Division of Aeronautics
Info & Contacts
Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) Division of Aeronautics
Phone: 208-334-8775 | 1390 Gowen Road, Boise, ID 83705 (Directions & map) | Title VI & the Americans with Disabilities Act
Contact Us: Idaho.Aeronautics@itd.idaho.gov
Stay informed! Sign up for the “Rudder Flutter” newsletter
To find specific events, type the location or other key words into the “Search” box below to sort information.
| Date | Event | Contact Information |
|---|---|---|
| November 1 to April 30 | Reed Ranch airstrip use is limited from Nov. 1 – April 30 to. Emergency Use Only due to big game winter habitat. | Dan.Conner@itd.idaho.gov 208-484-1521 |
| Start Date: April 20, 2025 | Start for Cavanaugh Bay airstrip, Porthill airstrip & Garden Valley airstrip. | Dan.Conner@itd.idaho.gov 208-484-1521 |
Group Fly-Ins
If your group would like to host a fly-in, you will need to review the information packet covering the necessary requirements and complete an application form.
Your application must be filled out completely, signed, and returned ASAP for planning purposes.
- Host a Fly-in Agreement Information Packet
- Fly-In Application Form – Filled out completely and submit to: Airport.Management@itd.idaho.gov
- Or mail your signed agreement to:
- Division of Aeronautics, Attn: Airport Manager
- 1390 W Gowen Rd, Boise, ID 83705
Aeronautics Aircrafts – An employee of the State of Idaho can use state aircraft to travel for business purposes. Our pilots are top notch and will get you to your meeting on time and even on short notice.
To request a flight or information about a flight go to:
Other benefits of flying with Aero:
- Payment is streamlined
- We set up the payment for you and will direct bill your agency.
- Our pilots will wait for you
- *Only $64 per pilot per hour!
- Saves money
- No need to pay for a hotel room for each passenger, plus per diems, rental cars, mileage reimbursements, etc.
- Better ROI (return on investment)
- An important factor to consider is the hourly pay of each traveler and the total time they are spent in travel status. Managers and high-level executives time is valued and should be considered when deciding on travel options.
- The average rate of pay for “Directors” in the State of Idaho is $60 per hour.
- A full 8-hour day spent driving and having to stay overnight is ~$480 in wages that was spent traveling whereas it could possibly be spent contributing to business operations.
- No TSA check or waiting in long lines
- No long lines, or having to remove your belt and shoes, or getting a body scan.
- Arrive 15-30 minutes before the flight and enjoy coffee, water, tea and snacks in our lobby.
- Free Parking
- Parking is available at no charge in our lot and this includes overnight or multiple days.
- Our parking lot has a security gate which locks from 5 p.m. to 6 a.m. daily.
See Aeronautics Upcoming Events for Board Meeting Dates and Agenda (above)
John Blakley, Chairman | Boise, ID | Term: 1/2022 – 1/2027
Email: jblakley@avcenter.com | Phone: 208-466-5432
• John Blakley Biography
Todd Hitchcock, Member | Twin Falls, ID | Term: 1/2020 – 1/2025
Email: spuraviation@gmail.com | Phone: 208-794-2444
• Todd Hitchcock Biography
Chris Pomeroy, Member | Hailey, ID | Term: 1/2021 – 2026
Email: chris@iflysun.com | Phone: 208-788-9003
• Chris Pomeroy Biography
James Hoff, Member | Idaho Falls, ID | Term: 4/2023 – 1/2028
Email: idahjames@aol.com | Phone: 208-521-9093
• James Hoff Biography
Robb Bloem, Member | Hayden, ID | Term: 5/9/2024 – 1/2029
Email: robb@stancraftboats.com | Phone: 208-772-6404
• Robb Bloem Biography
Thomas Mahoney | Division Administrator | Phone: 208-912-4024
Thomas.Mahoney@itd.idaho.gov
Neil Vickrey | Technical Records Specialist | Phone: 208-334-8779
Neil.Vickrey@itd.idaho.gov
- Aircraft & Dealer Registration
- Accounts Payable
- Accounts Receivable
- Aeronautics customer service
- Budget
Tim Steffen | Flight Operations Director | Phone: 208-559-1542
Tim.Steffen@itd.idaho.gov
- Pilot
- Part 107, sUAS Pilot
- State-owned aircraft operations
- State emergency response contact
- Safety Stand Down
- Search and Rescue Coordinator | Safety Seminars
Dan Conner | Airport Manager | Phone: 208-484-1521
Dan.Conner@itd.idaho.gov
- Maintenance of 32 state-owned airstrips
- Volunteer & Adopt-an-Airport agreements
- Manages seasonal caretakers
- Status of state owned airports
- Courtesy car management
Steffen Verdin | Planning & Development Manager | Phone: 208-334-8784
Steffen.Verdin@itd.idaho.gov
- Municipal airport grant program
- Statewide aviation system planning
- Statewide airfield pavement evaluation
- Multi-year airport development program
- Municipal airport project status
- Airport layout planning
- Technical assistance to airport owners and operators
Christopher Johnston | Transportation Planner | Phone: 208-334-8640
Chris.Johnston@itd.idaho.gov
- Prepare and manage annual SCIP
- Prepare and manage the Non-Primary Entitlement Program
- Plan and manage the Airport Layout Plan (ALP) Program and grants for the FAA
Flo Ghighina | Airport Inspector | Phone: 208-866-1558
Flo.Ghighina@itd.idaho.gov
- FAA 5010 and state airport safety inspections
- Evaluation of airspace obstructions and compliance
- Airport lighting and maintenance supplies
- Liaison for back country and wilderness airstrips
- Technical assistance for airports
- Part 107, sUAS Pilot
- Search and Rescue
Tim Henderson | Aircraft Mechanic | Phone: 208-559-4049
Tim.Henderson@itd.idaho.gov
- Maintain state-owned aircraft
- Master Technician
- Part 107, sUAS Pilot
- Hazmat coordinator
- Search & Rescue
Justin Fort | Sr. Utility Craftsman | Phone: 208-631-5074
Justin.Fort@itd.idaho.goov
- Maintain state-owned airports
Bill Lindenau | Sr. Utility Craftsman
Bill.Lindenau@itd.idaho.gov
- Maintain state-owned airports
Aircraft & Dealer Registration
Aircraft Registration & Renewal
Registrations are due annually by December 31 for the next registration year.
What do I need for online renewal of an aircraft registration?
- The number appearing above your name on your renewal notice
- A valid credit card & its billing address
- Online payments for EXACT renewal amount ONLY
- If you are a DEALER – STOP! Do NOT use the Online Aircraft Registration Renewal site.
- You must annually email or mail your completed “Idaho Dealership Registration & Inventory” form to the Division of Aeronautics.
- Please include additional fees with your payment for the number of Aircraft Decals that you need.
Form: > Register New Aircraft in Idaho
Use the above (mail-in) form for NEWLY-Acquired Aircraft, or NEW-to-Idaho Aircraft, whether privately owned, business owned, or charter/leased.
Form: > STATUS CHANGE for Aircraft Registration
Use the above (mail-in) form for making changes to your aircraft status, change of personal or business contact information, or by Dealers updating their inventory during the year as their inventory fluctuates.
Form: > Idaho Dealer Registration & Inventory
Use the above (mail-in) form when applying for Dealer Registration, or when a Dealer is reporting their aircraft inventory at the beginning of a new registration year (currently for sale and flown for demo purposes only). Dealers are required to provide the Idaho Division of Aeronautics information regarding the ownership and details for each aircraft in their inventory. Dealer registration fee is $40 per year plus $1 for each aircraft decal.
Dealers must also register planes flown for their personal or business use separately.
- Idaho Aircraft Registration “Status Change” Form – For use by Dealers when updating their inventory during the year as their inventory fluctuates.
• Frequently Asked Questions about Aircraft Registration
Registration fees collected support the Division’s efforts to maintain backcountry airports, conduct search & rescue operations, and provide all Aeronautics services.
- Registration is in lieu of personal property tax. | Required by Idaho Code 21.114
If you have questions or need airport directories, please email the Division of Aeronautics or call: 208-334-8775
Click to review Frequently Asked Questions | Renewal for UPCOMING registration year due by December 31
- Idaho Aircraft Registration Application – Form to register newly-acquired aircraft or new-to-Idaho aircraft (privately owned, business owned, or charter/leased)
- Idaho Dealership Registration & Inventory Form – Use to apply for Dealer Registration | ALSO, use annually by Dealer to report aircraft inventory at beginning of each registration year (aircraft currently for sale and flown for demo purposes only)
- Idaho Aircraft Registration “Status Change” Form – Use form to change your aircraft status, contact information, or Dealers updating their inventory during the year
- Official 406 MHz ELT Registration Form
- NOAA Beacon Registration Forms
- FAA Registration Forms
Backcountry Airports
Idaho Airport Facilities Directory (PDF format)
• For a hard copy of this directory email: Division of Aeronautics or call 208-334-8775.
Idaho Division of Aeronautics proudly manages and maintains over 30 backcountry airstrips throughout the state. We are governed by Idaho Recreational Use Statutes and Idaho Code. We ask that our guests keep it clean and green for the beauty and adventure that Idaho has to offer, and assist in our continued efforts in keeping the locations safe and enjoyable for all users.
Provide feedback on Idaho’s Backcountry Airports
- Take this survey: Idaho Backcountry Airport Safety & Conditions Survey
Group Fly-Ins
If your group would like to host a fly-in, you need to review the information packet covering the necessary requirements and complete an application form.
Your application must be filled out completely, signed, and returned ASAP for planning purposes.
- Host a Fly-in Agreement Information Packet
- Fly-In Application Form – Filled out completely and submit to: Airport.Management@itd.idaho.gov
- Or mail your signed agreement to:
- Division of Aeronautics, Attn: Airport Manager
- 1390 W Gowen Rd, Boise, ID 83705
Four of our most popular backcountry airstrips offer Courtesy Cars, and many locations have campgrounds for our flying public. Courtesy cars are on a “first come/first served” basis, and donations are very much appreciated. We DO NOT accept reservations for any amenities, at any location.
| Airstrips with Courtesy Cars | Operations (Conditions Permitting) | Contact Phone Numbers |
|---|---|---|
Cavanaugh Bay (66S) | Open Year Round, however NO Winter Maintenance provided. Summer Caretaking Operations: Mid-April to Mid-Sept. • Cavanaugh Bay Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) | Winter Operations: (Boise) 208-334-8893 On-site Caretakers: 208-443-2721 |
Garden Valley (U88) | Open Year Round, however NO Winter Maintenance provided. Summer Caretaking Operations: Mid-April to Mid-Sept. • Garden Valley Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) | Winter Operations: (Boise) 208-334-8893 On-site Caretakers:: 208-462-6036 |
Johnson Creek (3U2) aka Yellow Pine | Open Year Round, however NO Winter Maintenance provided. Summer Caretaking Operations: Mid-May to Mid-Sept. • Johnson Creek Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) • VIDEO: Johnson Creek SOPs | Winter Operations: (Boise) 208-334-8893 On-site Caretakers:: 208-633-3333 |
Smiley Creek (U87) | Open Year Round, however NO Winter Maintenance provided. Summer Caretaking Operations: Mid-May to Mid-Sept. • Smiley Creek Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) • VIDEO: Smiley Creek SOPs | Winter Operations: (Boise) 208-334-8893 On-site Caretakers:: 208-774-2984 |
The Idaho Airstrip Network (IAN) Steering Committee continues working towards full implementation of the Action Plan which was approved by the Idaho Transportation Board (ITB) in July of 2005.
- Final IAN Action Plan
- Idaho Aviation Association (IAA) Website with map of IAN Airstrips
Planning & Development
| Title & Web Link | Description | Resources | Based on Law, Rule, or Other | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Idaho Airport System Plan | A comprehensive plan for linking statewide aviation facilities with those of the nation and the world. | • Idaho Airport System Plan (IASP) | Executive Summary, July 2020 • Idaho Airport Economic Impact Analysis • IASP Final Technical Report | FAA requirement | Airport.Planning@itd.idaho.gov |
| Airport Pavement Inspection Report | Airfield pavement inspections through the use of a Network Pavement Management System (NPMS). | • Interactive Pavement Management Tool | FAA requirement | Airport.Planning@itd.idaho.gov |
| Airport Capital Improvement Plan | A continuous, multi-year funding program that will assess short-term and long-term airport improvement needs. | FAA requirement | Airport.Planning@itd.idaho.gov | |
| Airport Supplies | Airport materials available from the Division of Aeronautics | • Airport Supply Order Form | Idaho Administrative Code 39.04.01 | Airport.Planning@itd.idaho.gov |
| Land Use surrounding airports | Effective compatible land use planning around airports addresses airspace, safety, and noise considerations. | • Land Use Guidelines | Land Use Guidelines | Airport.Planning@itd.idaho.gov |
| Idaho Airport Aid Program | Provides funding to qualified airports to assist with approved airport projects. | • ITD Web Grants link | Idaho Administrative Code 39.04.01 | Airport.Planning@itd.idaho.gov |
| Obstruction Evaluations near an airport | Structures in excess of 200 feet or those of a lower height located within 20,000 feet of a public-use airport are required to notify Division of Aeronautics of construction. | Idaho Administrative Code 39.04.01 | Airport.Planning@itd.idaho.gov | |
| FAA Notice of Construction near an airport | The requirements for filing with the Federal Aviation Administration for proposed structures vary based on a number of factors: height, proximity to an airport, location, and frequencies emitted from the structure, etc. | • FAA Obstruction Notification Tool | 14 CFR Part 77.9 | FAA Contacts |
The Division of Aeronautics is under contract with the FAA to inspect 121 public-use airports in the state of Idaho. These inspections are conducted on a three year cycle. The inspection includes verification of airport data, services, and evaluation of runway/taxiway surfaces and navigation aids. Airport Facility Directories issued by both the State of Idaho and the Federal Aviation Administration are updated using information gathered during the inspection. Interaction with Airport Managers or sponsors during the inspection provides an opportunity to address safety and maintenance issues. Between inspections, airport managers or sponsors can assist in keeping airport specific data current by contacting the Aviation Technician to report changes or corrections.
For more information contact: Flo Ghighina, Airport.Planning@itd.idaho.gov, 208-334-8895
Airport Supplies
Click to download the following fillable form:
Airport Supply Order Form
Dear IDAHO Airport Manager
To submit a request, please download the Airport Supply Order Form which includes a list of airport materials that are available from the Idaho Transportation Department, Division of Aeronautics.
- The material may be ordered for use on any public owned, public use airport in the state of Idaho
- Not available to privately owned airports or airstrips
These items are normally kept in stock and are available for shipment. Items listed are provided free of charge. For supplies not listed, the Division of Aeronautics may be able to provide source information to airport managers/owners.
Contact: Flo Ghighina, Airport.Planning@itd.idaho.gov, 208-334-8895
Safety & Education
Introducing Idaho’s Youth to Careers in Aviation!
- Aviation Career Exploration (ACE) Academy is available to ages 14-18.
- ACE Academy introduces high school students to aviation and space-related careers.
- Activities may involve field trips, forums, and a hands-on satellite project.
**The Idaho Division of Aeronautics, regrettably will not have an Aviation Career Exploration (ACE) Academy the summer of 2025.**
We have had a challenging year with personnel shortages, but are turning the corner and filling many of our vacant positions.
We are sad to miss a year showcasing aviation careers to young Idahoans, but will be back strong next year with a full staff and time to plan an excellent comeback.
News on the 2026 ACE Academy and registration information will be available in January of 2026. The 2026 ACE Academy is scheduled for 17-19 June, 2026.
Please mark your calendars, as always the success of ACE Academy depends on our community partners and volunteers. We will have registration for kids and for chaperones if you are interested, and we are always looking for speakers, tours, and our great collection of volunteer pilots.
ACE Academy is a three day summer camp built to showcase aviation career fields to kids in Junior High and High School.
This 2026 ACE Academy will take place in Boise. If you are interested in planning an ACE Academy in another part of the state please contact us by October of 2025 and we will see how we can assist you in your planning process.
See you next year!
Tim
For further questions, email: Idaho.Aeronautics@itd.idaho.gov
2025 Aviation Safety Stand Down was held March 8, 2025
This annual event presents topics and discussions to improve pilot safety in Idaho.
FREE event for Aviators
When registering for this event use your FAA WINGS email address for WINGS Credit.
For additional information, email: Idaho.Aeronautics@itd.idaho.gov
Opportunity for Idaho students from Ages 5-18 to exhibit their Artist View of Aviation!
2025 Aviation Art Contest
Theme: Flying Yesterday & Tomorrow
Sponsored by Idaho Division of Aeronautics
Aviation Art Contest Prizes
- First place winners:
- Invitation to ride in an airplane
- Copy of their artwork signed by our Governor
- Congratulatory letter
- Second place winners:
- Receive $25 in art supplies
- Congratulatory letter
Artwork Categories by Age:
- 5–6 years old
- 7–9 years old
- 10–12 years old
- 13–15 years old
- 16–18 years old
Contact: Idaho.Aeronautics@itd.idaho.gov
Last Year: 2024 Idaho Aviation Art Contest Winning Entries
Theme was “Careers in Aerospace”
The Idaho Aviation Accident Score Card (IAASC) provides details on all Idaho aircraft accidents that have occurred from the NTSB’s latest Probable Cause issuances. The source of data accumulated in this IAASC is compiled directly from the NTSB aviation database.
IAASC specifically includes total number of fatal accidents, fatalities, class of aircraft, pilot qualifications, and weather conditions at the time of the accident. In addition, IAASC provides an overview of Idaho aviation safety trends while final investigations of these accidents are being conducted by the NTSB. It will be published annually during the first quarter of the following year.
For ideas, comments or suggestions, we would be glad to hear from you.
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are proven operating practices that will ensure your Idaho flying experience is a safe and enjoyable one.
Pilot Tools
Airport Facilities Directory
ITD Internet Disclaimer – The State of Idaho and the Transportation Department have no input whatsoever as to the content of Internet data, with the exception in part of the Transportation Departments own home page. The State of Idaho and the Transportation Department do not endorse the viewpoints or vouch for the accuracy or authenticity of electronic data or information available via the Internet. The State of Idaho and the Transportation Department will not deny or limit access to the electronic data or information available via the Internet because of its allegedly controversial content or frivolous value. Information retrieved or utilized electronically is considered constitutionally protected until such time as otherwise determined by a court of competent jurisdiction.
Aviation-Related Sites
Pilot Tools
- Density Altitude Chart for Take Off & Landing – InterActive Aviation KOCH Chart
- FAA Density Altitude Information
- Idaho Aviation Network (IAN)
- GPS Jamming in General Aviation
- Learn to Turn – A Stick & Rudder Approach to Reducing Loss of Control
- Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for popular Idaho backcountry airports
- UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) Pilot Resources
- Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) – FAA Resources
- Welcome to Flying Idaho
Resources
- AirNav – Idaho Airports
- Idaho Airport Inspections & Impact Studies
- *NEW* Webcams & Weather Resources – Links to cameras & weather stations in the Idaho region
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Entities
Division of Aeronautics Web Links
Aeronautics Information
- Aeronautics Aircraft Scheduling Calendar
- Aeronautics Staff Contacts | Advisory Board
- Aircraft Registration & FAQs
- Airport Manager Supplies
- Be informed! Sign up for the “Rudder Flutter” newsletter
- Calendar of Events
- Report missing or overdue aircraft, or an aircraft accident to:
- Idaho State Communications: 208-846-7600 or 800-632-8000
- The FAA Operations (Seattle Office): 1-800-231-2000
- Airport Inspections & Impact Studies
- Backcountry Airstrips & Courtesy Cars
- Idaho 511 Road Report, Weather & Webcams – includes two Backcountry Airstrips Webcams
- Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for popular Idaho Backcountry Airstrips
Runway Marking Plan
Aviation in Idaho
Idaho Aviation Groups
Idaho Aviation Companies