OSHKOSH – One of the most distinctive aircrafts in the world was set to return to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh this month — but after a three-year hiatus, NASA’s Super Guppy will not return to AirVenture.
The Super Guppy and Oshkosh: A timely partnership cut short
The Super Guppy made its first appearance at Oshkosh in 2000 and last appeared at the fly-in in 2023. The aircraft recently drew attention at the April SUN ’n FUN Aerospace Expo, where it was displayed in the event’s central plaza throughout the week.
However, EAA announced July 7 that NASA’s Super Guppy has been forced to cancel its appearance at AirVenture 2026 after sustaining damage during recent severe weather.
“We have an unfortunate update to share with you,” said EAA in post on X, formerly Twitter. “NASA says the Super Guppy was damaged in recent severe weather and will not be able to attend #OSH26. A crew is working diligently to repair the damage, and we hope to see it back in Oshkosh soon.”
What even is a Super Guppy?
NASA reports some aircraft can carry more weight than the Super Guppy, but few come close to matching its internal dimensions. The aircraft’s hinged nose, arguably its most iconic feature, opens at a 110-degree angle and allows full frontal cargo loading.
When Airbus retired its fleet in 1997, NASA acquired Super Guppy Turbine No. 4 through an agreement with the European Space Agency. The aircraft remains in active service today, supporting NASA missions and transporting oversized aerospace hardware across the country.
In recent years, it has also assisted the Department of Defense and aerospace contractors by moving aircraft and major components, including Air Force T-38 Talons and Navy V-22 Ospreys.
More than six decades after the first Guppy took flight, the aircraft continues to fill a unique niche as one of the few practical solutions for transporting exceptionally large cargo by air
What to expect instead
The Guppy was scheduled to be at the air show the entire week from July 20 to 26. Other aircraft on the plaza now includes the Boeing B-29 Superfortress Doc, which visitors can book a ride on at the Appleton International Airport (ATW) from July 20 to 23.
For more information and updated daily schedules, visit eaa.org/airventure.
Emma Johnson is the Appleton Post-Crescent’s summer intern. Reach her at ejohnson@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Oshkosh Northwestern: NASA Super Guppy will miss EAA AirVenture Oshkosh
Reporting by Emma Johnson, Oshkosh Northwestern / Oshkosh Northwestern
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Emma Johnson, Oshkosh Northwestern | USA TODAY Network
