North American Trainer Association Returns to Dubuque Regional Airport

The Dubuque Regional Airport (DBQ) will host members of the North American Trainer Association (NATA) as they bring historical aircraft to the airport beginning Thursday, July 18, through Sunday, July 21. An estimated 40 World War II era AT-6 Texans will gather for their annual pre-Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) AirVenture formation practice and qualification. Other WWII era military training aircraft will include P-51 Mustangs and Corsairs. They will operate from the general aviation apron.

NATA is celebrating its 38th year in 2024. The association has nearly 1,000 members worldwide. The first “formation clinic” was held in Boscobel, Wis., and has traveled to various Midwest locations since. Dubuque has been home to NATA’s annual clinic for the past 18 years. The gathering serves as a warm-up for the group’s participation in the EAA AirVenture event in nearby Oshkosh, Wis.

Although the formation clinic is private and the airport ramp will be closed to the public, there is an observation area off Aviation Drive near the Captain Robert L. Martin Terminal for the public to view the aircraft. There is no set schedule, but optimal viewing times for spectators are expected to be between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. each day. Observers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, drinking water, and plenty of sunscreen.

Additional scheduling notes will be communicated through the airport’s social media channels.