Frequently Asked Questions
Are Angel Flight Mid-Atlantic flights safe?
Yes! Safety is our top priority. All Angel Flight Mid-Atlantic pilots hold FAA commercial pilot licenses or private pilot certificates with extensive experience, have a minimum of 500 Pilot-in-Command hours, maintain current medical certifications, fly aircraft that meet FAA safety standards and are regularly inspected, check weather conditions and only fly in safe conditions, and have the authority to postpone or cancel flights if conditions aren't ideal. Many of our Angel Flight Mid-Atlantic volunteer pilots are retired airline pilots, military pilots or experienced aviation professionals who are passionate about using their skills to assist others.
Are there weight restrictions for volunteer pilot flights?
Yes. For safety reasons, volunteer pilot flights have weight and balance requirements set by the FAA and aircraft manufacturers. Passengers over 250 pounds may not be able to fly on small private aircraft, depending on the specific aircraft, number of passengers, fuel load and distance of the flight. This is simply a matter of aircraft physics and safety regulations that all pilots must follow. If weight is a concern, let us know when you submit your request so we can find the best transportation option for you. We can arrange commercial flight assistance instead, which has higher weight capacities and can accommodate passengers of all sizes safely and comfortably. Our goal is to get you to your medical appointment safely. We'll work with you to find the right transportation solution, and we handle these conversations with complete confidentiality and respect.
Are the gas cards reloadable?
No. Gas cards are not reloadable. A new card is sent each month you are approved for ongoing assistance.
Can I get my complete giving history?
Log in to your donor portal to view your full donation history. Download reports as PDF or CSV for tax purposes.
Can I include Mercy Medical Angels in my estate plans?
Absolutely! Visit our website to learn about planned giving options and get the information you need to include Mercy Medical Angels in your estate plans.
Can I donate airline miles or credit card points?
Yes for airline miles! We accept miles from Delta SkyWish, United MileagePlus, American Airlines and Southwest Rapid Rewards. Visit our website for direct links to donate your miles.
Can I donate my car or other vehicles?
Yes! We accept cars, trucks, boats, RVs and motorcycles. Towing is free nationwide and your donation is tax deductible. Donate your vehicle
Can I dedicate my donation in honor or memory of someone?
Yes! When donating, you can add a dedication during checkout, request a tribute card be sent (mailed within 48 hours) and include their name in our annual report (optional).
Are you audited by an independent organization?
Yes, we're audited annually by an independent CPA firm. We're also rated by Charity Navigator and meet all Better Business Bureau charity standards.
Are sponsorship contributions tax-deductible?
Yes, sponsorships are tax-deductible as charitable contributions. The fair market value of any benefits received (like event tickets) reduces the deductible portion. We'll provide documentation showing your deductible amount. Consult your tax advisor for specific guidance.
Am I able to see your financial statements or annual report?
Yes! Full transparency is important to us. You can download our annual report, view audited financial statements and access our IRS Form 990 [link]. All documents are updated annually by March 31st.
What types of aircraft are normally used for missions?
Most missions use single-engine, four- to six-seat aircraft. Some missions use twin-engine or turboprop aircraft. Experimental aircraft are not approved for transporting patients due to insurance and safety considerations.
What kind of liability applies to volunteer pilot missions?
Patients and escorts sign a liability waiver before flights. Good-Samaritan-style protections may apply to public-benefit flights flown without charge. For specific legal details, consult legal counsel and authoritative sources.
What insurance coverage is required for pilots?
Pilots must carry a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance, with no less than $100,000 per seat, on any aircraft used for Angel Flights. This coverage must be active and verifiable before any mission is assigned. Mercy Medical Angels does not provide supplemental insurance and cannot share costs associated with pilot coverage.
What happens if I need to cancel a mission as a pilot?
Safety always comes first. Pilots should cancel if weather, mechanical issues or personal emergencies arise. Contact the Transportation Coordinator at 757-679-0330 during business hours or 800-683-2659 after hours, and email afmalogistics@mercymedical.org as soon as you know of the change. Our staff will notify the passenger and work to arrange alternate transport.
What are the minimum flight hour requirements to volunteer as a pilot?
To qualify as a command pilot, you must have a minimum of 500 Pilot-in-Command (PIC) hours. Pilots still building hours may assist in other support roles until they meet the PIC requirement.
How far in advance are volunteer pilots contacted about missions?
Patients are asked to provide 7-10 full business days' notice when possible. However, short-notice requests can occur due to last-minute appointment changes, weather delays or mechanical issues with previously arranged flights.
How far do volunteer pilots typically fly per leg?
Routes are planned to keep individual legs around 200-300 nautical miles. For longer trips, missions are linked with other volunteer pilots from different regions. Pilots can volunteer for multiple legs if their aircraft and schedule allow.
How do volunteer pilot flights get coordinated?
A Transportation Coordinator screens patient applications for eligibility and medical approval, then posts missions on missions.angelflightmidatlantic.org. Volunteer pilots review mission details, accept flights they can support and coordinate timing, FBO locations and weather forecasts directly with the passenger.
Do I have to own a plane to volunteer as a pilot?
No, but you must have ready access to one. Minimum requirements include 12 hours flown in the last 90 days and at least 50 hours time-in-type. Some missions may arise on short notice, so reliable aircraft access is essential.
How are flight expenses handled for volunteer pilots?
Pilots volunteer their time and cover aircraft, fuel and all other flight costs. These expenses cannot be charged to or shared by the patient. Many FBOs offer fuel discounts for humanitarian flights, and some airports waive landing fees. Ask your local FBO about available discounts.
Do I need an Instrument Rating to fly missions?
An instrument rating (IFR) is strongly encouraged but not required for all missions. Many patient flights are affected by weather conditions, and pilots with IFR certification can safely accept more missions and provide more consistent service. While we may prioritize IFR-rated pilots for certain flights, VFR-only pilots are welcome to apply and will still have opportunities to serve when conditions and routes allow.
Can I use a rented or club aircraft for missions?
Yes. Pilots may use aircraft they rent, lease or have access to through a flying club or flight school, provided all insurance and FAA requirements are met.
What is Angel Wings for Veterans?
Angel Wings for Veterans is our specialized program serving Veterans, active-duty military members, first responders and their families. This program provides transportation assistance for travel to distant medical care and specialty treatments, PTSD and TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) treatment access, service dog acquisition and training, healing retreats and therapeutic programs (such as equine-assisted therapy), adaptive sports events and wellness programs, and reunion travel with family members. Veterans can apply for the same air and ground transportation services as all our patients, with additional support for Veteran-specific needs.
Do you assist with travel to healing retreats or therapeutic programs?
Yes. Angel Wings for Veterans can provide transportation assistance for Veterans traveling to healing retreats focused on PTSD, TBI or Veteran wellness, equine-assisted therapy programs, adaptive sports events and clinics, wilderness therapy or outdoor recreation programs, and other therapeutic programs specifically designed for Veterans. These programs must be vetted and focused on Veteran health and wellness. Include program details and appointment/event dates in your request for approval.
Do I qualify for Angel Wings for Veterans if I'm a Veteran?
Yes. Veterans, active-duty service members and first responders are eligible for transportation assistance if they meet the same basic criteria as other patients: traveling for medical care, treatment or service dog acquisition; household income at or below 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines; traveling a minimum distance of 100 miles total in a month; providing at least 7-10 days' advance notice; and being ambulatory and medically stable for travel. We understand that Veterans may need transportation for Veteran-specific services beyond traditional medical appointments, such as counseling, rehabilitation or adaptive programs. Please contact us to discuss your specific needs. We'll assist in determining the best travel option available.
Do I need to provide proof of military service?
Yes. You will need to provide your DD214 to verify your military service.
Can you assist me travel to get a service dog?
Yes! Angel Wings for Veterans provides transportation assistance for Veterans traveling to vetted service dog organizations to pick up a trained service dog, participate in service dog training programs and attend service dog evaluation appointments. This assistance is available for Veterans with PTS, TBI or other service-connected conditions who are working with accredited service dog organizations. Submit your request and include information about the service dog program and your appointment schedule.
What patient information do I need to submit a referral?
To submit a complete referral, you'll need the patient's full name, date of birth, address, phone and email; appointment details (date, time, facility name and address, treating physician); patient's medical condition (general information, not detailed medical records); proof of patient's income (tax return, SSI letter, bank statements or pay stubs); appointment verification (letter, portal screenshot or email from medical facility); and patient's mobility status and any special medical needs.
What if my patient doesn't meet the income guidelines but has significant medical debt?
If a patient's income exceeds the standard eligibility limits but they're facing substantial medical debt, we can review the situation on a case-by-case basis. We'll ask for documentation verifying the medical debt, such as billing statements or payment plans. Once received, the request is referred to upper management for review and approval. Our goal is to ensure that patients with genuine financial hardship still have access to the care and transportation they need.
How do I refer a patient to Mercy Medical Angels?
You have two options: Complete the request on behalf of your patient by filling out the online form with the patient's information and required documents, or give the link directly to the patient or family so they can complete it themselves. Both options are available through our online request system.
Can social workers or case managers request on behalf of patients?
Yes! Healthcare professionals can request assistance for their patients. You have two options: Complete the form on behalf of the patient by providing all patient information and required documents, or generate a shareable link to create a unique link/QR code to give to the patient or family so they can complete the form themselves (this protects patient privacy/HIPAA). We understand that social workers and case managers play a crucial role in connecting patients with resources. We've designed our process to make it easy for you to assist your patients access transportation to medical care.
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