New identifier for reopened Maine airport

The FAA has assigned a new identifier for Red Pine Grove Airport, which is located within The Nature Conservancy’s Saint John River Forest in northern Maine.

The new identifier, 82ME, became effective Feb. 22, 2024.

The remote paved airfield, which lies just a dozen miles from Quebec, was built by International Paper as a facility for forest management, but was abandoned and closed decades ago.

Recognizing its recreational appeal and in response to wide regional interest in reopening the airport, Recreational Aviation Foundation Liaison John Nadeau initiated dialog with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) back in 2009.

Rowe and fellow Maine Liaison Steve Mason, along with RAF supporter and TNC trustee John Sowles, gathered other volunteers over several work parties and returned the airfield to a safe condition.

The RAF signed an agreement with TNC in 2022 to manage it for recreational aviation use. The North Maine Woods organization maintains recreational facilities throughout the northern part of the state, including the camping facilities at Red Pine.

Rowe claims good muskie fishing in the Saint John River, colorful fall foliage, and access to good hunting from Red Pine.

“Flying in saves hours of driving on logging roads,” he added.

For more information and the required Safety Briefing for Red Pine Grove, see the RAF’s Airfield Guide.

Rowe added that Estcourt Airport in Aroostook County has also received its FAA identifier, 19ME. Watch for more details on Estcourt and its addition to the RAF Airfield Guide in the near future.