GATEWAY TO TETON RECREATION GETS AMENITIES

RAF Idaho Liaison Tim Riley reports that the improvements to the airport camping facility at Driggs Airport, (KDIJ) are ready for use. The project was a collaborative effort between the RAF, the Idaho Aviation Association, (IAA), the City of Driggs, and its Airport Board. Thanks to financial support from each, a 12′ x 16′ cedar pilot shelter, potable water, porta-potty, power and a charging station were installed at a nice grass tie-down area with views of the nearby Teton Range. More upgrades are planned such as a fire ring and gas barbecue, and more permanent toilet facilities.
 
Driggs also has a grass runway parallel to the paved runway. “It is a great stop on the way to or from the Idaho backcountry,” Tim said. He points out that the Warbirds Cafe is just a short walk from the campground. An IAA bike shed and loaner bikes are available to ride into town. The airport has rental cars to access the amenities the area has to offer. “It’s a great destination for the pilot community, with access to hiking, biking, fishing, floating, golf and a small town with numerous shops and restaurants,” Tim said, adding, “The project is well aligned with the RAF mission of using aircraft to access recreational resources.” 

The RAF thanks Tim for his part in organizing the project, and the cooperation and financial participation of a public entity, and Idaho’s pilot organization. 

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By Stef Goza • September 9, 2026
You know the feeling. You set the airplane down somewhere spectacular, shut off the engine, and enjoy the pristine landscape in front of you. This is why you fly. Keeping airstrips pristine is everyone's responsibility. But one item that doesn’t always make it into the airplane is a good trash bag. Not for the trash you planned to make. For the trash you didn’t. Cans left in a fire ring, fishing line along the river, or food wrappers working their way through the brush. None of it came in your airplane, but you have the ability to get it out. That’s reason enough to tuck a couple of heavy-duty contractor bags in with your tie-down gear. They earn their space in other ways, too. A contractor bag can keep wet or muddy gear out of the baggage compartment, cover equipment in a downpour, collect rainwater, or become an emergency poncho or windbreak. It weighs almost nothing and takes up very little room. Throw a few in the airplane and leave them there. You may not need one for your own trash, but there is a good chance you’ll find another use for it—or find something worth carrying out. Submitted September 9, 2026 By Stef Goza, Etiquette Chair, Safety, Education, and Etiquette Committee

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RAF OUTFITTER SEPTEMBER FEATURED COLLECTION

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FEATURING: SMARTWOOL SOCKS Whether you’re flying into the backcountry, hitting the trail, or simply going about your day, a comfortable pair of socks can make all the difference. Smartwool Socks are designed for outdoor adventures and everyday wear, offering the comfort, support, and durability you need wherever the day takes you. Made by Smartwool and finished with the RAF logo, they’re a practical way to bring a little backcountry spirit along for the journey. Get your feet backcountry-ready and show your support for the RAF from the ground up!

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The tradition continues — RAF 2026 Photo Contest! We’re excited to announce the upcoming RAF 2026 Photo Contest! It’s time to look through your photos and find your favorites. Once again, we’ll include the “RAF Mission” category, recognizing photos that best capture people enjoying recreational aviation, no matter the region. Each winning photographer will receive a package of high-quality greeting cards featuring their photo on the front and photo credit on the back — just in time for the holidays! New this year: We’re especially excited to see your photos from our Expanding The Map airstrips! Submit a photo taken at one of these airstrips, and we’ll send you a small gift from the RAF Outfitter as a thank-you for sharing it with us. Stay tuned for our next announcement, which will include everything you need to know to enter this year’s contest. Eligibility: The contest is open to all RAF supporters, amateur and professional photographers alike, including those aged 18 and under. Our judges are the RAF’s volunteer VPs of Appreciation, who also handwrite the RAF’s thank-you cards each week. They especially enjoy photos featuring airplanes, beautiful scenery, and people experiencing the fun and adventure of recreational aviation. The contest opens October 1, and winners will be announced November 15. Start looking through those camera rolls — we can’t wait to see where recreational aviation has taken you! Submitted September 3, 2026