News

Utah Back Country Pilots Association President Roy Evans, II reports that recently volunteers, honorably dubbed the “UBCP Sled Dogs”, completed an exceptional effort restoring the BLM airstrip at Mexican Mountain, and it is now open. The scenic and remote airstrip had suffered significant flood damage, and the BLM environmental review to perform more extensive repairs would…

On November 2, four airport volunteers joined 14 RAF supporters at Wolf Run Fly-In Campground adjacent to the Noble County Airport for a work day close to 9 a.m. Those arriving in seven aircraft had to wait for the morning fog to clear. “It was one of the most spectacular fall days of the season,”…

A lot of pilots are discovering the challenges and joys of accessing the backcountry. To emphasize safety, we’re eager to share some excellent Backcountry Safety Coalition resources with you, produced and curated by AOPA’s Air Safety Institute.  You can select from relevant webinars and instructive videos produced by AOPA’s ASI. More are added all the time, so…

With the 2024 political season in the rear view mirror, now is an important time to move forward. Whether you supported some winners, or were on the wrong side of the voting equation, now’s a good time to reach out to those that you may have disagreed with. With change comes both concern and opportunity.…

In late 2022, Custer State Park Airport’s asphalt surfaces were determined to require extensive maintenance. RAF South Dakota Liaison Karl Jungclaus reported that the financial burden would have been placed upon the Park. The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (SDGFP) determined closing the airport was the best option.  The RAF, South Dakota Pilots Association…

The 2024 RAF Photo Contest has concluded. Thanks to our supporters, we had a great turnout of submissions! Our VP’s of Appreciation reviewed and judged them anonymously, selecting 12 winning photos. VP of Appreciation Cindy Cross said, “Once again we had so many outstanding entries. It is wonderful seeing so many beautiful areas in our…

 The 2025 Hat is here! This lighweight, sport, unstructured hat is unlike our others. It’s adjustable with a velcro back, and features the RAF logo on front with “2025” embroidered on the side.  Order the Featured Item and shop the RAF Outfitter. If you have questions, please email contact@theraf.org or call 406-582-1723.  Your RAF Outfitter purchase is greatly…

In cooperation with the US Forest Service, the RAF organized volunteers beginning in late 2023 to remove and replace 3,000 feet of deteriorating jackleg fence around the historic Moose Creek Ranger Station. Again this October, volunteers from the RAF, Idaho Aviation Association, (IAA) and the Selway Bitterroot Frank Church Foundation cooperated with the Forest Service…

The RAF is pleased to announce that Joe Brown of Cornwall, Vermont has agreed to step into the role of Director. RAF President Bill McGlynn said, “Joe is a great addition to our board. He has decades of experience running businesses but understands and values the nature of the RAF.” Brown spent 33 years in the aviation industry…