According to the departure board, it seems like just another day at the Vancouver International Airport. But then what to my wondering eyes should appear, but a flight to the North Pole of course!

Thanks to Air Transat’s Flight in Search of Santa, hundreds of children and their families were treated to a once in a lifetime opportunity to fly to the North Pole. Festivities began as soon as families checked in, building anticipation for the main event. Carolers dressed in costumes taken straight from any Dickens’ classic helped put travelers in the Christmas spirit and Air Transat staff donned reindeer antlers and elf hats to the giggles of children in line. The fun didn’t stop there. Once through security and while waiting for departure, everyone had the opportunity to have their face painted by some of Santa’s elves, enjoy a magic show and ventriloquist and boogie to tunes provided by DJ Hotwax.

After what seemed like forever for the young passengers, the flight was ready for boarding!  The excitement was palpable as everyone climbed on board. After a smooth departure the flight was off in search of the man in the big red coat and his bag of goodies!  That Santa can be a tricky one to find, especially amongst the clouds, but once spotted, Santa and Mrs. Claus were invited on board by singing Christmas carols at decibels never reached before. After landing the sled on the roof of the plane, the guests of honor were on board. Going up and down the aisles with their oversized bags, each and every child on board was given a stocking full of Christmas treats, including the highlight for most, a Zu Zu pet.

Thanks to the generous support of Air Transat, children and their families throughout the BC & Yukon Chapter were given this extra special experience. In addition to the flight, the Regional Manager of Western Canada for Air Transat, Mr. Rod Ramage proudly presented the Children’s Wish Foundation with a cheque for $325,000 to help grant even more wishes to children with life threatening illnesses.