ANGEL FLIGHT Using your certificate for good THERE IS NOTHING more special than being able to use something you love for a good cause. Transporting patients in need of medical care to appointments in far-off places via general aviation is one of those good causes. Angel Flight is one of many organizations around the country that matches pilots with patients, and makes these flights possible. The principle of Angel Flight is simple. Getting access to the best medical care is critical, and nothing is better at this than a pilot and an airplane. But if you live in rural Vermont and need to get to Boston to see the right doctor, AFTER THE CHECKRIDE BY IAN J. TWOMBLY driving to each appointment could snuff out any ideas of seeking the best care. Angel Flight pilots donate their time, money, and airplane for the opportunity to give someone who needs it the best shot at the proper medical care. The Angel Flight name refers to a series of independent regional organizations, each with slightly different requirements and needs. Requirements may range from an instrument rating to 250 hours of flight time. Go online (www.aircareall.org) to find the organization close to you. HOW TO HELP: • Join your local group and fly patients. • Fly along as a co-pilot if you don’t yet meet the requirements. • Donate your time with administrative tasks. CHECKLIST... REMEMBER that in most cases you’ll be donating all expenses, including fuel. TYPICAL missions are fewer than 300 miles one way. PATIENTS must be medically stable to be eligible for a flight, and pilots are not expected to care for patients. STEVE KARP JANUARY 2012 FLIGHT TRAINING / 13http://www.aircareall.org