United Airlines is lighting up the holiday skies with a heartwarming initiative: fantasy flights. This seasonal program transforms routine travel into unforgettable journeys for deserving children and their families, taking them to a winter wonderland at the North Pole.
With 13 cities participating, these flights aren’t just transportation—they’re the gateway to festive memories filled with twinkling lights, sparkling trees, and Santa himself. United employees and volunteers collaborate to create this enchanting experience, ensuring every detail is just right.
Where fantasy takes flight
These fantasy flights depart from key cities worldwide, spreading holiday magic far and wide. Each departure transports families to the North Pole, where airport hangars or gates are transformed into a winter wonderland. The full schedule for these special flights is as follows:
- Honolulu (HNL) – December 5
- 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
Whether families are departing from tropical Guam or bustling London, each journey brings them closer to holiday magic and joy.
Giving back, one flight at a time
United’s partnership with Make-A-Wish adds even more meaning to the program. Select flights in Denver, Cleveland, and Houston are reserved for children facing critical illnesses, giving them moments of happiness and respite.
This Giving Tuesday, United encourages passengers to donate miles or money. The airline will match contributions up to 5 million miles and $500,000, doubling the impact. In addition, illy coffee is joining the effort by donating $1 for every cold brew sold onboard in December, up to $25,000.
United fantasy flights are part of the airline’s “Good Leads The Way” campaign, which highlights its commitment to creating meaningful connections. By partnering with local nonprofits and volunteers, United transforms its routes into conduits of joy, reinforcing its role as more than just a travel provider.
How to get involved?
Travelers can join United’s mission by donating miles or making monetary contributions through this link. Every bit helps bring joy to children in need and their families during the holiday season. Visit United’s website to learn how you can support programs like united fantasy flights.
Photo credits: United
