The Recreational Aviation Foundation preserves, improves, and creates airstrips for recreational access.

The Recreational Aviation Foundation preserves, improves, and creates airstrips for recreational access.

Donate Today

The Recreational Aviation Foundation preserves, improves, and creates airstrips for recreational access.

Donate Today

HOW DO I JOIN?

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The RAF is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, however, we are not a membership organization. We rely solely on donations to fulfill the RAF mission. To become an RAF supporter, click the Join Now button to either donate or simply fill out your contact information so you will receive our communications. To become a volunteer, click the Volunteer button to learn about volunteer opportunities.

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Welcome to the RECREATIONAL AVIATION FOUNDATION

The Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF) was founded by a group of Montana pilots who realized that the threat of recreational airstrip closure was of national concern. They also recognized that there was the need for a unified effort by pilots everywhere to protect public recreational opportunities. The RAF is dedicated to preserving existing airstrips and creating new public-use recreational airstrips throughout the United States.

GET TO KNOW US

The RAF Way

Ryan Barn, MT

Trigger Gap, AR

The RAF implements its mission through these Guiding Principles:

We believe that aviation is a valid form of accessing recreational resources on public and private lands.

We believe in collaboration with both public and private entities to arrive at solutions that provide benefit to all parties.

We value the relationships of all stakeholders – both public and private – and commit to fostering relationships based upon integrity and transparency.

We believe that creation of new recreational airstrips will encourage the general aviation community to get out and recreate as well as provide more dispersed recreational opportunities.

We prioritize safety - from pre-flight planning to the experiences on the ground where our planes have taken us - and consider it a lifetime commitment, rather than an isolated event.

Event Calendar

Team RAF

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Support our work with your tax-deductible donation. The RAF is a 501(c)(3) organization.

DID YOU HEAR? RAF supporters will receive a $1,000 discount on the purchase of Hartzell Propeller's Voyager, Pathfinder, Explorer, and Trailblazer propellers through 2023. Read the Press Release!

Latest News

WORTH THE READ: ANDY TURNER GUEST EDITORIAL

September 28, 2023

Our many RAF supporters have such vast and varied experience, and we’re capturing some of their words of wisdom to share with you. This month’s guest editorial is by Andy Turner, a pilot, aquatic ecologist, and longtime friend of the RAF. Growing Up With The RAF: I recently rousted Joshua and Caleb, my two teenage sons,…

RAF FUNDS IMPROVEMENTS AT AIRFIELD IN THE PENNSYLVANIA WILDS

September 26, 2023

RAF Pennsylvania Liaison Andy Turner has received an RAF grant for picnic tables and fire rings at Clarion County Airport, KAXQ. Recognizing the untapped recreational potential of the area, Turner approached Airport Manager Donald Kimball, and received enthusiastic support for a project and improvements. Turner and Kimball initiated an effort to develop a campground just…

RAF HOSTS AOPA REGIONAL MANAGERS FOR ANNUAL ONLINE UPDATE

September 25, 2023

The RAF hosted AOPA’s seven Regional Managers for an hour-long online update September 19. AOPA’s VP of Airports and State Advocacy Mike Ginter introduced each of the seven. These persons bird-dog issues critical to General Aviation like preserving airports facing closure, preventing airspace encroachments and unreasonable ramp and user fees. Other timely initiatives are Avgas…