The Air Canada Foundation, a charitable branch of Air Canada dedicated to supporting youth and children facing adversity, has just wrapped up the 2024-2025 season of the Air Canada Fan Flight trip. The programme grants children and youth who have made significant contributions to their community the chance to cheer on their favourite hockey teams at an away game. The aim this year was to promote their ongoing initiative to reward those who embodied the programme’s spirit of resilience and passion.
How does Air Canada facilitate these flights?
Such initiatives are made possible by collaborations with Air Canada Foundation, the National Hockey League, and various charitable partners like the Hockey Education Reaching Out Society (HEROS) and the Shine foundation.
Kevin Hodgson, Executive Director of HEROS, said:
“Our HEROS players all have unique stories and barriers they face in their day to day lives and show incredible courage and resilience to faces these challenges. Seeing them experience these trips—watching their favourite players or teams in action—gives them the hope and encouragement they can use to grow and thrive”.
What does the Fan Flight include?
Those selected for the Fan Flight trip can enjoy tickets to the game, airfare and accommodation for recipients and their loved ones, as well as a surprise airport send-off to render the occasion truly special. It even includes the opportunity to attend the morning skate with their chosen team, a meet-and-greet with the head coach, and much more. The Fan Flight programme hopes such events can foster social connection and a sense of community, as well as offer inspiration and motivation to young people.
Rebecca Smillie-Nedelec, Director, Community Engagement at Air Canada, said:
“Fan Flight is about creating unforgettable moments that remind these children they matter and that their dreams are within reach. It’s more than just watching their favourite team—it’s about feeling supported and celebrated … We hope this experience leaves a lasting impression, giving them the confidence to dream big and see a world full of possibilities’’.
The Air Canada Fan Flight is part of an ongoing initiative within the airline to give back to their community and to celebrate the passion of hockey fans across North America.
Do you or anyone you know feel like giving this a shot? If so, keep an eye on their website for information regarding next years session.
