Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser recently highlighted on social media a Louisiana nonprofit that is doing life changing work–Pilots for Patients.

Pilots for Patients (PFP), based in Monroe, was founded in January 2008 by pilot Philip Thomas and others. The organization connects volunteer pilots with patients who need free air travel to medical facilities not available locally. Their goal is to eliminate the burden of travel allowing the patient to concentrate on getting well.

Volunteer pilots cover all operating costs—aircraft, fuel, insurance—without compensation. Patients pay nothing, only needing a doctor’s referral to demonstrate medical necessity.

Local pilot Florence Bethard donates her time and Cirrus plane to fly patients to their medical appointments.  

Bethard began flying for PFP in 2011 and has completed over 250 flights.

The patient must be able to board and disembark from the aircraft on his own, and their doctor must certify that air travel will not interfere with the patient’s condition. A family member or caregiver may accompany the patient. Pilots for Patients may also arrange ground transportation from the airport to the medical facility.

PFP covers all of Louisiana, parts of Mississippi, Arkansas and Texas. Over 7,000 flights have been flown since PFP was created. The group averages 20–30 flights per week.

Pilots for Patients exemplifies how everyday people—armed with little more than a pilot’s license, an airplane, and a willingness to serve—can transform medical access for those in need. Their story is one of quiet heroism: volunteers sharing burdens, extending hope, and making the impossible possible—flight by flight.

If you or a loved one needs medical care not available in your local area, go to pilotsforpatients.org or call (318) 322-5112.