LifeLine Pilots bring hope to those in need

DANVILLE, Ill. (WAND) - Originally founded in Champaign, LifeLine Pilots has been flying people all around the Midwest for over four decades. Now operating out of Peoria, they're averaging around 80 flights a month.

People seeking medical attention can avoid traffic by using services from LifeLine Pilots. Over 300 pilots volunteer their plane, fuel, and time. With their help, a seven hour drive can be turned into a half hour flight, free of charge.

"Although we are growing pretty quickly, last year we flew almost 650 flights but we actually have a goal by 2027 to be flying 1,500 flights a year," said Executive Director, Lindsey Kerr.

Pilot Jeff Williams keeps his plane at the Vermilion Regional Airport. Although he's only been with the organization since the beginning of the year, it's made a huge impact on his flying.

"I found that as I've gotten more hours in the plane, it's better if I have some purpose for a flight instead of just going to fly around and this really puts a good purpose behind it," said Williams.

The organization also serves Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee, and Wisconsin.

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