United Airlines brought Christmas cheer to dozens of Guam’s children with its 11th annual United Fantasy Flight, turning a Boeing 737-800 into a magical journey to the North Pole and transforming the United Guam Hangar into Santa’s winter wonderland.
The special flight, UA 3775, departed from the A.B. Won Pat International Airport on Dec. 5 as part of United’s worldwide Fantasy Flight tradition. Children from the Make-A-Wish Foundation and The Children’s Ark were this year’s honored guests. The volunteer-driven event featured meals from McDonald’s, holiday crafts, games, prizes and personalized gifts delivered by Santa, based on wish lists submitted by the children ahead of time.
Make-A-Wish partnered with United this year to include wish children on select Fantasy Flights in Guam and several mainland U.S. cities. The organization grants wishes to children diagnosed with critical illnesses, with a wish granted every 34 minutes in the U.S. and its territories. The Children’s Ark supports families in need through assistance with medical, housing and legal expenses.
“Each year, Fantasy Flight gives us the chance to bring pure joy and wonder to Guam’s children,” said Sam Shinohara, United’s managing director of airport operations for Asia-Pacific. Stuart Suarez, United’s passenger service manager on Guam, said the event reflects the power of community partnerships working together to create unforgettable experiences for local families.
United credited the Guam International Airport Authority and several community partners for supporting this year’s celebration. Guam is one of 12 United stations worldwide hosting Fantasy Flights in 2025.