'Fire Hubs' to dot country, protect remote airstrips

As the sponsor of the first Recreational Aviation Foundation Fire Hub, which has been built at Sun 'n Fun, AOPA's logo is engraved in one of the three blades of the hub. The Sun 'n Fun and Recreational Aviation Foundation logos appear on the other two blades. Photos by AOPA President Craig Fuller.

Campfires and camaraderie are synonymous with aviation gatherings for many pilots. For those who jet from one destination to another never exploring what’s outside of a fixed-base operation, the Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF) is ready to broaden your horizon.

“Throughout history campfires have served as gathering places,” said RAF President John McKenna in a news release. “Nothing could be more symbolic of what the RAF is all about; in fact the original decision to start the organization resulted from a camp fire discussion.”

The nonprofit organization is launching a campaign to build 50 “Fire Hubs” at aviation campsites across the country. Individuals can sponsor engraved bricks to help build the hubs. The proceeds will support the foundation’s advocacy and conservation efforts for backcountry airstrips.

AOPA is sponsoring the first Fire Hub, which will be dedicated at Sun ‘n Fun in Lakeland, Fla., on Tuesday, March 27, at 5:30 p.m. in the campground area. The bricks are already laid, and AOPA’s logo is proudly engraved on one of the three “propeller blades” in the circle; the RAF and Sun ‘n Fun logos are on the other two blades.

"AOPA is proud to support the RAF's work to protect and promote backcountry airstrips. These fields are a truly unique resource that provide unparalleled access to some of the most remote and beautiful land anywhere,” said AOPA President Craig Fuller. “Some of my favorite flying experiences have involved spending time with my fellow pilots around campfires at backcountry strips, and I know many of AOPA's members can say the same. I encourage everyone who knows the joy of camping under the wing at a remote strip to support this project."

AOPA members can order an engraved brick for $100 through the RAF’s website to be included in the Fire Hub.