Recreational Aviation Foundation

The Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF) is a non-profit based in the United States. It is recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. The RAF says it is not a membership organization and relies on donations. Supporters can join through a button on the site.

The RAF preserves existing airstrips and creates new public use recreational airstrips across the United States. The site says it was founded by pilots who saw the closure of recreational airstrips as a national concern.

The site says donations pay for several things. These include finding private and public land for new airstrips, helping to fund new airstrips on public land and developing education for pilots. They also fund efforts to gain national recognition for backcountry flying and send information to members of Congress and their staff.

The site lists airstrip projects across the country. Examples include Monache in California, Taylor Flat in Utah, Walker Ridge in California, Keg Knoll in Utah, Ryan Barn in Montana and Trigger Gap in Arkansas. The site says the RAF plans to open or reopen 15 or more airstrips in the United States starting in 2026.

The site includes advocacy and safety resources. It has a survey of recreational use statutes for all 50 states, a code of conduct, an airfield safety briefing guide and a guide for private airfield owners. It names state liaisons who help state pilot groups protect airstrips.

The site says RAF supporters can get $1,000 off the purchase of Hartzell Propeller models through 2026. The models named are Voyager, Pathfinder, Explorer and Trailblazer.

The site lists volunteer roles, a newsletter, podcasts, guest editorials and a news archive. Its social accounts include Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. The contact page lists a contact form, and the site does not list a street address.