Frequently Asked Questions
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What is Angel Flight East?
Angel Flight East (AFE) is a nonprofit volunteer pilot organization dedicated to facilitating free air transportation to children and adults in need of medical treatment far from home, and other compelling needs. AFE’s footprint is Virginia to Ohio to Maine.
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If I need the services of Angel Flight East, how much will it cost?
All Angel Flight East services are free, with no insurance required.
Our volunteer pilots use their own aircraft and cover all flight expenses, including fuel and fees. -
What type of flights does Angel Flight East do?
Angel Flight East coordinates non-emergency air transportation for patients who need to travel long distances for medical care. We also provide compassion flights related to serious health conditions.
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Does Angel Flight East provide flights for people in non-medical situations?
Yes, such a flight would be considered a compassion flight. A few examples include visiting a loved one in treatment and providing disaster relief.
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Who can request a flight?
Requests come from individuals, social workers, physicians, and other health care professionals. A provider must verify a passenger’s financial need and medical suitability to fly.
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What are the criteria for receiving a flight?
Angel Flight East is not an air ambulance service. Passengers must be medically stable, ambulatory, and able to sit upright for the duration of the flight. AFE requires patients have a compelling need and must have a medical approval form signed by their doctor before coordinating the flight. Once all necessary paperwork is filled out and approved, mission coordinators will begin looking for pilots. We require a 5-7 day notice to schedule a flight.
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After I submit my request, is my flight guaranteed?
Unfortunately, we cannot 100% guarantee your flight. Passengers are always made aware to have a backup plan or be flexible with rescheduling their appointment. Although we have a large network of pilots, these men and women are all volunteers. We do not have any on call pilots. Other reasons for cancellation may include weather and mechanical issues.
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How many times can I fly with Angel Flight East?
There is no limit to the amount of times you can use our service.
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How can I become involved?
Angel Flight East has many ways to become involved. As a pilot, you must have a private pilot’s license, 300 hours of logged flight time, be instrument-rated, and current for the carriage of passengers.
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