It’s not just aviators who value local airfields. On July 15, Marcy Airfield near Keene, New York suffered extensive grounds vandalism. The malicious episode really touched the town’s nerve, as the turf grounds are used for a number of complementary events, like the Keene Farmers Market, a summer concert series, and the local Youth Commission’s…

The US Forest Service is on a year-long public conversation to improve its recreation program on its forests and grasslands. RAF Oregon Liaison Bill Ables and RAF Public Lands Consultant Ron Normandeau attended the USFS three-day virtual “Recreational Knowledge Workshop” and reinforced the importance of aviation, and the RAF success getting Congressional appropriations to fund…

Eighteen volunteers in 11 aircraft wrapped up a successful work party at Montana’s Schafer Meadows on Saturday, July 15 under the direction of MPA Past President and RAF supporter Pete Smith of Lewistown. RAF Montana Liaison Scott Newpower had listed tasks that needed to be done. Volunteers, including MT Aeronautics Director Tim Conway and his…

Each month we highlight an airstrip with hopes that you will get out and enjoy these special places. This month, we’re featuring Havana Regional, IL. Havana Regional Airport in Illinois, (9I0) is near a small, welcoming town on the Illinois River. Thanks to the creativity and efforts of RAF Illinois Liaison Mike Purpura, Havana’s recreational opportunities will stretch…

Click here to read RAF Supporter Rich Schlink’s article about the lessons he’s learned during his career as a Cal Fire Air Tanker Captain/Grumman S2F-3AT Instructor and how they relate to backcountry flying.

The RAF keeps making news, and current aviation media is helping us share the RAF story and mission. We appreciate these opportunities for increased public awareness. Some recent highlights: AirVenture images worth the look – Flying Magazine published stunning photos from the recent AirVenture, including the Daher Kodiak 100 branded with the orange RAF logo. The display showcased the…

RAF supporter Joe Feiler of Casper, Wyoming loads his tools into his Cessna Cardinal and brings his skills where the RAF is making an impact. His most recent support came in the form of his donation of the materials and his volunteer labor constructing Cabin 4 at Ryan Field. RAF volunteers gathered for a special…

Betting you’ve heard that old saying, thought to go back to Aesop, the Greek. Personally, I thought my wise mother coined this phrase. It occurred to me much later in life that not only was she trying to keep me out of trouble, but she truly set the stage for one of life’s most important…