FAQs

How is the Honor Flight funded?

Honor Flight Bluegrass does not utilize the services of professional solicitors. Our funding comes from generous individuals, corporations, and organizations that recognize the great accomplishments and sacrifices of our honored Veterans. We are an all-volunteer organization; 97.5% of the proceeds go directly to the mission!

What are the requirements to go as a Veteran with Honor Flight Bluegrass?

Veterans are selected on a “first-come, first-served” basis as relegated by their war service date and application date, regardless of location of duty. The order of eligible Veterans are WWII, Korean War, and Vietnam War. Priority is given to those who are terminally ill, regardless of war or age.

Eligible Veterans:

  • WORLD WAR II: All campaigns from December 7, 1941 to March 2, 1946.
  • AMERICAN MERCHANT MARINES: In oceangoing service during the period of armed conflict from December 7, 1941 to August 15, 1945.
  • KOREAN WAR: Service from June 27, 1950 to July 27, 1954.
  • VIETNAM WAR: Service from February 28, 1961 to May 7, 1975. Please note, we have a lengthy waitlist for our Vietnam Veterans. Once you apply, feel free to contact us to find out your status in line. We will put you on a flight as soon as possible.
  • OTHER: Service between WWII and the Korean War (1946-1950) or between the Korean War and the Vietnam War (1954-1961).
How does a Veteran apply?

Veteran and Guardian applications can be found on this website at these links:
Veteran Application
Guardian Application

When will I be able to go on a flight after I submit my application?

WWII, Korea, and terminally ill Veterans are automatically assigned to the next Honor Flight. Vietnam Veterans travel in order of application date. Please note, we have a lengthy waitlist for our Vietnam Veterans. Feel free to contact us to find out your status in line. We will put you on a flight as soon as possible.

What airport does Honor Flight Bluegrass fly out of for their missions?

Louisville International Airport (SDF), Louisville, KY

What memorials will we see on flight day?

On a typical flight mission, our tour of honor includes the WWll Memorial, Korea War Memorial, Vietnam War Memorial, FDR Memorial, Marine Corps Memorial, and the Air Force Memorial. We also visit Arlington National Cemetery to witness the Changing of the Guard Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Our itinerary is subject to change.

What do I need to bring with me on my Honor Flight?

You will need to bring your ID card (valid driver’s license, REAL ID, or Military ID). You will also need to bring a two-day supply of any medications you are currently taking. We will provide all Veterans and Guardians with breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and water throughout the day. We make every effort to accommodate our travelers’ special dietary needs as well. Depending on the weather, you might also want to bring a windbreaker or jacket. We provide ponchos in the event of inclement weather.

What do I wear the day of the flight?

As a veteran, you will receive a shirt and a lanyard from us that we ask you to wear during flight day. Guardians are also given shirts that they also must wear as well. This serves to identify each traveler as being a part of Honor Flight Bluegrass.

Will health issues prevent a Veteran from flying?

On our application we ask for information about our Veterans' health, so we have insight into any medical challenges that may be a concern. We may ask for a note from a Veteran's doctor confirming their ability to safely fly. Our medical team will also conduct interviews with each Veteran, so we have a good understanding of any concerns and can make a final determination. We make every effort to accommodate any Veteran with a doctor's clearance to make the trip.

Who can be my Guardian?

A Guardian can be a family member, friend, or a volunteer. Guardians must be 18 – 70 years old on flight day and be able to perform the listed duties below. A mandatory Guardian training course must completed. Please note, spouses/significant others CANNOT serve as Guardians.

Guardians must be able to perform the following tasks:

  • Physically take care of the Veteran the entire day, which could exceed 15-18 hours
  • Assist unloading and loading veterans from the aircraft and bus, as needed
  • Assist unloading and loading wheelchairs from the bus at each stop, as needed
  • Assist unloading and loading water coolers to dispense water to other Guardians and Veterans, as needed
What is the Guardian payment and what does it include?

Our mission is to fly WWII, Korean War, and Vietnam War Veterans at no expense to them. Guardians contribute a tax-deductible donation of $600.00 to offset the costs of their airfare, bus transport, liability insurance, and other expenses.

Will there be wheelchairs available for the Veterans on the flight?

Honor Flight Bluegrass will provide wheelchairs for any Veteran that needs one. Please note, all wheelchairs are provided by Honor Flight Bluegrass; we cannot accommodate personal wheelchairs or walkers.

What if a Veteran needs oxygen?

Please note that oxygen bottles are strictly forbidden to be carried aboard aircraft. A Veteran must bring their own battery-powered portable oxygen concentrator for the duration of the trip.

How can I find out information on upcoming flights and the Welcome Home?

Please check our website and social media platforms for flight updates. We highly encourage the general public to attend the Welcome Home and cheer on our returning Veterans.

Where can I find out about Mail Call for upcoming flights?

Please follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates as the flight day gets closer.

How can I volunteer?

We have numerous volunteer opportunities available. Please visit our volunteer page for more info and a link to the application.

How can I make a donation to Honor Flight Bluegrass?

Please note, Honor Flight Bluegrass will acknowledge the donation for your tax purposes at your request. We also have sponsorship opportunities for our flights. Please go to our sponsorship page on our website to learn more.

Donations can be made by credit card on our website or mail checks to:
Honor Flight Bluegrass
P.O. Box 991364
Louisville, KY 40269-1364