News

We heard those words often in the early years of the RAF. And they are just as relevant today. With only an idea and without a corporate charter, it was Jerry Cain who stepped up and said, “Let me do some homework. I got it,” and within a short time the RAF was officially an…

The RAF prop cover is made of heavy duty vinyl that will fit great over your propeller blade! You can show off your support of the RAF with your airplane, even when you’re not around. The prop cover sports the horizontal RAF logo with the words that we live by… Fly the Backcountry! Made in…

Your support of the RAF helps leverage on-the-ground projects across the country, and you know that we value your interest, investment and precious time. We hope you are also a member of your state pilots group. Most likely, you’ve registered with your state’s Aeronautic or Aviation division, and you’ve registered your aircraft. And because you…

Each month we highlight an airstrip with hopes that you will get out and enjoy these special places. This month’s Featured Airstrip is Grapevine, Arizona. Years ago, the Arizona Pilots Association recognized the value of Grapevine, an abandoned asphalt airstrip on the Tonto National Forest within the Sonoran Desert near Roosevelt Lake. “Sadly, this incredible airstrip was…

“After FAA approval and no objections from Forest Service Fire and Aviation, the District Ranger approved Sacaton Landing Strip for recreational access this morning,” RAF New Mexico Liaison Ron Keller reported on January 9, and his dream that Sacaton reopen by New Years was fully realized. This airstrip had lain unusable for three decades. “At least a…

A September 2022 announcement by the FAA stirred up social media chatter and piqued AOPA and RAF attention over the possible removal of a sector of private airfields from charts. On chart legends, the open magenta circle “R” was labeled Non-public use having emergency or landmark value. The FAA bulletin stated that “only private airports…

Ever hang out with an alligator? I was at lunch the other day with my older sister. It is somewhat of a joke in our family that she always forgets her purse, or as we say “she has alligator arms.” You know the type. They are the person that allows the check to lay in…

By now you know the RAF is celebrating twenty years of success thanks to the efforts of our volunteers! This year, we encourage you to join the fun and get out to the backcountry – which to us is more than a place. It’s a style of flying we enjoy, whether arriving at your favorite…

The RAF’s all-volunteer board of directors gathered in Bozeman, MT for its annual face-to-face meeting in January to discuss areas of focus for 2023 and reflect on 20 years of success furthering the mission. “A top priority is to celebrate this special year with our volunteers and supporters,” RAF President Bill McGlynn said. Bridger Aerospace…