By Kristinia Luke, Executive Director, Air Care Alliance
Every pilot remembers the first time they took the controls — the thrill, the freedom, the pure joy of flight. Over time, those magical moments can fade into routines of cross-country practice, airport diner runs, and cloud-chasing excursions. But for thousands of pilots nationwide, there’s a next chapter in aviation that brings meaning beyond miles: public benefit flying.
This week, during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, we’re celebrating the life-changing power of volunteer aviation — and inviting you to be a part of it. Pilots: We need your help!
Public benefit flying is exactly what it sounds like: flying to help others. Whether it’s transporting a cancer patient to a specialized treatment center, relocating a rescued dog to a forever home, flying medical supplies into disaster zones, or supporting environmental research, pilots are using their skills and aircraft for incredible good.
Each year, more than 15,000 volunteer pilots donate flights through nonprofit organizations under the umbrella of the Air Care Alliance (ACA). Together, they complete more than 40,000 humanitarian missions annually — changing lives in the air and on the ground.
Take Ataya, for example. At 2 years old, she suffered severe burns in a house fire. Thanks to a series of Angel Flights, volunteer pilots transported her to and from Shriners Children’s hospital for ongoing surgeries and rehabilitation. Now 9, she walks tall — her life forever changed by the dedication of pilot volunteers.
Or Jim, who flies for multiple ACA groups including Angel Flight West and Flights for Life. “I believe what I do can and does have a positive impact on individuals, families, and communities,” he said. “Flying gives me the opportunity to help others in ways few can.”
Volunteer missions take pilots to places they might never otherwise visit — rural airports, busy Class Bravo hubs, or even low-altitude environmental surveys. Along the way, they sharpen their skills, meet extraordinary people, and rediscover why they fell in love with aviation in the first place.
And let’s face it: Your aircraft needs to fly. Why not fly it for good?
If you’ve ever asked “What’s next?” after your $100 hamburger run, here’s your answer.
Visit the Air Care Alliance tent at the southwest corner of Boeing Plaza to learn more, meet real volunteer pilots, and find an organization that matches your skills and interests. From patient transport to animal rescue, from disaster relief to youth inspiration — there’s a seat waiting for you.
You earned your wings. Now it’s time to use them to lift others. Join the movement this week and discover just how meaningful flying can be.
Learn more at https://vpoids.aircarealliance.org/join.