Backcountry Pilot Organizations

✈️ Organizations & Advocacy

These organizations are dedicated to the preservation, maintenance, and safe enjoyment of backcountry airstrips. They are great for getting involved in the community, staying up-to-date on news, and finding fly-in events.

  • Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF): A national non-profit that works to preserve and create recreational airstrips. They are a primary source for information on backcountry strips and provide a valuable online resource called the Airfield Guide.
  • Backcountry Flying Association (BFA): An organization focused on promoting safe and responsible backcountry flying. They offer resources, forums, and a community for pilots.
  • Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA): While AOPA is a broad general aviation organization, they have a dedicated “Backcountry Resource Center” that provides guides, articles, and safety information specific to mountain and off-airport flying.
  • Utah Back Country Pilots (UBCP): A regional organization focused on the preservation and responsible use of backcountry airstrips in Utah. They provide valuable information on local airstrip conditions and techniques for flying in the region’s unique canyon environment.
  • Idaho Aviation Association (IAA): Similar to the UBCP, this association is a great resource for pilots interested in flying Idaho’s extensive network of backcountry airstrips.

???? Information, Guides & Community

These websites are excellent for research, trip planning, and connecting with other pilots. They often feature articles, forums, and videos that are invaluable for both new and experienced backcountry aviators.

  • BackcountryPilot.org: An online magazine and community forum dedicated to STOL (short takeoff and landing), off-airport, and mountain flying. It features articles on aircraft, destinations, pilot techniques, and survival.
  • The Airfield Guide: Maintained by the RAF, this is a comprehensive, pilot-submitted directory of backcountry airstrips across the United States. It’s an essential tool for trip planning and includes details on runway conditions, amenities, and user-submitted photos and reports.
  • Backcountry Connection: This site, run by a Maule and American Champion aircraft dealer, includes a blog with articles and information relevant to backcountry and STOL aviation.

????‍✈️ Training & Safety

Backcountry flying requires specific skills beyond a standard pilot’s license. These resources offer educational materials and training opportunities to help pilots prepare for the challenges of this unique environment.

  • Mountain Flying Bible: While not a website, this book by Sparky Imeson is considered the definitive guide for mountain flying techniques and is a must-have resource for any pilot looking to fly in mountainous terrain.
  • AOPA Air Safety Institute (ASI): The ASI offers free online courses, videos, and guides on various topics, including mountain flying, density altitude, and risk management. Their backcountry resources are an excellent starting point for a pilot looking to increase their knowledge.

???? Influencers & Entertainment

For inspiration and to see backcountry flying in action, these are some of the most popular names in the space. They produce high-quality videos and content that showcase the beauty and challenges of flying in remote areas.

  • The Flying Cowboys: A group of well-known pilots, including Trent Palmer and Kevin Quinn, who are famous for their stunning videos of backcountry flying adventures. They showcase extreme STOL performance and unique destinations.
  • STOL Drag: This is a competitive form of STOL flying that has its own website and events. It’s a great way to see pilots push the limits of their aircraft and skills.

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