Archive for June 2022

Each month we highlight an airstrip with hopes that you will get out and enjoy these special places. The July Featured Airstrip is Russian Flat, Montana. Russian Flat was just a twinkle in the eyes of recreational flying enthusiasts in 2003, and since 2010 when this brand new airstrip opened, has been the place for…

The RAF and The Nature Conservancy (TNC) have signed an agreement allowing the RAF to manage recreational aviation use of the Red Pine airfield, located within TNC’s St John River Forest in northern Maine. RAF volunteers have worked to return the airstrip to a safe condition for backcountry use. Red Pine, a remote 2,470-ft paved…

What motivates the RAF volunteer to spend their weekend or vacation days pounding nails, painting tires, installing roofing, assembling balky picnic tables or bear boxes, or spending a day in the rain chopping undergrowth? Montana volunteer Duane Francis summed up a common sentiment shared by RAF volunteers. “Do something that makes a difference. Find a…

RAF Liaison and Alaska native Al Clayton had been eying an uncharted airstrip at the toe of the Nizina Glacier locally known as Amphitheatre Creek strip. He envisioned that pilots with appropriate aircraft – bush types, or even C182s with 8.50 main tires, and Beavers, for example – could enjoy the views from this natural amphitheatre, and…

We invite you to enjoy the new RAF Way video. We’re frequently asked, “Why the RAF?” and our many volunteers needed something to really convey the spirit of the RAF at presentations, like EAA, type clubs, and other aviation gatherings.  We began with the simple question, “Why do people feel so good supporting and volunteering for the…

RAF supporters spent a day July 9 on repairs and maintenance at both Rager Guard Station airfield in Oregon’s Ochoco National Forest, and Big Rock Flat airfield in the Umatilla National Forest. “These two Forest Service aviation assets provide pilots with opportunities to access remote backcountry areas in Central Oregon,” RAF Oregon Liaison Richard Mayes said. Visitors…

Come spend time with the RAF at Oshkosh AirVenture during the week of July 25-31! You’re invited to join us on Tuesday, July 26 at 12:45 pm for a special volunteer dedication of engraved tiles beneath the famous Brown Arch. A generous donor has provided an array of tiles for the RAF to commemorate past…

Beginning Thursday, June 23, aircraft began arriving under sunny skies for the annual RAF Ryan Fly-in. By mid-day Friday, winds were calm, and 47 aircraft were tied down along the emerald turf, colorful tents and camp chairs beneath the wings. Folks relaxed in the bright orange Adirondack chairs in the shade of the barn roof…