Published In Midwest Flyer Magazine Online October/November 2021 Issue
OSHKOSH, WIS. – EAA AirVenture Oshkosh hosted a special attraction this year that highlighted humanitarian aircraft that focus on providing medical and relief assistance to those in need around the world. These aircraft and organizations were part of a salute to humanitarian aviation during the 68th edition of the EAA fly-in, July 26-August 1, at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin:
Orbis Flying Eye Hospital: This MD-10 aircraft travels around the world to provide eye care, such as cataract surgery and glaucoma treatment, to local hospitals in countries that have limited or nonexistent access.
Samaritan’s Purse DC-8: The flagship airplane of the organization delivers tons of food, medicine, and supplies to aid victims of war, natural disasters, and other emergencies.
UPS 747-8F: This aircraft played a leading role in the delivery of over 400 million COVID-19 vaccines and tons of personal protective equipment (PPE) used to fight the pandemic in the U.S.
Cessna 208 Caravan: The Remote Area Medical organization’s aircraft has three pop-up medical clinics in it, which includes medical, dental, and vision to assist in disaster situations.
Air Force C-17: This aircraft has Negatively Pressurized CONEX (NPC), which filters contaminated air with clean air to prevent the spread of disease and contamination.