United Airlines is making this holiday season truly magical for hundreds of children and families. Through a series of 13 fantasy flights, they are transporting them to an area at the airport transformed into a winter wonderland. (Credit: United Airlines)

United Airlines: Bringing Joy to Children and Families this Holiday Season

Chicago: A Hub of Holiday Magic

On Saturday, in a remarkable partnership with Make-A-Wish Illinois and Cal’s Angels, a Chicago-area pediatric cancer foundation, more than 65 children and their families embarked on a United plane decorated for the holidays. After a short flight from Chicago O’Hare, they landed at another gate that served as the North Pole. The children were treated to a plethora of delights, including games, treats, and visits from special friends like Santa Claus and real reindeer. All these wonderful experiences were provided by United employee volunteers and partner organizations. It was a day filled with joy and wonder.During this event, a United “North Pole” fantasy flight crew was on hand to ensure everything ran smoothly. The children’s faces lit up with excitement as they interacted with these friendly crew members. This was just one of the 13 planned fantasy flights for the year, which also included destinations such as Washington Dulles, Houston Bush, Los Angeles’ LAX, Heathrow in London, and San Francisco. Each flight was a unique experience, bringing the magic of the North Pole to different parts of the country.

Honoring the Wish Kids

A fantasy flight took off from Honolulu on Thursday, and flights from Tokyo’s Narita Airport, Cleveland, Fort Lauderdale, Guam, Denver, and Newark will all take place between this Sunday and next Saturday. These flights are not just about entertainment; they are about fulfilling the wishes of terminally ill children. In 2008, a terminally ill child was greeted by flight attendants at Dulles International Airport on a United fantasy flight. The “North Pole” itself became a destination in 2008, as seen in the pictures. These experiences have a profound impact on the lives of these children and their families.Make-A-Wish is partnering with United this year for the annual event in Denver, Cleveland, Houston, and Guam. The generosity of United and its MileagePlus members through the Miles on a Mission program is truly life-changing. Donated miles enable transformative wish experiences that bring hope, joy, and the strength to persevere during the most challenging times. Leslie Motter, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish America, expressed deep gratitude for United’s ongoing partnership and dedication.

Spreading Joy and Giving Back

United is inviting people to donate air miles or money until the end of the year. The airline will match up to 5 million miles and up to $500,000 through “travel certificates, doubling the impact and helping grant even more life-changing wishes. In addition, Illy coffee is offering a donation to Make-A-Wish on sales of cold brew throughout the month of December. Illy will donate $1 for each cold brew sold on United flights, up to $25,000, in support of the organization. This shows United’s commitment to giving back and making a lasting impact in the lives of children with critical illnesses.United Airlines is truly going above and beyond to spread holiday cheer and make a difference in the lives of children and families. Through these fantasy flights and various initiatives, they are showing that the spirit of the holiday season is about more than just gifts – it’s about creating memories and bringing hope.