An Angel Flight pilot is a volunteer aviator who uses their own aircraft, fuel, and time to provide free air transportation for patients in need of medical treatment. These pilots are part of a non-profit network (like Angel Flight West or Angel Flight Soars) that coordinates "missions" for individuals who are "financially distressed" or unable to use public transportation due to their medical condition (e.g., being immunocompromised). In 2026, to become an Angel Flight pilot, you typically need a Private Pilot License with an Instrument Rating, a current medical certificate, and a minimum of 250 to 500 hours of "Pilot in Command" (PIC) time, depending on the specific regional chapter's insurance requirements. These pilots do not receive any payment; in fact, they pay for the entirety of the flight's operating costs themselves. It is considered one of the most prestigious forms of "public benefit flying," providing a critical bridge for patients traveling to specialized centers like the Mayo Clinic or St. Jude for life-saving care.