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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WORTH THE READ: CINDY CROSS GUEST EDITORIAL

October 22, 2026

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 guest editorial is by Cindy Cross, RAF VP of Appreciation.

RAF FIRE HUB INSTALLED AT BEECHCRAFT HERITAGE MUSEUM

October 21, 2026

The Beechcraft Heritage Museum at Tullahoma Regional Airport is the site of a new RAF Fire Hub, provided by an RAF grant submitted by Tennessee Ambassador Steve Lewis. The Parish family, who own the Beechcraft Museum, along with other RAF volunteers, contributed to the preparation and installation of the fire hub. They completed the project in time for folks to enjoy it during the annual Beech Party event over the October 10-11 weekend. The 20-foot diameter permanent concrete base was provided by a private donor. The fire ring and three 10-foot-long propeller blades were designed and fabricated by RAF Volunteer Pete Smith of Lewistown, Montana, with design assistance from Pete's son Matt Smith of Bozeman, Montana. The structure lies east of the 2,775-ft turf Parish Aerodrome runway adjacent to the Beechcraft Heritage Museum. “This permanent installation will showcase the RAF mission as the Museum draws visitors from around the country,” Lewis said. For more information on the airport, see the Airfield Guide . Submitted October 21, 2026

MICHIGAN VOLUNTEERS WORK AT HANLEY

October 21, 2026

Michigan RAF volunteers had a very successful work party at Hanley Field (5Y7) in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula the October 10-11 weekend. Led by Michigan Ambassador Ryan Minnick, the crew, including Michigan Liaison Tanmoy Ganguly, cut and stacked firewood, repaired the sink and water heater, and relocated the airport sign along the road for better visibility. “We had a great weekend and got a good amount of work done. It was great connecting with supporters from the area,” Minnick said. “The assistant airport manager was there and was very happy with the results that came out of the work party.” Fourteen remained to camp Saturday night. Find more about Hanley Field in the Airfield Guide . Submitted October 21, 2026