For pilots, flying isn’t just about getting from point A to B—it’s about purpose, precision, and passion. For Chris Allen, an experienced pilot based in Beaufort, South Carolina, it’s also about saving lives. His Montaer MC-01 has become a key player in a growing network of aviators working to transport rescue animals to safe havens and forever homes.
From Overcrowded Shelters to New Beginnings
The first of what is expected to be many rescue flights took off on February 7, 2025, from Ridgeland Claude Dean Airport, carrying eight cats from the Jasper Animal Rescue Mission (JARM) to Pets Bring Joy in Virginia. This mission, spearheaded by JARM President Keith Hughes, Jasper County Councilman Chris VanGeison, and local pilot Kevin Kupferschmid, was a direct response to the shelter’s overwhelming intake rate. JARM receives approximately five new animals every day, translating to nearly 1,800 per year.
Finding an efficient, cost-effective way to move adoptable animals out of the shelter was critical. The answer? Aviation.
Chris Allen and the Montaer MC-01: A Game-Changer for Animal Rescue
Chris Allen stepped up as the pilot for this inaugural flight, putting his Montaer MC-01 to work in a way that exemplifies the versatility and efficiency of light sport aviation. The MC-01, known for its spacious cabin, high payload capacity, and reliable performance, proved to be the ideal aircraft for these rescue missions. With its ability to take off from short runways and operate efficiently on long cross-country flights, it provided a comfortable, safe, and fast means of transport for these vulnerable animals.
"This aircraft is incredibly well-suited for these flights," Allen shared. "It’s not just about speed—it’s about stability, reliability, and having the right space to ensure the animals are transported comfortably. The Montaer MC-01 gives me all of that, making each mission as smooth as possible."
Aviation Community Unites for a Common Cause
This mission was made possible through collaboration. Kevin Kupferschmid, a seasoned pilot with a history of animal rescue flights, played a key role in organizing the logistics, rallying a network of pilots willing to lend their skills and aircraft for future missions. With their combined expertise, they have created a streamlined process to ensure animals can be quickly and safely relocated to shelters with better adoption opportunities.
Jacquie Barker, Executive Director of Pets Bring Joy, emphasized the significance of these flights: "Our mission is to bring joy to both people and pets through rescue, adoption, and community service. Since 2013, we've found homes for over 4,000 previously homeless animals, and flights like these help us save even more."
More Flights on the Horizon
The success of the first flight has set the stage for many more. With Allen and his Montaer MC-01 leading the charge, and a growing number of pilots stepping up to assist, the sky is the limit for what they can accomplish.
For pilots, this mission is a reminder that their skills and aircraft can serve a purpose far beyond traditional flights. Whether it’s transporting medical supplies, conducting humanitarian missions, or in this case, giving cats and dogs a second chance, aviation continues to be a powerful tool for change. And thanks to pilots like Chris Allen and aircraft like the Montaer MC-01, more animals will find their way home—one flight at a time.
About Jasper Animal Rescue Mission (JARM)
Jasper Animal Rescue Mission (JARM) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the rescue, care, and adoption of homeless and neglected animals in Jasper County, South Carolina. Operating with limited resources, JARM provides shelter, medical care, and rehabilitation for animals in need while working tirelessly to find them permanent homes. With an intake rate of nearly 1,800 animals per year, the organization faces constant challenges in managing overcrowding, which has led to innovative partnerships like the recent aviation transport efforts. JARM’s mission is to give every animal a second chance at life through rescue, adoption, and community education programs.
More on JARSM: https://jarmission.org
SPECIAL NOTE FROM MONTAER TEAM: Chris is more than a customer. We love this guy!
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