Celebrating 80 Years of the General Aviation Boom: A Tribute by the Vintage Aircraft Association
The Vintage Aircraft Association (VAA) has embarked on a year-long celebration to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the post-war general aviation boom of 1946. This transformative period, often referred to by aviation historians as the ‘Class of ’46‘, saw an unprecedented influx of aircraft into the skies. The milestone marks one of the most significant periods in aviation history, with over 30,000 general aviation airplanes manufactured in a single year.
The 1946 boom introduced a variety of iconic aircraft types that remain popular today. These include:
- Cessna 120/140
- Stinson 108
- North American Navion
- Piper Super Cruiser
- Piper J-3 Cub
- Aeronca Champ and Chief
- Swift aircraft
Remarkably, more than 8,400 of these historic aircraft are still listed on the FAA registry today, a testament to their enduring quality and appeal to aviation enthusiasts.
The celebration will reach its zenith at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026, where many of these classic aircraft will be showcased, with participation from dedicated type clubs. “This celebration is about more than just the airplanes — it’s about the people, innovation, and spirit that soared in 1946,” said John Hofmann, VAA president. “The Class of ’46 represents a pivotal time when general aviation came alive for everyday Americans.”
Source: General Aviation News