United Airlines hosts special "flight" to the North Pole to brighten spirits for Muma Children’s Hospital patients
The morning was filled with fun, games, and a special visit with Santa for 50 children and their families.
For many kids, Christmas and the holidays are a time for presents, laughter, and festive gatherings with family and friends. But for children facing trauma and serious illnesses, the holidays can be a bit more challenging. To bring some extra holiday magic to these families, Tampa International Airport and United Airlines teamed up last Friday to host 50 children and their families from Muma Children’s Hospital at TGH for a truly unforgettable experience — a “Fantasy Flight” to the North Pole.
The event was part of United Airlines' Fantasy Flight program, which spreads holiday cheer to sick children at 12 airports worldwide. This year marked Tampa International Airport’s first time hosting the heartwarming event in partnership with Tampa General Hospital.
The families arrived at the airport Friday morning and boarded United Flight 111 for a special “nonstop” journey to the North Pole. During the flight, United crew members served cookies and hot cocoa to set the festive mood. Upon “arrival” at Gate A3, the children stepped into a Polar Express–themed winter wonderland complete with life-sized snow globes, a train, and, of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus waiting to greet them.
Throughout the morning, the kids enjoyed games, treats, and visits from beloved holiday characters.
“It was amazing to see all the collaboration between Muma Children’s Hospital, United Airlines and Tampa International Airport come to life," said TGH Senior Administrator Michael Parsons. "As we stepped onto the holiday themed plane and into the ‘North Pole’, it was a joy to see my daughters’ faces light up and reminded us that with the help of our community, the magic of the holidays still exists.”
The event was made possible thanks to the generosity of United Airlines employee volunteers and partner organizations, all dedicated to creating a day filled with joy, wonder, and lasting memories. A big thank you to SSP America and Ducky's for donating lunch for the kids, their families and volunteers.
