Freedom Aviation Network – FAQs
Language Note
At Freedom Aviation Network (FAN), we refer to individuals we serve as VIPs (Very Important Persons) or clients. We avoid the term “survivor” in day-to-day communication to emphasize dignity, privacy, and respect.
- VIP is used when speaking with pilots, partners, and in most FAN communications.
- Client may be used in agency or case management contexts.
For clarity, throughout this document, “VIP” or “client” is used in place of “survivor.”
General FAQs
When did FAN begin?
FAN was incorporated on September 6, 2022.
How was FAN started?
The idea for FAN grew out of a clear gap in services: VIPs often lacked safe, reliable transportation. Inspired by the work of other public-benefit aviation groups, a group of volunteer pilots launched FAN to meet this need. Together, they built a network of volunteer pilots, donors, and nonprofit partners dedicated to helping VIPs and their advocates reach safety and support.
Why is FAN necessary?
Transportation is one of the top barriers for VIPs. Over 50% of clients report that lack of safe, reliable transportation kept them from leaving their situation. FAN helps remove that barrier so VIPs can access safe housing, reunite with family, attend court, or connect with supportive services.
What is human trafficking?
Human trafficking is the use of force, fraud, or coercion to exploit someone for labor or sex. It happens in every community and can affect people of any age, race, gender, or nationality. Traffickers often use violence, manipulation, false job offers, or relationships to exploit people.
Learn more at the DHS Blue Campaign: https://www.dhs.gov/blue-campaign/what-human-trafficking
Why is transportation a barrier?
- Many VIPs have no ID, making it impossible to book standard travel.
- Traffickers often monitor bus and train stations.
- Public transit can be unsafe, triggering, or retraumatizing.
- The cost of tickets are often out of reach for VIPs and small agencies.
Why air transportation?
- Choice: VIPs decide with their advocate what method feels safest.
- Private flights: Volunteer pilots donate their time and aircraft to provide confidential, flexible travel.
- Charter/airline tickets: Used when private flights aren’t feasible (long distances, group travel, special needs).
- Advocate support: VIPs never travel without an advocate and support system in place.
Pilot FAQs
What are the requirements to be a FAN pilot?
- Minimum 250 hours PIC (Pilot in Command).
- Current FAA medical certificate or BasicMed compliance.
- Verification of pilot certificate, logbook, and government-issued ID.
- Signed Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA).
- Full compliance with FAA rules and regulations.
Do I need a medical certificate, or can I fly under BasicMed?
Yes. You may fly for FAN under BasicMed if you meet the requirements. A current FAA medical certificate (any class) or BasicMed compliance is acceptable.
Do I need to own my own aircraft?
No. You may use a rented aircraft or one you have authorized access to. However, you are responsible for covering all operating costs (fuel, rental fees, etc.).
Why can’t FAN reimburse pilots for expenses?
FAA regulations prohibit private pilots from receiving compensation or reimbursement for flying (see 14 CFR § 61.113(a)). If FAN paid you or covered your expenses, it would be considered compensation. Instead, pilots volunteer their time and cover costs, which may qualify as a tax-deductible donation since FAN is a registered 501(c)(3)nonprofit.
Am I responsible for caring for the VIP/client during the flight?
No. Pilots are only responsible for flying the aircraft safely and following FAA regulations. The VIP/client is always accompanied by an advocate provided by the partner agency. The advocate is trained in trauma-informed care and is responsible for supporting the client before, during, and after the flight.
Will traffickers try to find me or follow me at the airport?
This is a common concern, but pilots are not personally at risk. A trafficker is very unlikely to know or connect a pilot to a VIP/client. If there is any risk, the partner agency involves law enforcement and ensures safety planning is in place. Your responsibility is flight safety — security risks are managed by the agency and advocate.
How far is a typical flight?
Most FAN missions are within a 250 nautical mile radius. Occasionally, longer trips may be arranged using multiple pilots, charter donations, or commercial tickets.
How do advocates return home after a flight?
Advocates usually return via a FAN-arranged return flight with another volunteer pilot or on a commercial airline ticket purchased by the agency.
How much notice will I receive before a flight?
We try to provide at least a 3 day notice for missions. Sometimes more notice is possible (such as for home visits or court appointments). In urgent cases, flights may be requested with as little as 1 days notice.
What information is included in a flight request?
Each request includes passenger weight and the origin and destination cities.
Who chooses the airports?
The pilot selects the departure and arrival airports based on safety, availability, and convenience. Once chosen, the pilot relays this to FAN’s flight coordinator.
How is communication handled before the flight?
The flight coordinator ensures everyone is connected. The day before a mission, a group text is sent to the pilot, advocate, and coordinator so details and updates can be communicated easily.
Can I post about flights on social media?
Yes. We encourage our volunteers to share their experiences, but protecting the privacy and safety of our VIPs is our highest priority.
If your photos include a VIP, please email them to fancommsdirector@icloud.com before posting. We will review the images, obscure the VIP's identity as needed, as well as tail numbers, and return approved versions for you to share.
Photos that do not include a VIP or tail number may be posted without prior approval.
Are there benefits to using Signature Aviation FBOs?
Yes. As FAN’s corporate sponsor, Signature Aviation provides:
- Fuel discounts
- Waived landing fees
- Additional support, can be requested such as a catered meal or a private waiting area for VIPs. It is up to the individual locations to determine what they can provide.
Do FAN flights use a compassion call sign?
No. FAN flights do not use a special call sign. Pilots operate under their aircraft’s regular tail number and comply with all FAA procedures.
Can I fly with a friend (buddy pilot)?
Yes. A second pilot or friend may ride along, but they must sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) before the flight to protect the privacy and safety of the VIP/client.
Guidance for Interacting with VIPs
Pilots are not expected to provide direct care — that is the role of the advocate. Your role is to create a calm, safe environment and ensure the flight runs smoothly.
• Create a safe space: Keep conversation neutral unless initiated by the VIP. Maintain a calm, reassuring tone. Example: Instead of saying “We’re delayed” abruptly, say, “We’ll wait here a few minutes so the weather clears — you’re safe with us.”
• Be trauma-informed: VIPs may appear anxious or withdrawn. Avoid unnecessary touching or over-familiarity. If they don’t make eye contact or choose not to speak, that’s okay. Respect their space.
• Don’t push for details: Never ask about their trafficking experience. If they share something personal, respond with compassion but do not probe further. Example: If a VIP says, “It’s been a hard week,” a good response is, “I’m glad we can help you get where you need to go.”
• Use the advocate as the point of contact: Direct safety briefings and key information to the advocate. The advocate will relay what’s necessary in a trauma-informed way.
• Support autonomy: Offer small, empowering choices when possible. Example: “Would you like the window open or closed?”
Partner Agency FAQs
Who can request a FAN flight?
Only partner agencies with a signed MOU may submit requests.
What categories of flights qualify?
Flights must fall into approved categories such as: leaving a trafficking situation, shelter relocation, family reunification, court appointment, home visit, reintegration, or advocate site visit.
What documentation is required?
A signed MOU and passenger waiver are required for all flights.
What are the agency’s responsibilities for risk mitigation?
The partner agency is responsible for safety planning, notifying law enforcement if needed, and ensuring ground transportation to and from the airport.
How far in advance should requests be made?
At least 3 days in advance when possible. Urgent requests may be accommodated sooner depending on availability.
How are advocates expected to support VIPs during travel?
Advocates provide trauma-informed support, communicate directly with the VIP, and serve as the point of contact for the pilot.
Have a question that’s not covered here? Contact us at info@freedomaviationnetwork.org