Angel Flight Pilot Wins Award for 2nd Year Running

World Record Holder Bob Briggs made a name for himself over his long and impressive aviation career, obtaining 109 type ratings, joining the Flying Tigers, FedEx, and the Navy Reserve.

Recently, Briggs once again won Tennessee Pilot of the Year for the second consecutive time, no small feat according to Angel Flight Mid-Atlantic. His service with the organization has led to dozens of flights over recent years, transporting seriously ill patients at no charge to and from medical treatment centers around the United States. His assistance with the volunteer program has earned him the honor of being Angel Flight Mid-Atlantic's Pilot of the Year for the second time running. 

Tamarack Aero, creator and developer of their proprietary Active Winglet tech, have proudly announced their association with his mercy missions. Briggs speaks highly of their product, saying that it allows him to save time and money by expediting the climb to more efficient cruising altitudes. "This aircraft wouldn’t go straight to altitude without the Active Winglets. They provide a smoother ride for patients and save money by going farther on fuel. I can provide more stable and safe rides with lower approach speeds and I am able to legally take off in high/hot conditions – I’d be grounded without the Active Winglets. I’m so honored to be able to help in this way,” said Bob. 

The economic and performance benefits are not the only benefit. The turbulence mitigation of Active Winglets also helps maintain a comfortable, safe journey for those delicate patients who require careful handling. One passenger from one of his many volunteer missions attended the award presentation and described her experience as a cancer patient. "I went into remission in January this year. Before that they didn’t know how long I would last. I was in stage four, they said I can’t save you and I don’t know what we could do for you. This cancer is going to kill you. I was ready to give up. I couldn’t take commercial flights and driving was awful," said Frances Marston. "If it wasn’t for Bob and Julia, Angel Flight Mid-Atlantic and MD Anderson (in Houston) we wouldn’t be here today.”

FMI: www.tamarackaero.com, www.AngelFlightMidAtlantic.org