Virgin Australia celebrated the arrival of its 100th Boeing 737 by taking 100 Starlight children and their families to the skies for an unforgettable experience on the aircraft’s first passenger flight out of Sydney this week (Aug 5).

Virgin Australia’s Starlight flight was a success

“As Starlight’s official wish granting partner, we are delighted to use the arrival of our new aircraft to create a special experience for children who need it the most,” said Virgin Australia Group Executive of Corporate Communications, Danielle Keighery.

“Capturing the essence of Starlight’s inspiring work, [the day] is about giving these families the opportunity to enjoy some fun time together,” she said.

The excited group of children and their families included many first time flyers such as Ivy, 7 years, her Mum Tiff, dad Dave, and 6 brothers and sisters. 

Also on the flight was 6 year old Taylor, who experienced her first flight with Mum, Fiona and sister Jordyn.

“We are passionate about giving the opportunity to experience the excitement and adventure of air travel and we are very proud to support the vital work the Starlight Children’s Foundation carries out around the country,” Keighery said.

The unique flight experience included cockpit tours, in-air bingo, sing-a-long songs with crew and a special lunch service designed by the airline’s head chef, Luke Mangan. The highlight of the flight was a guest appearance from hit boy band, The Collective who did a surprise performance at 30,000 feet.

“We are very excited in our 25 years to be celebrating this milestone with Virgin,” said Starlight Children’s Foundation CEO Louise Baxter.

“Virgin generously supports our Starlight wish granting program helping us make a life changing impact in the lives of so many Starlight children and their families.”

Over the last two years, Virgin Australia has helped grant more than 400 wishes to seriously ill children and their families through its partnership with Starlight.

Virgin Australia crew and pilots volunteered their time for the maiden flight on the new aircraft and support was also received from Boeing through gift donations, Shell through a donation of fuel and Sydney Airport who waived landing fee surcharges and provided complimentary parking.

Virgin Australia’s Boeing 737-800, registration YH-YFR, entered service yesterday, initially servicing the Melbourne to Sydney route daily.