RYAN WORK PARTY A SUCCESS

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 Jeff Smith, a pilot and an RAF Supporter.

Looking for a way to participate with like-minded RAF supporters? Like to roll up your sleeves on an airfield project? The RAF makes it easy for you to learn about and plan for upcoming 2026 RAF events, work parties, and other activities. Events are added all the time, and the calendar will begin filling up as summer approaches, so we encourage you to make a habit of checking it often. Scroll down on the RAF homepage or go directly to the Calendar page here . Due to the number and variety of aviation activities, only those with RAF involvement will be listed on our calendar. We encourage you to check your own state’s pilot and aeronautics resources, and type-club social media for other activities. Submitted February 27, 2026 By Carmine Mowbray

Have you explored the RAF Airfield Guide ? If discovering new places and adventures excites you, the Airfield Guide is the place to begin planning your next destination! You can filter airfields by amenities, runway length and type, and geographic region to get a tailored list of destinations perfect for your next flying adventure. You can also create flying routes to plan a longer trip. If you come across an airfield listed in the Guide that you've been to, submit a comment to share your experience with others. The Airfield Guide is a high-quality tool to help you discover special places around the country. It's fast and easy to sign up for, and is free, without ads. If your head is in the clouds, dreaming about where to fly this summer, the Airfield Guide is the place to find your inspiration. Submitted February 27, 2026

This month, we are featuring a most unique destination, Alton Bay, New Hampshire, B18, located on the southern edge of Lake Winnipesaukee. It’s a busy seaplane base during summer, and when winter chill descends on the countryside, the watercraft get stored, and eager pilots await New Hampshire’s DOT Aeronautical Division’s go-ahead for ice landings when they deem the ice is a safe thickness. Local volunteers get involved and mark the runway with cones, and keep the ice field, taxiway, and parking apron graded, typically through March. The RAF, alongside other local organizations, has played a role in keeping Alton Bay open and maintained over the years—helping fund fuel and equipment parts, and supporting the dedicated volunteers who work hard to keep the runway in excellent condition. Pilots enjoy the experience of landing on pure ice on New Hampshire’s largest lake – skis not required – and locals report a fantastic season this winter, logging more than last year’s record 764 landings. “Pilots eager to practice this New England winter tradition come from as far as New Jersey, Michigan, and the New England states to land, socialize, or walk the short distance to town for shopping, dining, and the surrounding amenities,” said New Hampshire Liaison John Meade. Alton Bay businesses warmly welcome visitors to their annual February Winter Carnival that draws large crowds for sleigh rides, ice skating, beer and chili bar, a chowder cook-off, and food and swag vendors. Find Alton Bay Ice Runway on the Airfield Guide and bookmark the Alton Bay Facebook page to check out photos, reels, reviews, and of course, current dialog. Those who pay a visit to B18 receive a coveted Ice Wing certificate and Ice Chip. Submitted February 27, 2026 Photo Credit: Greg Delp