Next stop: Oshkosh, USA

It’s a historic moment for The Flying Bulls: in 2026, the team will cross the Atlantic for the very first time – making its US debut at the legendary EAA AirVenture, the largest aviation gathering in the world. Among aviation enthusiasts, the event is simply known as “Oshkosh” – named after the Wisconsin city whose airfield transforms into a vibrant festival of flight for an entire week. Up to 10,000 aircraft and around one million visitors flock to this place each year, a location regarded for decades as sacred ground in the world of aviation. With their transatlantic journey, The Flying Bulls are now opening a new chapter in their history.

The idea of flying across the Atlantic has been with the team for a long time. It became concrete about a year and a half ago, and at Christmas 2024, the decisive sentence was spoken: “We will go to the States!” From that moment on, it was clear – 2026 would turn this long-held dream into reality. An appearance at one of the world’s biggest airshows also sends a clear message: The Flying Bulls have long become an international name in aviation.
 

Two true character aircraft were chosen for this adventure, both of which are ready for takeoff in every respect: the Douglas DC-6B and the iconic Lockheed P-38 Lightning. Both will cross the Atlantic under their own power, flying in stages via England, Iceland and Newfoundland in Canada to New York. From there, the DC-6 will continue on a round trip along the East Coast, while both aircraft prepare for their muchanticipated appearance in Oshkosh. A particularly emotional highlight will be the P-38’s return to the United States. For decades, the aircraft thrilled fans as White Lightning at the Reno Air Races before making its way to Europe. “We’re bringing her back home,” says Airshow Coordinator Simon Pircher, “and we’re giving fans a complete P-38 display – something you almost never see in America.”
 

Oshkosh: a stage like no other
 

Oshkosh is not a typical airshow weekend. It is a seven-day aviation phenomenon. Many visitors don’t just attend – they arrive in their own airplanes, park on the sprawling grounds and set up camp beside their aircraft, festival-style. No day is like the next; the program changes constantly, with themed days and evening shows that run late into the night. For The Flying Bulls, this means selected flying days – but a full week of presence from July 20 to 26, 2026, both in the air and on the ground. “No day is copy-paste from the one before,” Simon explains. “That’s what makes Oshkosh so special.”Within the team, the project has already created extraordinary momentum. “We’re certainly not short on volunteers,” Simon adds with a grin. Curiosity is high – as is the pride of being part of something the team has never done before. At the same time, work on the European 2026 airshow season continues in parallel. “We’re operating on two tracks at the moment. But so far, we’ve found a solution for every challenge.” Logistics, permits, routes, training – the puzzle keeps growing, and with every new piece, anticipation rises.
 

“Project Oshkosh” to follow along
 

Another key element: the newly relaunched Flying Bulls YouTube channel, offering fans an unprecedented look behind the hangar doors. Exclusive behind-the-scenes videos are already in production, documenting maintenance work, preparations and the ongoing progress of the project. Step by step, fans can experience how this ambitious undertaking takes shape – from the first wrench turned to the big moments in the United States.

A picture for eternity

When the trip is over, what will remain? For Simon Pircher, two images stand above all others: “The DC-6 in front of the New York skyline – that alone would make the entire project worthwhile. And a packed crowd in Oshkosh reacting to our display – seeing us live for the very first time.” 2026 will be more than just another season. It will be a year of premieres, emotions and unforgettable moments. For The Flying Bulls, it is the beginning of a new chapter. And judging by Simon Pircher’s tone, it certainly won’t be the last of its kind …