Title:
RAF Developing Backcountry Airstrips - Mike Purpura - Chicago 99s Aviation Expo 2026
Topic:
Developing New Backcountry Airstrips and Operating Safely From Them
Brief Description:
This seminar will discuss backcountry aviation. How new airstrips are developed and managed. Operating from these strips can be challenging due to runway conditions, terrain, wildlife, displaced thresholds, and limited space for ground operations. The RAF will provide an overview of how these strips come into existence and how to use various resources to make sure you have the most up-to-date information about these airstrips.
After the Navy, Mike Purpura built a land-brokerage career, bought a Cessna 170B to reach remote ranches, and found aviation was the real game changer. He has flown his 170B throughout the U.S. and as far north as Tuktoyuktuk, NWT, Canada. He is a rated glider pilot, a board member of Windy City Soaring Association, and a member of AOPA and the Illinois Pilots Association
Select Number:
GL03141094
Location of Seminar:
Hilton Chicago/Northbrook
2855 Milwaukee Ave
Northbrook, IL 60062
Directions to Venue:
The Hilton Chicago/Northbrook is located south of Palatine Road (Willow Road) on the east side of Milwaukee Avenue.
View Map
Seating:
350
seats at the facility,
339
remaining for online registration.
Registration Information:
Sponsoring Division:
Greater Chicago FSDO FAASTeam GL-03
Additional Event Information & Acknowledgement of Industry Sponsor(s):
This event is organized, prepared, advertised, and presented by the volunteer efforts of the members of the Chicago Area Chapter of the Ninety-Nines, Inc, the International Organization of Women Pilots. Our intention is to provide quality educational content to improve and enhance pilots' proficiency in our area, and to provide their non-pilot passengers with the knowledge to increase their comfort on flights with their pilots.
Acronyms - AOPA-Aircraft Owner and Pilot Association
Equal Access Information:
The FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam) is committed to providing equal access to this meeting/event for all participants. If you need alternative formats or services because of a disability, please communicate your request as soon as possible with the person in the “Contact Information” area of the meeting/event notice. Note that two weeks is usually required to arrange services.
Credit Applicability:
1 Credit for Basic Knowledge Topic 2
FAASTeam Project Information:
NPP52, 63, 64
National Project:
In-person Safety Outreach to GA Pilots and Flight Instructors
Additional Event Documents: