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Delta offering medical volunteers free flights to help out in other impacted regions

Posted at 4:49 PM, Mar 28, 2020
and last updated 2020-03-28 16:52:41-04

(WXYZ) — Delta is supporting medical professionals on the front lines of the COVID-19 crisis by offering free flights to certain regions of the U.S. that have been significantly impacted.

Eligible medical volunteers will be able to book round-trip Delta flights free of charge to Georgia, Louisiana and Michigan, where they will work together with the state and local government offices to be deployed to hospitals in areas hardest hit by the virus.

Delta will also look at the possibility of expanding this program to other regions in need, including California, New York, and Washington.

“We are witnessing the heroic efforts of our medical professionals around the world as they combat COVID-19, and we have deep gratitude for their selfless sacrifice,” said Bill Lentsch, Delta’s Chief Customer Experience Officer. “Air travel plays a significant role in making connections in both good and challenging times, and our hope is that offering free travel gives more of these professionals the ability to help in critical areas of the U.S.”

Medical volunteers interested in this program should contact the state offices below to determine their eligibility based on each state’s specific needs.

Eligibility and volunteer program details are being managed by the states and will be communicated to participants once approved by the states.

“Our health care professionals are on the front lines every day helping people fight COVID-19, and they deserve all of our support during this crisis,” said Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “Delta’s action will help our hospitals and health care providers address the influx of COVID-19 patients and help us all bend the curve and slow the spread of this virus. Additionally, I will continue to work to ensure more medical supplies and personal protective equipment reaches our health care professionals so they can protect themselves and their loved ones.”

Once eligible candidates are identified, Delta will work with the state and local government offices to make flight reservations.

The flights will be offered during the month of April to start and can be booked up to three days in advance of travel.