New Mexico Pilots Association and RAF volunteers had worked with the US Forest Service to rehabilitate and reopen the long-abandoned strip. “This vault toilet is a significant part of a larger project made possible by a Challenge Cost Share agreement between the RAF and the Gila National Forest that benefits both recreational pilots and trailhead users,” RAF New Mexico Liaison Ron Keller said. He drove another nine-hour round trip to be on site for the structure’s delivery and installation. In spite of some rain that created challenges for the semi-truck, the entire project went well. “They were very precise when preparing the site, using laser leveling equipment,” Keller observed. “I find it strangely rewarding to feel a sense of accomplishment over a vault toilet. It’s not an airstrip, but it will make the airstrip more inviting to visitors,” he added.
NEW VAULT TOILET INSTALLED AT SACATON, NEW MEXICO
There are plenty of reasons to enjoy tent camping at Sacaton Airstrip near Buckhorn, New Mexico. The runway lies along the Gila Wilderness with access to trails, including the Rain Creek trail. Anglers will enjoy plying Wilderness waters for Gila trout. And a new vault toilet has been installed for visitors.
Prior to landing at Sacaton, permission is required by calling USFS Gila Dispatch center at 800-538-1644. At its 6,200-ft elevation, pilots should be mindful of density altitude. You will find a Safety Briefing at the New Mexico Pilots Association website.
Submitted on October 30, 2023
By Carmine Mowbray
Posted in News
Recent Posts
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.
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 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
