Phoenix, ArizonaMedAire and NBAA expand Wellbeing support access to individual |
MedAire, an International SOS company, and the National Business Aviation Association have announced a partnership that extends MedAire Wellbeing Services access to individual NBAA members at a preferred member rate, marking the first time aviation professionals can enroll independently of their flight department.
Until now, access to MedAire Wellbeing Services was limited to flight departments. The NBAA partnership introduces a new way for pilots, flight attendants, schedulers, dispatchers and other aviation professionals to access confidential peer support, even if they are contracted, or their employer has not established a program.
The aviation industry has long recognized a gap between awareness of mental health issues and the willingness to seek help. Research shows that 75% of pilots would not disclose a mental health concern to their employer, and 58% of cabin crew reported moderate depression during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many aviation professionals work in environments with formal Employee Assistance Programs that remain underutilized because of stigma, a lack of industry-specific understanding, or concerns about confidentiality within their organization.
MedAire Wellbeing Services, powered by Talk to a Peer, addresses this gap by connecting individuals with Peer Supporters (current or former aviation professionals trained in active listening, resilience-building, and crisis response). Developed in collaboration with OdiliaClark, leaders in impairment risk management and workplace wellbeing, the service operates 24/7 on a secure platform that matches users with peers who understand the operational realities of aviation: irregular schedules, time zone disruptions, crew dynamics, post-incident stress, and the pressure of safety-critical decision-making.
"With MedAire Wellbeing Services, we've positioned our resources at the frontline of the industry's evolving approach to mental health," said Richard Gomez, Senior Vice President of Aviation Products and Solutions, MedAire. "This partnership with NBAA ensures that mental health support is accessible to the entire business aviation community. By bridging the gap between recognizing mental health issues and actively addressing them, we're enabling aviation professionals to operate securely and confidently anywhere in the world."
The Talk to a Peer methodology is grounded in the principle that aviators supporting aviators builds trust and engagement that traditional support models cannot replicate. The program is non-diagnostic and designed to complement - not replace - clinical mental health services. Peer Supporters help individuals navigate daily stressors, work-related challenges, relationship issues, financial concerns and post-incident responses. When professional clinical intervention is needed, the program provides clear pathways to licensed mental health resources.
"NBAA is pleased to offer MedAire Wellbeing Services as a valuable benefit for our members," said Ed Bolen, President and CEO, NBAA. "This peer-to-peer program doesn't just accelerate access to treatment; it creates a judgment-free space where pilots and other aviation professionals can speak openly and honestly. Aviation professionals deserve unwavering support for their mental wellness, and a supportive environment where they feel confident seeking help without fear of repercussions."
NBAA members can access enrollment details and program information at: https://nbaa.org/membership/benefits/medaire-wellbeing-services/
BlueSky Business Aviation News | 7th May 2026 | Issue #841
