In a world where distance can be the difference between life and loss, AeroAngel medical flights deliver more than transportation—they offer hope. What began as a compassionate vision from pilot and attorney Mark Pestal has grown into a nationwide network connecting critically ill children to the care they need, no matter how far.
Founded in 2010, AeroAngel is a life-saving nonprofit organization that provides free private jet travel for children who are too fragile to fly on commercial airlines. Their mission: to ensure no child is denied essential medical treatment due to transportation barriers.
How AeroAngel medical flights give critically ill children access to life-saving care across the U.S.
The inspiring connection between AppStrap® kneeboards and AeroAngel’s aviation mission
How Pilots HQ supports AeroAngel—and how your purchase can help too
A complete AppStrap® product comparison matrix to find the right kneeboard for your tablet.
Ways you can contribute to AeroAngel simply by using a coupon at checkout.
Table of contents
The Story Behind AeroAngel
Mark Pestal, who also founded the aviation gear brand AppStrap®, witnessed firsthand the logistical and emotional toll on families trying to get their sick children to top-tier medical facilities. The available solutions—commercial flights, driving thousands of miles, or waiting for medical transport approval—were often too slow or risky.
So, Mark did something bold: he launched AeroAngel with a powerful promise—children would never have to face these challenges alone.
Today, AeroAngel medical flights have carried over 500 children across the U.S., reaching premier pediatric hospitals when time and care are most critical.
What Makes AeroAngel Different?
Unlike typical air ambulance services, AeroAngel operates using private business jets and donated aircraft for non-emergency, yet medically essential flights. They focus on long-distance transport for children who are:
Too immunocompromised for commercial air travel
Physically unstable for long ground trips
In need of specialized care, hundreds or thousands of miles away
Their fleet includes a dedicated Learjet 55, allowing AeroAngel to move quickly and safely—even in weather or altitude conditions unsuitable for standard flights.
AppStrap®: Born from the Same Vision
The connection between AppStrap® iPad® kneeboards and AeroAngel runs deeper than just a founder. Both were created by pilots, for pilots, with a focus on function, trust, and giving back.
AppStrap’s kneeboards have become a staple in cockpits around the world. Whether you fly GA, corporate, or military, AppStrap® offers a streamlined solution for using tablets in-flight without bulky mounts or cases.
Why Pilots Choose AppStrap® Kneeboards:
Low-profile and lightweight—perfect for tight or aerobatic cockpits
Compatible with rugged tablet cases like OtterBox® and Gumdrop®
Allows quick repositioning, stowing, and sharing mid-flight
Includes tilt pads to improve cooling and screen visibility
Works in portrait or landscape mode for ultimate flexibility
In other words, AppStrap® helps keep your EFB (electronic flight bag) secure and accessible when it matters most.
A Coupon That Saves Lives
At Pilots HQ, we’re proud to be part of this impact. Through our partnership with AppStrap®, customers can directly support AeroAngel medical flights.
When you shop any AppStrap® product and use the code AEROANGEL at checkout, a portion of your purchase goes to AeroAngel. That donation helps fund another mission, another family, and another child’s chance to heal.
This isn’t just charity—it’s transformative aviation in action.
Choosing the Right AppStrap® for Your Tablet
Not sure which kneeboard is right for your setup? Here’s a quick breakdown of the current AppStrap® product line:
For Tablets With Rugged Cases:
AppStrap® 5(S) – Fits iPad Mini® in cases up to 0.75” thick
AppStrap® 5 – Fits iPad Air®, iPad Pro® 11”, 8–10” tablets
AppStrap® 6 – Fits iPad Pro® 13”, iPad Air®
For Tablets Without a Case:
Mini Gel Case Kneeboard – Designed for iPad Mini® 4, 5, 6
iPad Air® Gel Kneeboard – Built for Gen 1–2 iPad Air®
iPad® 2/3/4 Gel Kneeboard – A legacy product still trusted today
For DIY Users:
AppStrap® Conversion Kit – Add a Velcro® mount to any case or tablet
This matrix ensures every pilot finds the right fit—because secure gear leads to safer skies.
Behind the Scenes: How AeroAngel Missions Work
Each AeroAngel flight begins with a referral. Medical professionals, caseworkers, or families contact the organization, outlining the child’s needs. AeroAngel’s volunteer coordination team assesses eligibility and begins logistical planning.
Flights are then dispatched using their own Learjet or through partner pilots and aircraft. Every detail is coordinated with compassionate precision, including:
Health and safety protocols for the child and guardian
Ground transportation and hospital coordination
Backup aircraft for high-risk travel windows
The result? A seamless experience for families at one of the most difficult times in their lives
Why It Matters
Every time AeroAngel flies, they give families something truly priceless: peace of mind. They remove barriers, ease burdens, and bring healing within reach.
How You Can Help (Beyond the Cart)
You don’t need to be a pilot to support AeroAngel medical flights. Here’s how you can make a difference:
Use Code AEROANGEL: Every AppStrap® sale using this code contributes to a flight
Share the Mission: Tell others about AeroAngel’s work
Fly AppStrap®: You get pro gear, they get hope in the air
What is AeroAngel?
AeroAngel is a nonprofit organization that provides free private jet flights for critically ill children who cannot safely travel on commercial airlines.
Who is eligible for AeroAngel medical flights?
Children with serious medical conditions who need long-distance transportation to access specialized treatment and are unable to travel commercially may qualify.
What makes AeroAngel different from other medical flight services?
Unlike typical air ambulance services, AeroAngel provides non-emergency but essential flights using turbine aircraft, allowing children to reach care safely and comfortably across the country.
Are donations tax-deductible?
Yes, AeroAngel is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and direct donations to the organization are typically tax-deductible.
How can I support AeroAngel through Pilots HQ?
Use the coupon code AEROANGEL at checkout when purchasing any product on PilotsHQ.com—not just AppStrap® gear. Pilots HQ will donate a portion of your order to AeroAngel to help fund life-saving medical flights for critically ill children.
Final Thoughts: Wings of Hope, Delivered by You
Pilots HQ believes that gear should serve a purpose—and that brands should serve a mission. That’s why every AppStrap® purchase is more than just a cockpit upgrade. It’s a small part in a much bigger flight plan.
With your help, AeroAngel medical flights will continue giving children the access they deserve, one mission at a time.
Carl Helka
Carl Helka is the CEO of Pilots HQ, where he leads with a passion for delivering aviation gear that pilots can truly depend on. With a deep respect for both the mission and mechanics of flight, Carl is dedicated to supporting innovations like AppStrap® and causes like AeroAngel—where the aviation community uplifts those who need it most.
