Oshkosh AirVenture 2011 offers $60K for electric aircraft

The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) is offering prizes totalling US$60,000 at Oshkosh AirVenture 2011 for innovations in electric flight.

As part of Oshkosh 2011, to be held at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh from July 25-31, the EAA will run the ‘Electric Flight Prize’, which aims to showcase the accomplishments and viability of flight powered exclusively by electricity.

Three flight competitions, along with an electric aircraft innovation evaluation, will determine prize recipients. The three flight competitions will see entrants compete in the following areas:

- Endurance to determine which electric aircraft can be kept aloft for the longest period of time;
- A time to climb competition; and
- Maximum speed of each aircraft.

The innovation evaluation will be conducted by representatives of the four sport aviation companies contributing to the prize (Wicks Aircraft Supply, Dynon Avionics, Aircraft Spruce & Specialty, and AeroLEDs). They will reach a consensus on the top three developments in electric flight based on battery, motor, controller and airframe.

Each activity will be scored and plaques will be awarded to the aircraft placing first, second or third in each category. The first place winners in endurance, time to climb, maximum speed and innovation will each receive US$10,000, while the overall winner, based on the highest cumulative score, will receive US$20,000.

The competitions are open to anyone with an electric powered aircraft who has flown at least 40 hours and has an airworthiness certificate.

For more information, including the official entry rules and initial application forms, click here.