CAN’s ‘Fund an Angel’ Returns to NBAA-BACE, Supporting Free Flights for Cancer Patients

To support its goal of providing free business-aircraft flights for cancer patients seeking treatment, Corporate Angel Network (CAN) is hosting its annual fundraiser, Fund an Angel, at the 2026 National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE). The event is set for 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Wed., Oct. 21, at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas on the Waterbleau Terrace. Christopher Hanke will return as the event’s host.

The organization is on track to complete 2,300 flights this year, matching patients needing transportation to or from treatment with available seats aboard business jets. Since it was founded in 1981, CAN has arranged more than 70,000 flights for cancer patients.

“Every time a company shares an available seat with a cancer patient, it represents more than a seat. It represents access to care, hope and a path to treatment. We are incredibly grateful to NBAA and its members for their longstanding support of our mission,” says Courtney Easton, vice president of programs, strategy and outreach for Corporate Angel Network.

CAN is seeking donations for its silent auction, either a unique item or an experience. Last year’s event raised over $500,000 through sponsorships, individual donations, and the silent auction. Auction items included a flight simulator demo session, aircraft models, signed art, vacation packages, airline miles, Giants football tickets, Dierks Bentley signed guitars and more.

“Fund an Angel is a wonderful reflection of the generosity and spirit of this community, and every sponsorship, silent auction donation and contribution helps make it possible for more cancer patients to travel to the care they need,” Easton says.

Those interested in volunteering to support the fundraiser will receive a complimentary ticket to the event in exchange for an hour of time. To sign up for this opportunity, visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSccxO1nMX0uDzjgqxdG-7GL97DiK5PhLRnOzX4maRv2IaZr1w/viewform?pli=1.

“Business aviation has a long history of giving back and supporting others in times of great need,” says NBAA president and CEO, Ed Bolen. “NBAA is pleased to once again champion this critical, lifesaving work and support Corporate Angel Network’s vital mission.”

To learn more about CAN, visit https://www.corpangelnetwork.org. 

Taking place Oct. 20-22, NBAA-BACE is the world’s most powerful business-aviation event of the year, showcasing the industry’s latest innovations and services and hosting the leaders who are shaping its future. To learn more, visit https://nbaabace.org.