Sick Children Jet Off to Orlando on British Airways Dreamflight

192 deserving children have set off on the holiday of a lifetime, courtesy of British Airways and Dreamflight, a charity that supports young children across the UK aged between eight and 14, all of whom either have a serious illness or disability.

To mark the special occasion, Shirley Ballas joined British Airways and Dreamflight to host a pre-departure party in the airline's hangar at London Heathrow airport to meet and wave off the A350 aircraft.

For over 35 years, British Airways and Dreamflight have partnered to take ill and disabled children on a memorable holiday to Orlando, Florida. Many of the children have never experienced a holiday or a trip abroad before due to the complexities involved with their illnesses.

To ensure the children are well looked after, they are being accompanied 24-hours a day by group of volunteers including doctors, nurses and physiotherapists and supported by British Airways' ground staff, cabin crew and pilots before and during their flight.

TV personality and Strictly Come Dancing Head Judge, Shirley Ballas said: "Today was a special day meeting so many brave and wonderful children before their magical flight to Orlando, Florida on a British Airways aircraft. Hearing about their incredible journeys and seeing their excitement to fly has been wonderful, I hope they have an amazing time.” 

Andy Best, Chief Technical Officer, said: “I am immensely proud of the work and achievements of my colleagues who continuously go above and beyond to make this day a reality for so many deserving children. We are honoured to be part of this long-standing initiative with Dreamflight and I hope everyone on board has an unforgettable experience."

David Gawn, Dreamflight Chair of Trustees, said: "It is an absolute privilege to be taking another British Airways aircraft full of deserving children to Orlando for their holiday of a lifetime. Not only do British Airways give priceless operational support, but their people also provide year-round fundraising support, many joining us on the trip itself".

Since the first flight in 1987, nearly 6700 children have flown on Dreamflight, with British Airways colleagues, including crew and ground staff, giving their time to support the flight each year.

British Airways supports Dreamflight through its BA Better World Community Fund, which helps organisations and charities generate extra funding through the airline's crowdfunding site. Customers and colleagues can donate to projects via the page and hopes to raise funds for the next UK trip in 2025.