OREANDA-NEWS. July 18, 2011. Jet Airways, India’s premier international airline gave over 25 special children a unique opportunity to visit Jet Airways’ aircraft maintenance hangar near the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Santacruz. The educational excursion programme was organised by JetSpark, an exclusive initiative of the airline to connect with its young travelers, in association with non-governmental organisation (NGO) CHILDReach, which is dedicated to community based development for children in India.

In keeping with Jet Airways’ focus on supporting causes relating to child development and education in the community, JetSpark endeavors to open up the world of aviation to these special children. CHILDReach works with local communities to help improve children’s access to healthcare, education, child rights and protection.

At a half-day event held at the airline’s hangar, the children were given an opportunity to explore a Boeing 737 aircraft parked in the hangar. The enthusiastic children spent more than three hours in admiration of the Boeing 737-700 aircraft, learning and understanding the working of the aircraft. The children were also shown the interior of the Jet Airways aircraft cockpit, the cargo hold, airline maintenance and the landing gear operations. Later, they were entertained with music, dance and several games with exciting prizes.

The children from the NGO participated in quiz contests and interacted with Jet Airways Engineers, Pilots and Cabin Crew. They also observed videos of assembling of aircraft, besides landings and take offs of planes. Later the children were taken for a visit to the engine, structure, brake & wheel and seat shops. The educational excursion by the engineers provided children with rich insights into airline maintenance and operations.

Noted Bollywood actors Sameera Reddy and Jimmy Shergill interacted with the children from NGO – CHILDReach.

Mr. Nikos Kardassis, Chief Executive Officer, Jet Airways, said, “It is indeed a privilege for us to work with these notable NGOs and their wards. It is most gratifying to see smiles lighting up the little faces as the children look forward to such an educative program.”

Sponsors for the event were Loop Mobile, Reebok and Lindt. Refreshments were courtesy Oberoi Flight Services.