United Airlines and Make-A-Wish Launch ‘Make More Wishes’ Aviation Events

Seven-city US programme offers behind-the-scenes aviation access for children

United Airlines and Make-A-Wish Foundation have announced the launch of Make More Wishes, a series of seven events across the United States designed for children living with critical illnesses and their families.

The programme will provide access to various aspects of aviation, including flight simulators, cabin crew training sessions, ramp operations, and station control centres, as well as opportunities to interact with pilots and airline staff.

Event schedule across United hubs

The events will take place at each of United’s major hubs, aligned with dates where the day and month match:

• 5 May 2026 – Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
• 6 June 2026 – Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
• 7 July 2026 – Denver International Airport (DEN)
• 8 August 2026 – Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
• 9 September 2026 – Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
• 10 October 2026 – San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
• 11 November 2026 – Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

The programme will conclude in Chicago, United’s home base, on 11 November.

Partnership focused on travel experiences

United Airlines has worked with Make-A-Wish for more than four decades, supporting travel-related wishes for children. Travel remains a central part of the programme, with a large proportion of wishes involving flights arranged through the airline’s network.

In addition to providing flights, United employees contribute through volunteering, assisting families during travel and supporting related events and activities.

Customer participation through miles and donations

Passengers can support the initiative through United’s Miles on a Mission programme. MileagePlus members can donate unused miles, while other customers can contribute financially.

The airline has also committed to matching customer donations up to one million miles during April 2026, which is recognised as World Wish Month by Make-A-Wish.

Continuing support for wish families

Through this initiative and its long-standing partnership, United Airlines and Make-A-Wish continue to provide travel experiences and activities that support children and their families during challenging periods.