Reading Aero Club members are proud to represent the diverse population of which Reading and the surrounding communities are comprised. Although the club is based at the Reading Regional Airport in central Berks County, our members hail from four other Pa. counties. Although most of our members are men, the women pilots in our club range from grandmothers to air traffic controllers and holding certificates ranging from student pilot through commercial pilot, and hold key positions in the club. Our members combine their love of flying with the opportunity to serve others by volunteering their time with many philanthropic endeavors listed below.
Angel Flight EastAngel Flight East is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization comprised of pilot volunteers, ground volunteers and a small staff dedicated to serving the community by facilitating free air transportation for seriously ill patients who need to get to treatment far from home. Their pilots fly them to the medical facilities needed for their evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of their medical conditions free of charge.
Veterans Airlift CommandThe Veterans Airlift Command provides free air transportation to wounded warriors, veterans and their families for medical and other compassionate purposes through a national network of volunteer aircraft owners and pilots.
Animal Rescue FlightsAnimal Rescue Flights (ARF) promotes, plans, and performs the transportation of animals from overcrowded shelters where they face certain death to other parts of the country where qualified families are waiting to adopt them. Due to the complexity and distances needing to be covered, Animal Rescue Flights works with various pilot organizations that specialize in these types of flights to find the most efficient and timely method of transporting the endangered animals. Their goal is to find the resources to accomplish these flights and to plan and coordinate each project with those involved.
World War II WeekendWorld War II Weekend is produced by the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum (an IRS recognized 501 ( c ) ( 3 ) charitable organization). WWII Weekend features shows, plane tours, entertainment, food, and more! Our members provide transportation between the West Ramp and the Air Museum, as well as sell beverages to the thirsty crowd.
Christmas in the AirChristmas in the Air is a non- profit event that allows children who have never flown before to fly in a small aircraft. Children between the ages of 8 and 17 have a chance to see their homes from the sky. The 15 – 30 minute flight takes off from the Reading Airport, flies over the Blue Marsh Lake, circles around the Pagoda, and then returns to the airport. Santa, Mrs. Claus and their Elves fly in from the North Pole to greet all the children. There are many other games and activities for the younger children in Santa’s Workshop to keep them busy, plus Breakfast with Santa in Klingers Restaurant. Reading Aero club members are pilots for Christmas in the Air as well as volunteer their time in the terminal with games and activities.