OSHKOSH, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The largest aviation convention in the world is back in Wisconsin this week. The 72nd annual Experimental Aircraft Assocation (EAA) AirVenture runs July 21-27. Whether you want to camp out under the wing of your own plane, or learn about military fighter jets, there is something for everyone at the annual air show. 

Once again, Wittman Regional Airport's air traffic control tower is the busiest in the world during the yearly tradition, often referred to as "aviation's family reunion."

"This is my 25th year at Oshkosh, and I'm 25 years old. My dad and my family has gone here every year," said Tommy Hammons, a third-generation pilot from Minnesota. "I've recently joined the Commemorative Air Force, and now I'm with the B-25s, so I get to be part of the air show."

Tommy Hammons calls flying a spiritual experience.

"You get this sense of freedom, and this sense of, like, closer to God, sort of thing," Hammons explained.

While Hammons and his family are EAA regulars, it is his friend, Chase's, first time among the more than 10,000 aircraft.

"It's kind of overwhelming for someone who has never been here," Chase Indehar said.

He drove eleven hours from Salina, Kansas, for the experience.

"I'm really looking forward to the Goodyear blimps. I haven't seen any in person yet," he said.

That is sure to be a highlight for many visitors.

GoodYear is celebrating 100 years of airship flying by bringing two blimps at EAA: one with a vintage wrap, and one with an led sign.

"There's just something in it that strikes nostalgia and wonder, and just pure joy," said Julianne Roberts, with Goodyear.

The company donated its last remaining blimp gondola to the EAA Museum Monday morning, to be made into a children's exhibit.

"We just want to use this moment to donate something to a future generation of aviation enthusiasts," Roberts said. what a better place to do it than this air show."

In 2024, AirVenture saw a record number of visitors as nearly 700,000 people came through over the seven-day event. 

This year, they're expecting to break that record. Attendees will meet exhibitors doing everything from rescuing animals to creating software for planes. 

CBS 58's Amanda Becker visited Boeing Plaza Monday morning to see what's new this year: