The Patient AirLift Services’ network of volunteer pilots provide free medical flights and air transportation services, receiving no compensation, using their own or rented aircraft. No fees of any kind are charged for these services.
Generally, the individuals who turn to PALS for air transportation are receiving diagnosis, medical treatment or follow-up for acute or chronic healthcare conditions and cannot afford commercial or charter flights.
To qualify for a PALS flight, you must:
Have financial or compelling need.
Our volunteer pilots donate their time, aircraft, and expenses at great cost. Please exhaust all other transport possibilities first.
Provide notice at least 5 business days prior to desired flight date. PALS occasionally arranges a flight on short notice, but only in special circumstances.
Be medically stable to travel. Your physician or social worker must complete a Medical Release Form.
Be mobile. You must be able to sit upright in a standard aircraft seat, wear a standard seatbelt and get in and out of a plane with limited assistance.
Children over the age of two must be restrained in a DOT-approved aircraft seat or child restraint system.
Be able to fly in a small aircraft. PALS pilots fly non-pressurized general aviation aircraft with limited seating and cargo space. Our planes cannot accommodate a stretcher and are not air ambulances.
Be prepared for flight delays or cancellation. Ensure you can reschedule a medical appointment, or have alternate transportation available, in case of flight cancellation due to weather, pilot need or other circumstances.
Be responsible for your own medications.
Not have a communicable disease.
Provide supplemental oxygen and medical assistance, if required. Must be approved by the Department of Transportation.