We will periodically publish our bulletin, Flight Following, on our website and also send it directly via email in order to make sending and receiving it as convenient as possible for everyone.
This journal is intended for volunteer pilots, group leaders, other volunteers, professional staff, and all those interested in the incredible world of public benefit flying! Feel free to pass it along to others. We hope it provides useful information making it easier for those who use aviation in public service do a better and more enjoyable job of flying to help others!
We will also post news and event information from the world of charitable aviation on our blog.
Aero Crew News Highlights Volunteer Flying and the Air Care Alliance
In “Pilots with a Purpose: How to Make a Difference Using Your Talents, Aviation Skills & Compassion,” Aero Crew News explores the inspiring world of volunteer and public-benefit flying, where pilots use their aircraft, experience, and generosity to change lives across the country. Discover how pilots are using their passion for flying to make a […]
Air Care Alliance Welcomes Shakeel Mozaffar as New Director
Volunteer Pilot Strengthens Board with Business, Aviation & Philanthropy Acumen The Air Care Alliance (ACA), a nonprofit public service organization representing a nationwide network of volunteer pilot groups that deliver impactful and inspiring service through aviation, is pleased to announce the appointment of Shakeel Mozaffar to its Board of Directors. “Our Board of Directors is […]
Four Unique Ways to Give Back with Aviation in 2026
If you already volunteer as a pilot, you know the difference charitable aviation makes—not just for those you serve, but for your own sense of purpose. As the new year gets underway, several aviation nonprofits are expanding their reach and need skilled volunteer pilots ready to fly with intention. Here are four impactful ways you […]
A Flight to Freedom: One Survivor’s Story
The following article was contributed by Freedom Aviation Network, a valued member of the Air Care Alliance. When the call came in from Reflection Ministries of Texas earlier this year, it was more than just a flight request. It was a plea for hope. A survivor of human trafficking—still fragile, still finding her footing—needed transportation […]
MOSAIC and Volunteer Flying
Curious about how the new MOSAIC regulations might impact your volunteer pilot organization? Here’s what you need to know. The FAA’s MOSAIC (Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certificates) rule is shaking up the aviation world by expanding opportunities for Sport Pilots. These pilots can now fly a broader range of aircraft, requiring less training than a […]
Air Care Alliance Announces Mark Hanson as New President
The Air Care Alliance (ACA) is proud to announce that Mark Hanson has been selected as the organization’s new President, following the passing of longtime leader Jim Hesseman earlier this year. Reflecting on this leadership transition, Hanson shared, “Jim was both a mentor and a friend. I learned so much from him about the heart of […]
Philanthropic Flying: Giving Back with General Aviation
FAA Safety Briefing Magazine recently featured volunteer flying in an excellent article by Nicole Hartman. The article highlights how general aviation pilots can use their skills to serve communities while explaining the safety, legal, and regulatory considerations involved. It’s both an inspiring call to give back through flying and a practical guide to doing it […]
Remembering ACA President Jim Hesseman
ACA Board Member and former Angel Flight West Executive Director Josh Olson shares a heartfelt remembrance of ACA President Jim Hesseman—reflecting on his leadership, dedication, and the lasting impact he made on the charitable aviation community. Jim passed away on June 24, 2025. Written by Josh Olson It’s difficult to find the right words to […]
Award Recipients Recognized for Dedication and Contributions to Public Benefit Flying
The Air Care Alliance (ACA) and The National Aeronautic Association (NAA) have unveiled the highly anticipated recipients of their esteemed Public Benefit Flying Awards. These awards honor contributions of individual volunteers and volunteer organizations who leverage aviation for humanitarian causes. “Combining a love of flying and selfless devotion to humankind, pilots and other volunteers involved […]
Thunder Run 2025 – Aviation and Community in Action
This year’s annual Thunder Run exercise brought an extraordinary display of collaboration, preparedness, and community spirit to Bellingham International Airport (BLI). The event, designed to test and improve the use of general aviation in emergency scenarios, focused on food collection and aerial distribution to support food banks across Washington State and the West Coast. The […]