GET READY FOR THE 2024 PHOTO CONTEST OPENING OCTOBER 1!

The tradition continues! Thanks to your great response in past years, we’re announcing the upcoming RAF 2024 Photo Contest. It’s time to find your favorites! Again this year, we are including the “RAF Mission” category, for photos we feel best illustrate people enjoying recreational aviation, regardless of region. Each winner will receive a package of high quality…

Read More

OLYMPIC AIRFIELD BATHHOUSE FUNDED WITH RAF GRANT

Located near the San Juan Islands between Port Townsend and Sequim, Washington is privately-owned Olympic Field, WA45 – what RAF Washington Liaison Ray Ballantyne calls, “an exquisite grass runway 2,500 feet long, bordered by an equally long float pond for float equipped aircraft.” To improve the camping area at the airfield, RAF supporter Jay PerryCook suggested the RAF help…

Read More

WORTH THE READ: CLAY SIMMONS GUEST EDITORIAL

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 Clay Simmons, a young pilot and member of the RAF’s Backcountry Etiquette Team. I’m supposed to be the adult now? When I say I’ve been flying my…

Read More

GOODSPEED, CONNECTICUT IMPROVED WITH RAF GRANT

RAF Connecticut Liaison Brian Thomas reports on a successful work party at Goodspeed, 42B over the August 24-25 weekend. Thomas used an RAF grant for materials for campground improvements. “On Saturday morning at 10 we had a great turnout of about twelve to fifteen folks who were enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and had construction expertise,” Thomas said. The group included…

Read More

RAF OUTFITTER SEPTEMBER FEATURED ITEM

Get ready for cooler weather with our men’s and women’s vests! The men’s Kuhl vests are our most popular men’s apparel. The women’s Stio vests are new, just in time for fall! We have two options – down and insulated, coming in different weights and colors. Get yours now so you’re ready as it cools…

Read More

ARE YOU THE OWNER OF A PRIVATE AIRFIELD?

We have good news for you. The RAF has a free Guide for the Private Airfield Owner that is available on our website! Have you considered allowing public access? The RAF is your “go-to” for help. Our Guide for the Private Airfield Owner answers all your questions, like: Should my airfield be open to the public? Should it be added to the…

Read More

FEATURED AIRSTRIP: TRIPLE TREE AERODROME, SOUTH CAROLINA

Each month we highlight an airstrip with hopes that you’ll get out and enjoy these special places. Because of its legendary Southern hospitality and its own “golden rule” promising fun and fellowship, we are again featuring Triple Tree Aerodrome, SC00 in South Carolina’s Piedmont.  Triple Tree’s founders preserve its legendary history, while celebrating the next…

Read More

LET’S BE CAREFUL OUT THERE

The number of backcountry accidents (13 in Idaho so far), a fatality, and near disaster at Smiley Creek has put all the pilot organizations on high alert this summer. The RAF has been a charter member of the AOPA – Air Safety Institute led Backcountry Safety Coalition since it began, and we are all feeling…

Read More

HERRENS BESS HOLLOW UPGRADES WITH RAF GRANT

Herrens Bess Hollow airport, LL77 at Kamaroo Farms is as interesting a place as its name. Located near Kampsville, IL, the airfield has hiking trails, fishing ponds, and a “gold mine” for kids to explore. Exotic farm animals such as camels, kangaroos ostriches, and emus make this a family friendly destination. You can camp under an old walnut tree and…

Read More

RAF GRANT FUNDS MATERIALS FOR BOWMAN FIELD RESTROOM

Maine Ambassador Larry Greiner was awarded an RAF grant for a portion of the materials needed to build new restroom facilities at Bowman Field, B10 in Livermore Falls, Maine. A group of local volunteers, headed up by Bowman Field Flying Club President Nathan Hurd, will provide all the labor. The airport is privately owned by…

Read More