In 1999, Hope Air took flight in a whole new way. To reach communities beyond commercial airline routes, we launched the Volunteer Pilot Program, an innovative expansion of our mission to ensure distance is never a barrier to medical care.

Founded through the vision and generosity of Karen Adams and the Buttonville Flying Club, with leadership from Billy Lowe, the program quickly became an important part of how Hope Air supports patients in more remote communities.

Over the years, the Volunteer Pilot Program has helped transport thousands of Canadians to vital medical appointments, often offering a patient’s first experience on a small aircraft and opening new pathways to care.

As we reflect on 40 years of Hope Air, the Volunteer Pilot Program stands as one of the many ways our services have evolved to meet patients where they are, and to help them reach the care they need.