In 2022, volunteer pilots flew 102 flights for SouthWings. Flying with strangers over remote areas, these pilots absorb the fuel costs and their time. Why? Because they want to make a difference.
volunteer pilots
Picture of the Day: A Heavenly view
Wayne Maynard submitted this photo and note: “This photo was taken on a return flight from Houston on an Angel Flight South Central mission. I transported a patient from their home to MD Anderson Cancer Center for cancer treatment. I have flown 240 mission legs over the past 17 years and have served as chairman of the organization for five years.”
STEM Flights launches new app to aid volunteer pilot mentors
STEM Flights, a national non-profit organization that uses volunteer general aviation pilots to fly kids on missions that introduce them to Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM), as well as aviation careers, has released a new mobile app.
Picture of the Day: A pilot readies his steed
Molly McCarthy submitted this photo and note: “Liga International — The Flying Doctors of Mercy volunteer pilot Charlie Brown of Phoenix, Arizona, makes calculations for weight and balance prior to transporting volunteer medical staff to El Fuerte, Mexico. The volunteer medical team will convene at the Liga International, El Fuerte Eye Clinic to provide life-changing eye surgery at no cost to residents of El Fuerte and surrounding areas.”
Another first for general aviation in prepping for disaster
On Feb. 15, 2023, another first was accomplished for general aviation, when volunteer pilots flew 210,000 surgical masks out of Skagit Regional Airport (KBVS) in Washington to Canada.
New partnership promotes general aviation’s fellowship and service
The Air Care Alliance and the International Fellowship of Flying Rotarians have created a presentation available to Rotary Clubs, as well as other organizations, that not only publicizes the availability of free air transportation for non-emergency medical and other compelling needs, but also highlights the opportunities for general aviation pilots to get involved as volunteer pilots.
New video features volunteer general aviation pilot dedicated to conservation
Now online is “Romeo November: A LightHawk Story,” which shares the story of one volunteer pilot, Chuck Schroll, and his dedication to the cause of conservation as he takes to the skies to tour three conservation projects with LightHawk partners.
Sheltair offers fuel discounts to pilots volunteering for Turtles Fly Too
Sheltair Aviation has partnered with Turtles Fly Too, a non-profit charity that uses volunteer general aviation pilots to help rescue endangered sea turtles, offering a fuel discount at all the company’s FBOs.
General Aviation’s first responders
After disaster strikes, general aviation pilots are often the first on the scene, delivering much-needed relief supplies.