The RAF's Biggest Year Ever


This year, the RAF is Expanding The Map - and it's shaping up to be one of the most exciting years in our history. Beginning in 2026, the RAF will announce the opening and reopening of 15+ airstrips across the U.S.


This nationwide initiative is focused on opening, improving, and restoring access to airstrips across the United States, helping connect aviators to more of the places they love to explore. With many airstrips set to open within the next year, we’re excited to expand opportunities for recreational aviation like never before.


These projects are meaningful, and every airstrip opened or reopened is made possible through the generosity of donors and the dedication of RAF volunteers across the country.








Keg Knoll Airstrip was officially reopened in August, 2026. This unique backcountry airstrip in the Labyrinth Canyon Wilderness provides easy access to some of the state's most remarkable hidden treasures. This effort was led by RAF Utah Liaison Wendy Lessig.

Learn more here




The Fly Rocky Top airstrip network, developed by the Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF), is open to backcountry aviation enthusiasts as of July 2026. Located in East Tennessee, Fly Rocky Top is a "basecamp and outpost" concept for regional aviation exploration, adding the Southeast to a growing collection of well-recognized recreational airstrip networks across the country, including Fly Oz in Arkansas and others in the West and Southwest.

Learn more here



This classic Sierra Nevada backcountry airstrip was officially reopened in July 2026. This effort was led by RAF Liaisons Rick Lack and Katerina Barilov, along with many other California RAF Ambassadors and volunteers.


Learn more here



Nestled deep in a remote corner of Utah, this airstrip was officially reopened in June 2026. This effort was led by RAF Utah Liaison Wendy Lessig, along with the Utah Backcountry Pilots Association (UBCP). Wendy, the UBCP, and RAF volunteers put in countless hours to return this airstrip to its former glory.


Learn more here



This scenic airstrip, located within the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument, was officially reopened in June 2026. This effort was led by California Liaison Doug Lumgair. Doug, along with other local RAF volunteers, worked tirelessly to clear brush and improve this remote airstrip so that it could be returned to a usable condition.


Learn more here





Stay tuned to see what's opening next. You won't want to miss it!

Get Involved. Help Us Expand The Map.

Become a part of this initiative to open, improve, and restore backcountry airstrips across the nation. Your support is crucial to make these projects a reality. We truly appreciate our donors' generosity.

Your donation can provide many improvements to these airstrips. Here's the impact your donation can make:

  • Windsock: $100
  • Fire Ring: $300
  • Tent Platforms: $500
  • Equipment Rental: $1,000
  • Information Kiosk: $3,000
  • Outhouse: $5,000
  • Pilot Shelter: $12,000

Meet The Volunteers Making This Happen

WALKER RIDGE, CA

"I am deeply thankful and impressed by every volunteer who brought their equipment, expertise, enthusiasm, and incredible work ethic.”

-Doug Lumgair, RAF CA Liaison

TAYLOR FLAT, UT

“The RAF and UBCP teamed up to revitalize the airstrip, which had been dormant for thirty years. We are grateful for the twenty-five volunteers who hand-picked rocks from the airstrip, which were reused to mark the runway corners and threshold.”

- Wendy Lessig, RAF Utah Liaison

MONACHE MEADOWS, CA

"We genuinely appreciate every volunteer's help with this project. It's hard to describe the emotions associated with this effort."

- Katerina Barilov, RAF CA Liaison