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United Airlines and Make-A-Wish: Making Wishes Come True

On April 4, 2026, United Airlines proudly announced its partnership with Make-A-Wish to kick off the 'Make More Wishes' initiative. This exciting series of events will take place across seven major airports in the United States, granting children with critical illnesses a chance to experience the magic of aviation like never before.

The 'Make More Wishes' events are designed to provide wish kids and their families with behind-the-scenes access, allowing them to immerse themselves in various facets of aviation. These experiences will include time spent in flight simulators, inflight training sessions for United's Flight Attendants, visits to the ramp and Station Operation Centers, and opportunities to meet and interact with pilots. It's a unique blend of adventure and education that aims to create unforgettable moments for the children and their families.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of United's collaboration with Make-A-Wish, as well as the airline's centennial. To celebrate, the events are scheduled on significant dates: May 5, June 6, July 7, August 8, September 9, October 10, and culminating in Chicago on November 11, a date that symbolizes the act of making a wish.

Here’s a rundown of the event schedule:

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

Kate Gebo, United's Executive Vice President of Human Resources and Labor Relations, expressed the airline's dedication to making wishes come true. She said, "For 40 years, United has helped make thousands of wishes possible, building a legacy rooted in compassion, connection and impact. As we celebrate 100 years at United, we're expanding and deepening our commitment to these Make-A-Wish families by providing access to experiences and passions in addition to fulfilling wishes.”

Leslie Motter, the president and CEO of Make-A-Wish America, also highlighted the emotional significance of these moments for families: "When a child with a critical illness travels for their wish, it can be a powerful moment for the entire family, often the first time they've felt hope in months.”

Beyond simply flying children to their wish locations, United Airlines has consistently dedicated resources to supporting Make-A-Wish. Over 75% of wishes involve travel, and every year the airline covers the cost for numerous wish families, ensuring they can enjoy their experiences without financial burden. Additionally, United employees volunteer their time, assisting families through their journeys, helping with personalized send-offs, and assembling Kynd Kits filled with comforting items to ease their travels.

Customers can also play a vital role in this initiative. United's 'Miles on a Mission' program allows travelers to donate unused miles or money to support Make-A-Wish. Last year alone, over 10 million miles were donated by MileagePlus® members, and during April – known as World Wish Month – United is matching customer donations up to 1 million miles, effectively multiplying the impact.

As this ambitious series of events launches, it's clear that United Airlines is not just about flying; it actively contributes to fostering hope and joy among families in need. With a century filled with stories of compassion, the airline is dedicated to continuing its legacy and making wishes come true, one child at a time.