El Paso Civil Air Patrol flying virus tests in money-saving effort for Texas

El PASO, Texas -- The Civil Air Patrol is doing its part to contribute in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.

The all-volunteer auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force recently flew Covid-19 tests to Midland, where they were then transferred to another flight and flown to Austin.

About six planes from the El Paso Civil Air Patrol took part in the run.

A ground support unit and maintenance people also participated, making sure the planes were safe to fly, said John Adams, the squadron commander for the El Paso Civil Air Patrol.

By flying the test samples to a transfer point instead of using a big commercial carrier or express service, that helps to save the state of Texas money, Adams said.

Safety is also a huge priority when conducting missions during the pandemic, he added.

They disinfect the planes and the aviators wear masks and gloves, he noted.