United Airlines is spreading holiday cheer with a new seasonal initiative called “Fantasy Flights”, designed to transport children and their families to a whimsical North Pole experience.
According to the Houston Chronicle, the program is a collaboration between United and the Make-A-Wish Foundation, aiming to bring joy to kids facing serious illnesses.
Starting this Saturday, flights from 13 cities — including Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport — will whisk passengers away to a specially crafted winter wonderland. The initiative transforms ordinary airport gates into festive North Pole replicas adorned with twinkling lights, Christmas trees, and a visit from Santa Claus and his elves.
The program relies on the support of airport employees, local volunteers, and United team members who build and staff these flights. United has also partnered with local nonprofits and hospitals to bring the experience to life in cities such as Chicago, Denver, Los Angeles, and Tokyo.
United Airlines has committed to matching up to 5 million donated miles and up to $500,000 in donations through travel certificates.
Leslie Motter, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish America, highlighted the transformative power of these contributions in a statement, as first reported by The Houston Chronicle:
“The generosity of United and its MileagePlus members through the Miles on a Mission program is life-changing for wish kids and their families. These donated miles enable transformative wish experiences that bring hope, joy, and the strength to persevere during the most challenging times.”
