OREANDA-NEWS. November 12, 2012. Jet Airways, India’s premier airline, on the occasion of Children’s Day, operated its annual ‘Flight of Fantasy’ for over 100 children from marginalized sections and those with special needs. As part of its annual community service initiative, Jet Airways gave these children wings to fly, by taking them on-board the airlines state-of-the-art Boeing 737-800 to experience the joy of flying.

 The children were treated to over an hour of flying along the west coast of India taking off from Mumbai’s domestic airport, Chattrapati Shivaji International Airport (CSIA) for this once in a lifetime opportunity. Through this unique initiative Jet Airways, hopes to open up the wonderful world of aviation to children vulnerable and most at - risk in our society.

 The Flight of Fantasy was operated with the support of non-governmental organisations (NGO’s) Arushi - The Learning Centre, Aseema, Cancer Aid and Research Foundation, Kalyandeep - K.C. Nanavati Special School, Save the Children India & Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care, who are all dedicated to the upliftment and education of children. Corporate partners GE Volunteers joined hands with the airline to support this noble cause.

 Mr. Nikos Kardassis, Chief Executive Officer, Jet Airways, said, “We are happy to be able to provide cheer to these children and are indeed proud to be associated with these NGOs, in keeping with Jet Airways' focus on supporting causes relating to child development and education in the community in which it serves. It is most gratifying for us at Jet Airways to see smiles light up on the faces of the children as they look forward to their once-in-a-lifetime experience in the skies. Jet Airways is grateful for the ongoing support and generosity of Indian Oil Corporation, Mumbai International Airport Limited, TajSats and all sponsors for making this flight even more symbolic prior to the festival of lights.”

 The fanfare for Jet Airways’ annual Flight of Fantasy commenced prior to the children taking to the skies with a lively programme of music and dance at the Domestic Departure Terminal. The proceedings also included a wonderful magic show, a variety of games with prizes galore, all of which helped enthrall the children in their merriment. The party zone at the domestic terminal was adorned with colour-coded balloons and streamers to add to the occasion.

 Subsequently, guests including media persons checked-in in for the flight at the domestic terminal of CSIA. The flight 9W 8043 took off from the domestic terminal of the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport at 1150 hrs and returned at 1250 hours.

 The party continued mid-air with Jet Airways cabin crew participating in the celebrations onboard this unique flight to ensure that the day remained happy and comfortable for the children. The event also saw corporates come together to make the day memorable for the children. The lounge was decorated courtesy MIAL, refreshments on board were courtesy TajSats and fuel for the flight was courtesy Indian Oil Corporation. Route Navigation charges were waived off by Airport Authority of India, while parking and landing charges were taken care of by Mumbai International Airport Private Limited.

 On their return, the privileged little guests were gifted specially designed hampers by GE Volunteers, to ensure that they took home happy memories.