This holiday season, United Airlines is proving that miracles aren’t just for storybooks. Through its heartwarming “Fantasy Flights” initiative, it’s offering children in need a chance to experience the magic of Christmas unforgettably. These special flights, departing from 13 cities worldwide, whisk children to the “North Pole” to meet Santa Claus himself.
Inside United’s Festive Fantasy Flights Program
The concept is simple but magical: a short flight takes off and lands back at the same airport. However, when the aircraft doors open, the children are no longer at a regular terminal. Thanks to the efforts of United employees and local volunteers, they’re transported to a meticulously crafted “North Pole. ”
The scene is nothing short of beautiful, with twinkling lights, sparkling Christmas trees, holiday music, and Santa and his elves eagerly awaiting the children’s arrival. According to NDTV reports, the excitement starts with a special announcement from the pilot. During one of the first flights from Honolulu, the pilot of Flight 3894 declared over the intercom, “Santa has invited us to Christmas Island, and all his elves are waiting there on the ground for us.”
Bringing Christmas Magic To Life
Families with children facing life’s toughest challenges—whether battling cancer or coping with the loss of a loved one on active duty—are given a reprieve from their struggles, enveloped in the joy of the season.
As per the reports from NDTV, the Fantasy Flights depart from cities across the globe, including:
- Honolulu (HNL) – December 5
- Washington-Dulles (IAD), Houston Bush (IAH), Los Angeles (LAX), London (LHR), Chicago-O’Hare (ORD), San Francisco (SFO) – December 7
- Tokyo (NRT) – December 8
- Cleveland (CLE), Fort Lauderdale (FLL) – December 10
- Guam (GUM) – December 13
- Denver (DEN), Newark (EWR) – December 14
Kate Gebo, United’s Executive Vice President of Human Resources, described the initiative as a testament to the airline’s dedication to uplifting communities. “Making the North Pole closer than ever is one of the many ways we can show support for the communities where we live, work, and fly,” she said.
Behind the scenes, it takes a lot of love to turn airport gates into festive North Pole wonderlands. The children are treated to magical experiences, thanks to the tireless efforts of United staff and local volunteers, who decorate with sparkling lights and festive trees.
The Fantasy Flights create memories that will last a lifetime, proving that a little holiday magic can go a long way.
Cover Image Courtesy: United Airlines/Instagram
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