BLUE BELL, PA – May 20, 2025 – When Westmoreland County resident John Greco takes to the skies, he’s not just flying for the thrill—he’s flying for a cause. As a volunteer pilot for Angel Flight East (AFE), Greco donates his time, aircraft, and fuel to transport patients to life-saving medical care far from home, all at no cost to the patient. Now, Angel Flight East is calling on residents across Western Pennsylvania to spread the word: help is just a flight away.

Angel Flight East provides free air transportation for patients who must travel long distances for medical treatment. What many people don’t realize is that AFE also offers “compassion flights”—free flights for caregivers and family members to join patients during treatment, or to swap out with another caregiver. This unique service offers vital emotional support and relief for families going through some of their most difficult moments.

“For me, it’s one of the most important things I do in life besides my family and business,” said Greco, who has been flying for AFE since 2015. “I love to fly, and I love to help people. Angel Flight gives me the opportunity to do both.”

One of Greco’s most memorable missions was flying a Western Pennsylvania couple, Randy and Gina R., home from North Carolina in time for Thanksgiving dinner. Gina, who had advanced brain cancer, simply wanted to spend the holiday at home. “I rearranged all my plans that day,” Greco recalled. “That flight has stayed with me ever since.”

Greco’s generosity is matched only by his deep connection to the people he meets. He still keeps in touch with past passengers like George T., who calls him every holiday just to say thank you. “He always says, ‘I wouldn’t be here without you,’” said Greco. “That kind of impact is hard to put into words.”

A third-generation owner of a family-run scrap metal business and restaurant entrepreneur, Greco somehow finds time to fly missions for Angel Flight East and other public benefit flying organizations. But it’s the AFE flights that he says are the most rewarding. “It’s so fulfilling to meet patients and help them get where they need to go,” he said. “It’s hard to describe—but it means everything.”

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Angel Flight East works closely with local hospitals, social workers, and other pilot organizations to ensure patients and caregivers can access the care and support they need. The organization has over 400 volunteer pilots and coordinates approximately 1,000 flights annually across 14 Northeastern states.

“People in Western Pennsylvania might not know that these services are available to them,” said Ellen Williams, executive director at AFE. “Whether you’re a patient in need, a caregiver looking for support, or a pilot looking to make a difference, Angel Flight East is here for you.”

To learn more about requesting a flight, donating, or becoming a volunteer pilot, visit www.angelflighteast.org or call 215-358-1900.

About Angel Flight East

Angel Flight East is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free air transportation to patients in need of distant medical care. Supported by a network of over 400 volunteer pilots, AFE also delivers emergency supplies to disaster-stricken areas and reunites families during critical times. Through its compassionate services, Angel Flight East ensures that those facing medical and personal crises receive the support they need swiftly and safely.