OSHKOSH, Wis. — It was a record-breaking year for the largest aviation exhibition in the country, EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh.

The week-long event brought in 650,000 people with representation from 92 different countries. CEO Jack Pelton said this is the largest year since EAA AirVenture started in 1953.

While the event started with a powerful storm just a day before opening, Pelton said the rest of the week had nearly perfect weather. 

EAA AirVenture had just over 800 exhibitors, who noticed a 25% increase in business from previous years. 

He said FAA handled more than 25,000 aircraft movements between Wittman Regional Airport, Fond du Lac Skyport and FISK VFR Approach Control. 

Pelton is thankful for those who made the 69th year possible, including the 5,000 volunteers.

“You could tell. You could feel it on the grounds that this was going to be a big year,” said Pelton. “I think one of the things that was very meaningful to us is that it was a good year but it was incredibly well organized. Our transportation, the ticket booth, everything on the ground was really in order and working flawlessly.” 

Pelton said they were able to raise $2 million for their philanthropy, which goes towards an education center. 

Next year will be the 70th year for EAA AirVenture. Pelton said they’re planning for another record-breaking year.