Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
This section provides answers to common questions about Helping Wings, our mission, and how you can get involved. If you don’t find the information you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Volunteer Pilots
Q: What are the requirements to become a volunteer pilot with Helping Wings?
A: Our pilot requirements typically include holding a valid pilot’s license (specific ratings may apply), having access to a suitable aircraft, meeting insurance requirements, and undergoing a background check. Please contact our team via contact form for detailed criteria.
Q: What types of flights do volunteer pilots typically undertake?
A: Our volunteer pilots primarily fly children and their accompanying guardians to and from specialized medical appointments, often over distances that would be burdensome or impossible for families to manage otherwise.
Q: How are flights coordinated and scheduled?
A: When a transportation need arises, our coordination team reaches out to our network of available and qualified volunteer pilots in the relevant region with the flight details. Pilots can then volunteer for flights that fit their availability and aircraft capabilities.
Q: Am I reimbursed for flight expenses?
A: While volunteer pilots generously donate their time and aircraft, Helping Wings may be able to provide limited reimbursement for certain direct flight-related expenses, subject to our policies and available funding. This will be discussed during the pilot onboarding process.
Q: What kind of insurance coverage is required?
A: Volunteer pilots are required to maintain specific levels of aircraft insurance coverage. Our pilot recruitment team will provide detailed information on these requirements.
Q: How much time commitment is involved in being a volunteer pilot?
A: The time commitment varies greatly depending on your availability and the needs of the families we serve. There is no minimum requirement; you can volunteer for flights that fit your schedule.
Families Seeking Transportation Assistance
Q: How can I request transportation for my child’s medical appointment?
A: Families needing transportation should contact our Family Support team via contact form. Please be prepared to provide information about your child’s medical condition, appointment details (date, time, location), and your origin and destination.
Q: Is there a cost for the transportation services?
A: Thanks to the generosity of our volunteer pilots and donors, our transportation services are provided to families in need at no cost.
Q: What are the eligibility criteria for receiving transportation assistance?
A: Eligibility is typically based on the child’s need for specialized medical treatment that requires travel over a significant distance and the family’s financial or logistical challenges in arranging transportation. Each request is reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Q: How much notice do you need to arrange a flight?
A: While we strive to accommodate requests as quickly as possible, the more advance notice we receive, the better our chances of coordinating a suitable flight with a volunteer pilot. We encourage families to reach out as soon as transportation needs are identified.
Q: Who accompanies my child on the flight?
A: Typically, a parent or legal guardian accompanies the child on the flight. Our coordination team will confirm the details during the flight arrangement process.
Donors
Q: How can I donate to Helping Wings?
A: You can make a secure online donation through our Donation Page.
Q: Where does my donation go?
A: Your generous donations directly support the costs associated with arranging and facilitating flights for children in need, including potential fuel reimbursements for volunteer pilots, insurance, and administrative expenses necessary to coordinate our services.
Q: Is my donation tax-deductible?
A: Helping Wings is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and your donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. 1 You will receive a donation receipt for your records.
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“We look forward to welcoming you to our network of compassionate pilots!”
Helping Wings is dedicated to lifting the burden of distance for children who need life-saving medical care. We fund flights with the help of volunteer pilots to make sure no child misses essential treatment due to travel costs or distance. Together, we fly toward hope and healing.
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