The Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF) was founded by a group of Montana pilots who realized the threat of recreational airstrip closure was of national concern. They also recognized that there was the need for a unified effort by pilots everywhere to protect public recreational opportunities. The RAF is dedicated to preserving existing airstrips and actually creating new public-use recreational airstrips throughout the United States. Recognized by the IRS as a non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization, the RAF is using tax-deductible donations to:
- Identify private and public land for the development of new airstrips,
- Assist in funding the building of new airstrips on public land,
- Develop educational materials to assist pilots in being knowledgeable advocates,
- Fund efforts to gain national recognition of backcountry recreational aviation and airstrips as a legitimate use of public lands.
- Provide educational information regarding recreational airstrips to members of Congress and their staff.