Warbirds Heard on 14.250 MHz During EAA AirVenture Oshkosh

Members monitoring HF this week have reported notable activity on 14.250 MHz connected with Warbirds operators and aviation enthusiasts participating from EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. While not an officially designated net frequency, 14.250 MHz has become an informal gathering point for stations checking in from the Warbirds flightline and surrounding areas.

Band Activity and Operating Notes

Traffic on 14.250 MHz has consisted primarily of short SSB contacts, quick situational updates, and coordination between operators attending the event. Signal strengths have varied—typically S3 to S7—reflecting portable equipment, temporary antennas, and the RF‑dense environment of a major airshow.

Propagation Conditions

During AirVenture week, 20 meters has provided stable daytime propagation across the central United States. Operators at Oshkosh have enjoyed reliable regional coverage while still being workable from both coasts. Midday MUF levels have supported strong domestic coverage, making 14.250 MHz a practical choice for broader communication without excessive congestion.

Portable Station Setups

Most stations operating from Oshkosh appear to be using:

• Portable HF rigs
• Verticals, dipoles, or lightweight directional antennas
• Battery or generator power sources

Despite the noise floor challenges of a large event, the frequency has remained usable and active.

Why 14.250 MHz?

The frequency offers several advantages for event‑based operations:

• Predictable daytime propagation
• Moderate QRM compared to busier portions of 20 meters
• Accessibility for General‑class operators
• A long tradition of aviation‑related informal activity during major fly‑ins

Monitoring Recommendations for FHARC Members

If you’d like to follow Warbirds‑related HF activity:

• Monitor 14.250 MHz during daylight hours
• Log stations and locations for propagation reference
• Expect short transmissions and rapid operator turnover
• Be prepared for variable signal strength due to portable equipment

Final Note

AirVenture Oshkosh is already one of the most dynamic aviation events in the world. The added HF activity on 14.250 MHz gives amateur operators a unique opportunity to hear real‑time chatter from the Warbirds community while historic aircraft are flying overhead. For FHARC members who enjoy both aviation and HF operations, it’s a frequency worth keeping an ear on throughout the event.