RAF THANKS DAHER KODIAK FOR AVID SUPPORT

When Nicolas Chabbert, CEO of Daher-Kodiak Aircraft, learned that a 350-pound 10-gauge steel bear box needed to be delivered to Montana’s Schafer Meadows, he enthusiastically offered to fly the mission in a Kodiak. His avid support stemmed from Daher Kodiak’s cordial relationship with the RAF, kindled in 2022.


RAF Director and General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) Chairman Pete Bunce included the RAF in GAMA events, where the relationship began with pilot and aircraft-innovator Chabbert. When Daher acquired Quest – Kodiak in 2019, Chabbert was introduced to the backcountry capabilities of the Kodiak. In 2022, having learned that some active backcountry airstrips are located in Wilderness Areas with no access roads, he approached the RAF with an offer to loan one of the Sandpoint, ID-based corporate Kodiaks to help complete RAF missions in Idaho and Montana.

“In 2023, we used the donated Kodiak to move an AmeriCorps trail crew from Missoula into Moose Creek Forest Service airstrip to work on the runways; then later that fall, transported fence material and volunteers in to replace jackleg fence around the ranger station to contain their pack animals; and moved several loads of shingles to the Shearer Airstrip for the guard station there,” RAF President Bill McGlynn explained.


By then, Chabbert had arranged for his company to take a new Kodiak 100 and prominently brand it with RAF colors, both for hardy use in the backcountry, and display at Daher Kodiak’s AirVenture scene.

In October 2024, the RAF is using the Kodiak to airlift material, supplies and people into Moose Creek to replace the two outhouses that burned in the recent forest fire; and complete the fence project.



“Because the Kodiak is such a capable backcountry aircraft – hauling ten people at a time, or 248 cubic feet of cargo, it’s a game-changer for accomplishing significant missions for the RAF,” McGlynn said, adding, “We can’t thank Daher enough for their wonderful support of backcountry aviation by way of this gift to the RAF.”


RAF Chairman John McKenna said, “A relationship with a company like Daher Kodiak is a real plus to the RAF. You are judged by the company you keep, and who could ask for better company?”


Submitted September 30, 2024
By Carmine Mowbray

Posted in News

    Recent Posts

DON'T HAVE TO LOOK FAR

By John McKenna • September 14, 2026
Sometimes one needs to look no further than one's incoming correspondence to find inspiration. Just this past week, folks passionate about the RAF mission reached out to me with suggestions that would bring resources to the RAF. Whether they be one-off items that we might offer, or events like large fundraisers, these folks are offering some thoughts on how we might continue to pay the bills. Additionally, we’re receiving word from folks with new destinations on their mind, and some pretty cool ones at that. Along the way, my inbox – as well as my calendar – is filled with updates on our Expanding the Map effort, with an emphasis on Fly Rocky Top. The Fly Rocky Top initiative in Tennessee is generating strong interest, and for good reason. It feels great. Folks are showing up to pitch in, with significant work projects planned. Trish and I, along with other board members, will be there to lend a hand to this exciting project. We are coming up on our annual year-end letter, which you will be seeing not long from now. In addition to showcasing a few more of our successful projects, we will be seeking your support. Stand by. I’ll wrap this up by letting you know that we could not be more pleased with how you all are doing your part. Thank you. It is so healthy to have an organization that uses passion as a primary energy source. - John McKenna, RAF Chairman Submitted September 14, 2026

GARRISON DAM RECREATIONAL AIRPARK IMPROVEMENTS CONTINUE

September 11, 2026
“We had a busy day at Garrison Dam Recreational Airpark, as we continue to work on the underwing camping area,” RAF North Dakota Liaison Brian Rau reported. Rau was awarded an RAF grant in spring of 2026 to convert an adjacent day-use park into an airport camping area, and had organized volunteers who began the project in May. The airport, 37N, is closed while the runway and taxiway are being upgraded by a contractor for the ND Aeronautics Commission.

PACK A TRASH BAG

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

VOLUNTEERS CLEAR WILLOWS, TREES FROM MARBLE AIRFIELD

September 8, 2026
RAF Colorado Liaison Ken Long, Ambassador Mike Langersmith, and other RAF volunteers participated in an August work event at Marble, Colorado, a mountain airfield about 20 nm up the Crystal River drainage south of Carbondale. Airfield Manager Susan Blue put together the task list and oversaw the event that brought 21 volunteers in ten aircraft and four dogs. 

RAF OUTFITTER SEPTEMBER FEATURED COLLECTION

September 5, 2026
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!