Frequently Asked Questions

How does this innovation further the lifesaving mission of Indiana Donor Network?

TxJet allows Indiana Donor Network to continue to transport lifesaving organs across the country while both increasing safety and decreasing the critical timing between recovery and transplantation. Because of this, the lifesaving gifts transported by TxJet have a greater likelihood of viability, leading to better outcomes and saving more lives.

How does TxJet decrease time associated with organ transplantation?

TxJet provides immediate air transport for lifesaving organs, which minimizes preservation time prior to transplant. The service is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Employees also complete all pre-flight requirements before organ procurement teams reach the tarmac. This focus on reliability eliminates problems often associated with charter companies that are not specialized in the organ donation and transplantation field, such as less timely and consistent flights.

How does TxJet make organ transport safer?

TxJet provides a higher level of safety compared to the charter companies that organ procurement organizations and transplant centers have traditionally used. Unlike many charter companies, TxJet goes through an accreditation process at least every two years. It requires ongoing simulation and safety training for pilots, requirements not always practiced among charter operations. TxJet also separates itself from common charter practices by requiring two pilots to operate the aircraft at all times, adding another layer of safety. Finally, unlike many charter companies that don’t have the fiscal stability to invest in current technology, TxJet flies three new, state-of-the-art Cessna CJ3+ jets.

Are there other benefits to using an aviation program dedicated to organ donation and transplantation?

TxJet understands the complexity of the donation and transplantation process and the importance of taking care of the details so that organ procurement teams and transplant centers can focus on their lifesaving efforts. TxJet employees handle all issues related to pilots, the hangar, fuel and insurance. They also anticipate potential delays throughout the recovery process and adjust flight times, as needed. In addition, using TxJet leads to cost savings, because the company charges its partners only the cost of operation, eliminating the markup of charter companies.

What is unique about the TxJet fleet?

The TxJet fleet of three jet engine Cessna CJ3+ aircraft is equipped with the most advanced safety features available. They are also meticulously maintained by a full-time maintenance manager to both Federal Aviation Administration Part 135 and manufacturer standards.

Who are the TxJet pilots?

TxJet pilots are passionate about saving lives through organ transport and are committed to doing so safely. They are certified as Airline Transport Pilots (ATPs), which is the highest FAA pilot certification available. Although not a requirement by the FAA, TXJet also trains its pilots annually in a level D simulation environment, the gold standard to ensure preparedness for any unusual circumstance. Two pilots are in the cockpit on every flight, and all pilots are required to get first class physicals.

Where does TxJet fly?

TxJet is ready to fly coast to coast at a moment’s notice for organ transport. To date, TxJet has flown 2,126 lifesaving flights to recipients in 41 states, which is the equivalent of 527 one-way trips coast to coast.

How is TxJet funded?

As a nonprofit organization, TxJet receives reimbursement from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) which covers only the cost, without markup, for flights intending to transport kidneys to Indiana transplant centers. TxJet does not seek reimbursement from CMS for any flight that is not directly related to its charitable mission.