Bringing People Together Through Aviation
Hands-on aviation, community, and youth engagement in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.
Who we are
We’re a volunteer run aviation group and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that brings people together to learn, build, and fly. From youth programs to monthly gatherings, we make aviation accessible to anyone with curiosity.
Explore what we offer
Monthly Gatherings
We gather monthly to share a meal, hear from guest speakers, and connect over aviation. All are welcome, experience optional.
Youth Programs
Connecting young people to aviation through hands-on learning and mentorship, creating meaningful experiences that build skills, confidence, and curiosity.
Community Aviation Events
Connecting the community to aviation through events and experiences that open doors to flight, learning, and discovery for all ages.
UPCOMING EVENTS
UPCOMING EVENTS
November Youth Aviation Gathering
November 9, 2026
6:00 PM ~ 8:00 PM
We're kicking off our Youth Aviation Gatherings with a casual night to get to know each other, and we'll have pizza!
Grab a slice, meet other youth interested in aviation, talk about what interests you, share your aviation goals, and tell us what you'd like to experience through Chapter 509.
Our Youth Programs Director, who is also an airline captain, will help lead the conversation, answer questions, share his experience, and help youth learn from one another.
Most importantly, we want to hear from you. Your interests and ideas will help shape future Youth Aviation Gatherings and other Chapter 509 youth opportunities.
Youth Gatherings will happen the 2nd Monday of every month.
Monthly Gathering
November 12, 2026
6:00 PM ~ Chili-Cook-Off, Eat, Chat & Connect
7:00 ~ Annual Meeting
7:15 ~ FAASTeam Safety Seminar
Member Project Visit
November 14, 2026
9:00 - 11:00 AM
Join us for our Annual Chili Cook-Off! Bring a pot of your favorite chili to enter the competition, or simply come hungry, sample the entries, and vote for your favorite.
We’ll also hold our brief Annual Meeting, with a quick look back at the year and what’s ahead for Chapter 509.
Jurg Grossenbacher, with the FAASTeam will also be presenting.
Go inside a real aircraft build! Chapter 509 member David Orsch is opening his shop and sharing his experience building a Van’s RV-12 as an Experimental Light Sport Aircraft (E-LSA).
David will walk us through his RV-12 project and what it really takes to build an airplane from a kit. We’ll look at how the aircraft comes together, the tools and workspace needed, learning to read and follow Van’s plans, and the skills builders develop along the way.
He’ll also share some of the realities of aircraft building, including E-LSA versus E-AB, quality control, dealing with mistakes, the true investment of time and money, and what happens when the project finally reaches inspection and first flight.
Whether you've thought about building an airplane yourself, are already working on a project, or are simply curious about what goes into an experimental aircraft build, come see the process up close, ask questions, and learn from a fellow Chapter 509 member.
Planning to attend?
David's hangar is approximately one hour south from our Chapter 509 clubhouse. Carpooling is encouraged, and we'll help connect members who would like to ride together.
Get Involved
If you’ve ever been curious about aviation, you’re in the right place. Our chapter welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds who want to learn, connect, and be part of something hands-on and meaningful.
Join EAA Chapter 509
Connect with fellow aviation enthusiasts, attend chapter gatherings, and help inspire the next generation of pilots and builders.
Questions? Email us at connect@eaachapter509.com
Where to Find Us
EAA Chapter 509 Clubhouse is located at the Chippewa Valley Regional Airport.
3800 Starr Ave
Eau Claire, WI 54703
After turning right from Starr Avenue into the airport property, take the first left. Continue down that road and you will find our clubhouse on the left hand side just before the fence.
