Backcountry etiquette campaign rolls out

The Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF) has released its best practices for backcountry flying etiquette.

The non-profit organization’s Backcountry Etiquette Team (BET) began rolling out its initial messaging to the GA flying public in late May 2025.

RAF officials noted that the organization has partnered with the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), Tread Lightly, and state pilot organizations on the initiative, which is designed to raise awareness “on the importance of respecting the backcountry to preserve access to these special places.”

The BET spent the past year planning the most effective ways to communicate best practices when accessing the backcountry, according to RAF officials.

Graphic artist and RAF Volunteer Edie Wells designed a sign featuring etiquette tips that you’ll see at gateway airport FBOs beginning in the western states. The sign campaign will gradually expand to include the rest of the U.S., RAF officials said.

The signs promote these principles while in the backcountry:

• Be considerate of other recreational users
• Safely reduce your noise signature
• Train at home — No touch and goes in the backcountry
• Pack it in/Pack it out
• Use CTAF (typically 122.9 in the western states) and minimize chatter.

In short, “Fly. Stay. Play,” RAF officials reiterated.

For more information: TheRAF.org