United Airlines Fantasy Flight to the North Pole

This Christmas is magical for many. United Airlines introduced the fantasy flight program exclusively for children who deserve a ray of sunshine. With more than 125 kids accompanying their families, the airline operated flights to the fictional land of the ‘North Pole,’ taking them for celebrations and festivities. The first flight of this fantasy program was launched from Honolulu International Airport, covering a distance of 30 minutes, and landing back at the airport. It took kids battling for their lives, giving them a chance to experience the utmost joy. 

This year, the list of cities includes Honolulu, Washington, Houston, Los Angeles, London, Chicago, San Francisco, Tokyo, Cleveland, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the island of Guam, Newark, and New Jersey. Here are the upcoming Fantasy Flight schedules for December 2024:

• Washington-Dulles (IAD) - December 7
• Houston Bush (IAH) - December 7
• Los Angeles (LAX)- December 7
• London (LHR) - December 7
• Chicago-O'Hare (ORD) - December 7
• San Francisco (SFO)- December 7
• Tokyo (NRT)- December 8
• Cleveland (CLE)- December 10
• Fort Lauderdale (FLL) - December 10
• Guam (GUM)- December 13
• Denver (DEN)- December 14
• Newark (EWR)- December 14

It's been more than 30 years since United Airlines volunteered with charitable hospitals and organizations to give kids the happiest Christmas of their lives. The airports in these cities are transformed into the fantasy land of the North Pole, decorated with Christmas lights, Christmas trees, and holiday treats. There is Santa Claus to greet the kids. Festive activities are also organized for the kids to engage in and try new activities. The crew members and volunteers adopted kids, buying them gifts as Secret Santa. 

The flight experience for kids becomes magical. While the window shades were closed to keep the destination a secret, the pilot and crew onboard entertained the kids with music. Announcing that Santa had sent an invitation and the elves were waiting for them at the North Pole, kids are filled with enthusiasm and joy. 

This is a life-changing experience for the kids, and this initiative by United Airlines and fellow volunteers positively impacts the lives of children who are dealing with critical illnesses every day.