OSH and older pilots

[ExtraKatana]

Originally Posted by ppilotmike

David,

I too have noticed an increase of motorized vehicles in the grounds at OSH over the years. While I understand the needs of some people dictate the use of a motorized scooter, I am unhappy about the increased numbers of vehicles now populating the grounds.

In years past, it seemed that EAA volunteers and/or employees were usually the ones zooming around in golf carts, and usually, if they had a free seat, they might even stop to offer a ride to someone looking like they could use one. Now, it seems like more and more of those carts are filled with sponsors' friends, families, kids, etc. driving around, mostly empty, rudely swerving around pedestrians and generally clogging up the grounds. I think the tram system has been good for Airventure, and should be expanded, to help people escape the fatigue of walking. However, I think reigning in the number of golf carts and other vehicles on the grounds would make for a better OSH experience for everyone.

I agree 100 percent. I walk through the planes and get my feet sopping wet going from A to B, but it's better than dodging all that traffic on any paved surface. I'm referring to cars, gators, 4 wheelers......not scooters. I think those are great for those that can't walk the distance.

[BillL]

Good Post David,

For my wife's first show - SnF - I got her a scooter, it was great, we got to walk at normal speed and she got to see all there was to see, even off in the distance. I even used it some!

I am a nickel behind you but after 3 days, it is a struggle to traverse at OSH and get back and forth to Scholler. I rode my bike in 2 yrs ago and it was wonderful to hit the dispersed key sites in a day and not be dragging. Three hours to roll the entire RV flight line, was priceless. Silence, low mass and maneuverability made the bike a lessor hazard to pedestrians.

In 10 yrs what will the place look like?