120 students from different regions of Costa Rica experienced their first flight this Friday, the activity “Unforgettable Journey” was certainly a unique and life changing experience for this kids.

The COPA Boeing 737-800 was full of laughter and even some tears this past Friday, December 9th when 120 kids had the opportunity to experience flying for the first time; the plane took them for a quick 40-minute flight over Costa Rican territory.

This was a Christmas gift for students of areas like Turrialba, Pococí, Frailes, Santa Maria de Dota, San Marcos de Tarrazu, Guapiles, Barrio Mexico, Los Guido, Sagrada Familia and Alajuela, an initiative by Copa Airlines as part of the celebration of their 50 years of operations in Costa Rica. These are kids in social risk and the objective was to inspire them to let their dreams fly by taking them in their first real airplane flight.

This event has been taking place in Panama for the last 23 years and it is the second time it is organized in Costa Rica. To select the kids that would take part of this incredible Christmas gift, Copa Airlines had the help of the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Culture and the Foundation Ministry of Love in the Streets. “The idea is to change these kids’ lives. For kids the experience of getting on an airplane is unique and special, something they will never forget, because it’s a demonstration that dreams even when they might seem like a far possibility can actually be achieved. The Unforgettable Journey is a determinant moment for many of them, who at the moment of facing the experience of flying can expand their horizons. This is our commitment and our Christmas wish: to give them the idea of a better future” said Elisa Brenes, General and Regional manager for Copa Airlines Central America. The kids chosen stand out in different projects and areas.

The kids could not hide their excitement, to finish a perfect and unique day once they landed they were greeted by Santa Clause, gifts and a meal.