USAA-VFG
Support Our Mission
History In Service
About the Group

The Mission Comes First.

Volunteer Flying Group exists because aviation history shouldn’t sit behind museum ropes. It should continue serving people.

Our Story

The Volunteer Flying Group was founded on a simple, powerful belief: historic aircraft are meant to fly. Rather than displaying aviation history statically, VFG operates a fully restored Douglas DC-3 (C-47) to deliver humanitarian aid, support veteran appreciation, and inspire students across America.

By keeping this legendary aircraft active, we ensure that its legacy remains relevant. It is a living, breathing demonstration of historical engineering that does not just represent the past—it helps build a better tomorrow.

"I realize no one is going to give us money to go 'play around' in aviation doing the things where I thrive. The one thing I have learned while owning my own company since I was 21 years old is place the client first. If you take care of the clients’ needs, you will be fine. Our entire group operates with that service-first philosophy."— Andy Downs, Founder & "The Air Boss"

Our Mission

To preserve historic aviation by operating legendary aircraft in service of disaster relief, humanitarian outreach, aviation education, and veteran engagement.


Our Vision

To become America’s most respected flying historic humanitarian aviation organization, connecting millions with living history.

Foundational Pillars

Core Values

The principles that guide our flight crew, mechanics, and volunteers on every mission.

Safety

Our highest operational priority. We perform rigorous maintenance checks and pilot training to ensure zero-risk operations.

Service

Putting communities and victims first. Every flight has a purpose and serves individuals in need.

Integrity

Honesty and transparency in all donor relations, sponsor partnerships, and disaster deployments.

Stewardship

Preserving irreplaceable World War II aviation heritage for future generations.

Education

Inspiring kids and students with hands-on tarmac tours and engineering history lessons.

Teamwork

Uniting pilots, mechanics, logistics coordinators, and sponsor volunteers under one mission.

Respect

Honoring our nation's military veterans and their families through dedicated events.

Excellence

Striving for absolute operational precision, from flight logs to media production.