Your Bug Is Dead on Route 66: Who You Gonna’ Call?

By Anton Ross

Founded in August of 1999, the Aircooled Interstate Rescue Squad (A.I.R.S.) is a quick phone call away when your Volkswagen has given up the ghost and left you stranded in the middle of nowhere. With more 3,000 members worldwide, A.I.R.S. is dedicated to assisting the intrepid VW voyager when facing the occasional breakdown of either yourself or your temperamental Teutonic sled.

A.I.R.S. is a loosely knit group of volunteers of varying abilities who take time to help other VW drivers during times of need. The number of A.I.R.S. members grows larger every year, and there is no president, dues or central location. A.I.R.S. is not designed to provide loans, bail, or towing service, but if your VW ever leaves you stranded miles from home and you need help, or perhaps are just looking for a local "VW-person" contact because you are new to an area, you can turn to A.I.R.S. With the motto “Chrome wont get ya’ home,” you can be sure that this is one auto club who prefers substance over style.

To access this service online, visit the A.I.R.S. site and click on the MAP link at the top of the site. Next, click on your state. You will see a list containing people in that state who have expressed a willingness to help. If you would like to use the A.I.R.S. list for your benefit, you must put your name on the map as well and volunteer your services, whatever they may be. Please note whether a person on the list has put *ONLY CALL IF EMERGENCY* and abide by that. You can assume they probably don’t have the time or desire to meet and chat with you, but are still willing to help if you’re in trouble. Click the SIGN-UP link and fill out the form, and it will be posted soon afterward. It is best to completely read the FAQ before signing up or emailing, to answer any questions you may have and make sure things go smoothly.

The purpose of A.I.R.S is to promote the driving of your Volkswagen Type 2 bus (Late or Early model), as well as other VWs. A.I.R.S. does this by offering assistance for fellow VW pilots traveling from one locale to another. It also helps you if you’re new to a city or state find other VW owners to enjoy your hobby and lifestyle with.

So, the next time you’re planning a trip in your Bug or Bus, jump on the A.I.R.S. Web site and click through to each state you’ll be driving through. On each page you’ll find a list of names with information about each member. If they’re near your route and there’s time, email them a message and let them know you’ll be traveling through their area, and what kind of VW you will be driving. It’s also a good idea to print out the list of names to keep handy during your travels. This information may very well come in handy on your next great adventure.