Earlier this month, American Airlines teamed up with Make-A-Wish, The Points Guy, and The Walt Disney Company to send 26 critically ill children and their families on the trip of a lifetime. The flight, operated by a crew of volunteers, took off from New York-JFK on April 12 and arrived to a water cannon salute by the fire department in Orlando.
Once arrived at JFK, a crowd of supporters greeted passengers as they walked down the red carpet for a pre-flight party that included face painting, music and treats. The fun didn't stop after takeoff - actor and entertainer Michael James Scott, who currently plays Genie in Disney's Aladdin on Broadway, entertained passengers as they played interactive games and enjoyed a special in-flight menu. Brian Kelly of The Points Guy, the emcee of the flight, commented:
“After years of planning, it was a dream to finally take 26 Make-A-Wish kids and their families on the Best Flight Ever to Walt Disney World. I’m so grateful to Make-A-Wish, American Airlines and all of our partners and volunteers for helping bring this magical experience to life. Travel has the power to change lives, and having the opportunity to share this joy with so many deserving children and families was one of the most memorable experiences of my lifetime.”
The Best Flight Ever comes just days before World Wish Day on April 29th. American Airlines, the longest-standing airline partner with Make-A-Wish, has said it will direct all AAdvantage® miles donated to Miles for Global Health and Well-Being to Make-A-Wish up to 50 million miles by the end of this month. United, Delta, and JetBlue are other airlines participating in Make-A-Wish's Support Our Wishes in Flight® Program. American encourages customers and team members to donate miles for this noble cause.