EAA Chapter 22 members gathered together at the chapter meeting space

About EAA Chapter 22

EAA Chapter 22 — Rockford, Illinois

Cottonwood Airport (1C8)

We’re a community of passionate aviation enthusiasts who promote and support recreational flying. Our mission is to grow participation in aviation by promoting the Spirit of Aviation — through education, events, youth programs, and a welcoming chapter culture.

Our Purpose

A community of passionate aviation enthusiasts that promotes and supports recreational flying.

Our Vision

A vibrant and growing aviation community.

Our Mission

To grow participation in aviation by promoting the “Spirit of Aviation.”

What We Do

At EAA Chapter 22, you’ll find a mix of hands-on aviation activity and good hangar conversation built around learning, safety, and community.

Programs and activities include:

  • Aircraft building and restoration
  • Seminars, workshops, and safety education
  • Guest speakers and pilot-to-pilot learning
  • Young Eagles rallies introducing youth to aviation
  • Fly-ins, fly-outs, and social aviation events

If you’re new: come to an event, say hello, and we’ll take it from there.

Our Aviation Roots

Rockford has deep ties to aviation history. Before Oshkosh became the home of EAA’s flagship convention, Rockford hosted the EAA Fly-In Convention from 1959–1969. That legacy helped shape the culture and growth of EAA nationwide.

Chapter History

History Compiled from chapter records and notes, including work by former newsletter editor Nick Lung. EAA Chapter 22 began in 1956, when a …

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Cottonwood Airport

Cottonwood Airport — 1C8 Cottonwood Airport has been a cornerstone of Rockford-area grassroots aviation since the late 1940s. The original …

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The Rockford Years

The EAA Convention — Rockford Years (1959–1969) Before Oshkosh became the home of the world’s largest aviation celebration, the EAA Fly-In …

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