Celebrating 80 Years of the General Aviation Boom: Vintage Aircraft Association’s Year-Long Tribute
The Vintage Aircraft Association (VAA) has announced a year-long celebration marking the 80th anniversary of the transformative post-war general aviation boom of 1946. This pivotal period brought tens of thousands of aircraft into American skies and launched what aviation enthusiasts fondly refer to as the “Class of ’46.”
In 1946, more than 30,000 general aviation airplanes were manufactured. This era saw the introduction of many iconic aircraft types, including:
- Cessna 120/140
- Stinson 108
- North American Navion
- Piper Super Cruiser
Other models like the Piper J-3 Cub, Aeronca Champ and Chief, and Swift also saw record production years. Remarkably, more than 8,400 of these aircraft remain on the FAA registry today, 80 years later.
“This celebration is about more than just the airplanes — it’s about the people, innovation, and spirit that soared in 1946,” said John Hofmann, president of the Vintage Aircraft Association. “The Class of ’46 represents a pivotal time when general aviation came alive for everyday Americans.”
The VAA will highlight these historic aircraft throughout 2026, with special showcases planned for EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026, featuring participation from dedicated type clubs and owners.
Source: General Aviation News