The Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF) Has Been Working For Several Years To Re-Open North Fox Island Airstrip

Many volunteer man hours have gone into preparation and negotiations in order to reclaim and return the airstrip to a safe condition. North Fox Island is approximately 27 miles northwest of Charlevoix, MI.

“The RAF is pleased to announce our completion of a formal agreement with the State of Michigan to open North Fox Island,” said RAF President John McKenna. The 3,000-foot turf runway has displaced thresholds with 60-foot trees on both ends and along the sides. It is now open to the public and will appear on the chart as 6Y3.

“This is a spectacular recreational aviation destination that fits right in with the mission of the RAF,” said RAF Michigan Liaison Brad Frederick, who oversaw much of the volunteer labor and substantial logistical challenges. “Restoration of the airfield, cones, windsock, and mowing equipment have all been done by a group of tireless volunteers,” he added.

Volunteers will be tapped to assist with ongoing maintenance, another successful model the RAF employs to keep backcountry airstrips safe and desirable at minimal expense to public entities.

North Fox Island is owned by the State of Michigan and under the authority and care of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. They have rules regarding the islands use as it is a State Wildlife and Game Area and those can be found by going to their website www.michigan.gov/dnr.

Camping on the airstrip with your airplane is approved year around. The RAF is placing one fire ring on the airfield, and this is the only place approved for an open fire. The RAF says this is a wilderness area with an emphasis on primitive, what you take in you must take out. No wheeled vehicles on island trails or beaches.

For the sake of safety, the RAF recommends you take life jackets and or a life raft, and a. satellite phone if you can. Let someone know when you go and when to expect your return. More information about this unique site can be found on the RAF website or through the State of Michigan.

The Recreational Aviation Foundation is a public 501(c)3 non-profit organization formed to “preserve, maintain and create public use recreational and backcountry airstrips nationwide.”

(Images provided by the RAF)

FMI: www.theraf.org