FAQ's

🇺🇸 Honor Flight Tri-State – FAQ

Everything veterans and guardians need to know

❓ Is it really FREE? What's the catch?

A: There’s no catch. The trip is 100% free for veterans. It’s our way of saying thank you for your service and sacrifice. All costs are covered by donations — not by the government or veterans.

💵 How much does it cost? Should I bring money?

A: The trip costs veterans nothing. We raise the full $700 per person. Bring money only if you’d like to buy souvenirs.

💰 Who pays for it?

A: Honor Flight Tri-State is funded entirely by donations — no government money, no paid staff. We’re a volunteer-run nonprofit supported by individuals, families, companies, organizations, and memorial gifts.

🤝 How do I donate?

A: Anyone can donate! All contributions are tax-deductible under our 501(c)(3) status. Use the “Donate Now” button on our home page.

🎖️ Who qualifies?

A: Veterans aged 65 or older, whether they served overseas or stateside, are eligible. If you served in the U.S. military — you qualify.
We prioritize the oldest veterans first, so apply early via the “Veterans Initial Application” on our site.

🧭 “I’m not a hero... I don’t deserve this.”

A: We hear this often. But to us — and to your country — you ARE a hero. This flight honors all who served, especially those who never came home. You are part of that legacy.

During the trip, we honor the fallen at memorials for WWII, Korea, and Vietnam, and witness the Changing of the Guard at Arlington.

❤️ What if I have health issues?

A: Many of our veterans use wheelchairs — and we provide them. The trip is physically demanding (18+ hours, 14+ bus stops, uneven terrain), so please check with your doctor.

We can’t accommodate scooters or walkers, but we do offer a "Flightless Honor Flight" experience for veterans who can’t travel.

✈️ What’s the schedule like?

We fly from CVG to Washington, D.C.
All travel (airfare, meals, buses, guides) is included.
The day is long but meaningful — with visits to memorials, ceremonies, and plenty of support along the way.

📋 How are veterans selected?

A: Veterans apply online. Once approved, you're placed on a waiting list based on age — the oldest fly first.
When it’s your turn, you’ll receive an email invitation and instructions for Veteran Check-In.

🧍‍♂️ How do guardians get selected?

A: Guardians must be:

Age 18–70
In good health
Able to push a wheelchair and assist a veteran all day
Of sound mind and body

Two guardian options:

Family Guardians: Apply at the same time as your veteran.
Solo Guardians: Apply independently — we’ll match you with a veteran.

Note: Guardians pay a $700 fee (covers airfare, meals, T-shirt, etc.) and must attend a training session one week before the flight.

Final guardian selection is made by the Program Director based on:

Veteran needs
Guardian experience
Medical training or active duty service

🧓 Can my spouse go with me?

A: No, unless your spouse is also a U.S. military veteran. This is a nationwide policy of the Honor Flight Network.

👪 Can my son, daughter, or grandchild go?

A: Yes, they can apply as a guardian and will be considered based on the same guardian criteria and availability.

💸 What does the guardian fee include?

A: The $700 guardian fee (2025 rate) includes:

Charter airfare
All meals and drinks
Tour bus and guide
Official Honor Flight T-shirt
(Fee subject to change in future years)

🗺️ What if my state doesn’t have a program?

A: Visit HonorFlight.org to find a hub near you.
Or, if you can get to CVG Airport (Cincinnati) the day before the flight, you’re welcome to join Honor Flight

Tri-State.

🏛️ Who runs Honor Flight Tri-State?

A: We are part of the Honor Flight Network, a national nonprofit that supports local hubs.
Honor Flight Tri-State is based in Cincinnati, Ohio, and serves veterans from the Tri-State area.
We’re 100% volunteer-run.

🎉 When and where is the Welcome Home celebration?

Where: CVG Airport (Cincinnati)

When: 9:05 PM on the night of the fligh

What to do:
- Park in the short-term or long-term lot
- Enter the terminal and head right to the rotunda (big murals)
- Join the crowd — cheer on our returning heroes!
- Come early for music, fun, and community.

Everyone is welcome — bring signs, flags, and smiles

📞 How do I contact Honor Flight Tri-State?

Call: 513-277-9626
Email: Use the “Contact” tab on our website