day at the iconic event, which lasts a week.

The Experimental Aircraft Association, Inc. (EAA) hosts the show every year. It is the largest airshow in the United States. Known colloquially as Oshkosh, this annual event attracts over 600,000 people and hosts over 10,000 aircraft each year, making it the world's largest gathering of aviation enthusiasts. There is just so much to see, but

One special aircraft stands out...

The U.S. Air Force’s A-10 Demo Team is gearing up for its grand finale at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh from July 22 to July 25. Don't miss this chance to witness their iconic maneuvers, as this will be the final season of their air show performances. The Republic A-10 Thunderbolt II, affectionately nicknamed the Warthog due to its rugged and formidable appearance, has earned a cherished place in the hearts of aviation enthusiasts for its agility and distinctive sound.

This legendary ground-attack aircraft is flown by the A-10 Demo Team, based at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base and commanded by Maj. Lindsay “MAD” Johnson. She pilots the Warthog at air shows nationwide, demonstrating its unparalleled ability to perform close air support missions. The A-10 Demo Team will showcase its precise handling, low-altitude flying, and impressive firepower at Oshkosh, providing an unforgettable spectacle that pays homage to the aircraft's historic role in the U.S. Air Force.

Stories abound about the a-10 reputation for being able to withstand severe damage.

The A-10 possesses resilience absent in fast jets. Unlike the fuselage of supersonic jets from the F-100 to the F-35, which is essentially a blowtorch surrounded by fuel, the A-10’s design avoids this vulnerability.

The Warthog was crafted with attention to detail to withstand damage, surpassing any other aircraft in history. This is attributed to its purpose in close support missions. Its design incorporates elements such as keeping fuel separate from engines, having fire suppression systems, and each tank featuring manually operated cable flight controls positioned far apart. Titanium armor surrounds the pilot's seat and redundant main spars. These attributes guarantee its ability to endure impacts during combat engagements.

Join fellow aviation fans to witness this final chapter and celebrate the Warthog’s storied legacy at one of the world's largest aviation gatherings.