Backcountry Resources

Backcountry flying requires specialized skills, aircraft, and knowledge.  Most general aviation aircraft are not structured for these operational conditions.

Backcountry flying clubs and organizations are a cornerstone of the backcountry aviation community, providing essential resources for pilots. A primary function of many of these clubs is to maintain and publish information about backcountry airstrips and landing zones. These resources are often the most accurate and up-to-date due to their local knowledge and a network of pilots who regularly visit these remote locations.

Nationwide & Major Organizations

These organizations have a broad reach and maintain extensive databases of backcountry airstrips and landing zones across the country. They are often the first place a pilot will look for information.

  • Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF): The RAF’s “Airfield Guide” is one of the most comprehensive and widely used resources for backcountry pilots. It is a pilot-driven database that includes user-submitted reports, photos, and crucial details about airstrips, including their condition, amenities, and approach considerations.
  • BackcountryPilot.org: Beyond being a forum and magazine, this site has a “Knowledge Base” with an extensive section on flying destinations. While it may not have a simple map-based interface like the Airfield Guide, it offers detailed, user-contributed articles and trip reports about specific landing zones.
  • Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA): AOPA’s Backcountry Resource Center provides a variety of safety materials and guides, including specific information on certain popular backcountry airstrips in the western United States. While not an exhaustive list, their resources are well-researched and focus on safety.

Regional & State-Specific Clubs

Many of the most valuable resources for backcountry flying are state- or region-specific. These clubs have an intimate knowledge of local terrain, weather, and the unique challenges of flying in their area.

  • Utah Back Country Pilots (UBCP): The UBCP maintains a detailed list and interactive map of airstrips in Utah, which is a major backcountry flying destination. Their website provides information on runway length, elevation, and specific rules or considerations for each location, which is critical for flying in Utah’s unique canyon and desert environments.
  • Idaho Aviation Association (IAA): Idaho is known for its vast network of remote mountain airstrips. The IAA maintains an interactive map and a list of these airstrips, often with information on their maintenance status, classification (e.g., “Wild,” “Primitive”), and a general guide to flying in the Idaho backcountry. Some resources may require a membership to access.
  • Arizona Pilots Association: While the Arizona Pilots Association is a general organization, they have a strong focus on backcountry flying due to the state’s rugged terrain. They often partner with the RAF and other groups on airstrip projects and provide information on remote landing zones within Arizona.

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