Archive for July 2021

“Of the many jewels of aviation, Katama Airfield stands out as unique in the United States,” says the Katama Airfield Trust website. And now the sign “The RAF Proudly Supports This Airstrip” can go up at the field, thanks to RAF Director Bill Brine and New Hampshire Liaison John Meade. By an overwhelming voice vote,…

RAF orange was very visible on campus all week beginning Monday, July 26 during AirVenture 2021. Key RAF volunteers and supporters spread throughout the event grounds and underwing camping area to share the mission. RAF Utah Liaison Wendy Lessig said, “It was a humongous attendance at OSH this year. I wore my RAF ponytail hat the whole time, and…

McKenzie Bridge Airport, 00S in the Central Oregon Cascades is popular with recreational aviators. It provides access to the McKenzie River, mountain bike trails, and remote camping. “Following the inspirational example set by the long term commitment of Oregon Pilot Association and RAF members Paul and Rob in Ehrhardt, volunteers have been instrumental in maintaining and…

Last fall, the RAF granted $14,000 toward the preservation of Minnesota’s Isle Airport, (MY72). Minnesota Liaison Kirk Hiner and former RAF Director Peter Burwell had learned the airport was facing closure due to encroaching trees. They met with Isle Airport management and agreed on a cost sharing project to solve the problem. The work was…

“Twenty-four aircraft arrived . . . coming in from Michigan, Wisconsin, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, and as far away as New York and Utah,” RAF Michigan Liaison Brad Frederick reported of the July 9-11 weekend work party at North Fox Island.  Michigan volunteers had begun mowing the runway on Thursday, completing the task Friday afternoon when brush cutting began. Campers…

Each month we highlight an airstrip where the RAF has had involvement. We hope that you will get out and enjoy these airstrips. This month’s Featured Airstrip is Goodspeed Airport, (42B), one of the country’s most distinctive airports. It lies beside the historic Connecticut River in East Haddam, CT. It has a 2,120-ft paved runway, and its 4,500-ft seaplane base is…