Join us March 21st, 2026 at 1PM EST at Downtown Island Airport (DKX). Your ticket includes your meal and a special presentation by Vic Syracuse of Base Leg Aviation.
Vic Syracuse is a cornerstone of the homebuilt aviation community with over 48 years of experience. His journey began in 1977 in the U.S. Air Force, where he served as an Avionics Maintenance Technician on a diverse fleet ranging from U-2s and C-130s to heavy-lift helicopters. Today, he is a nationally recognized expert in amateur-built aircraft, known for his deep technical knowledge and commitment to aviation safety and education.
An accomplished builder and pilot, Vic has personally constructed 11 award-winning aircraft, including several Van’s RV models, Kitfoxes, and his most recent project, a Hummingbird helicopter. His flight experience is equally extensive, totaling over 11,000 flight hours in more than 72 different types of aircraft. This includes 5,500 hours in amateur-built planes and over 5,000 hours of tailwheel experience. Demonstrating his expertise in flight testing, Vic has also successfully conducted more than 36 first flights of newly constructed aircraft.
Vic holds a Commercial Pilot’s License with multiple ratings, including ASMEL, ASES, and Rotary Wing, and is a certified Flight Instructor (CFII). Professionally, he is a licensed A&P/IA and has served as a Designated Airworthiness Representative (DAR) for the Atlanta MIDO office for 15 years. His leadership within the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) has been profound, having served as a Technical Counselor, Flight Advisor, and Chair of the Homebuilt Council. His lifelong contributions were honored with the Tony Bingelis Award in 2022 and his induction into the EAA Hall of Fame in 2025.
Beyond the hangar, Vic is a prolific author dedicated to sharing his expertise with the next generation of aviators. He writes the monthly “Checkpoints” column for EAA Sport Aviation and previously served as a Contributing Editor for Kitplanes magazine for a decade. He has published four influential books, including specialized guides on pre-buy inspections and maintenance handbooks for Van’s RV aircraft. Vic is also a dedicated mentor, having introduced over 350 children to flight through the Young Eagles program.
Get your banquet tickets today for only $35.00. Your ticket includes your meal and a special presentation by Vic Syracuse. You do not need to be a member of EAA or Chapter 17 to attend, but you must register. Sales end March 14th—don’t wait to buy yours!
