A group of young travelers battling medical issues took a trip unlike any other Saturday, as United Airlines hosted its annual “Fantasy Flight” from Newark Liberty International Airport – sending hundreds of children from local hospitals on a magical journey to the North Pole.

Around 130 children and their families were treated to a transformed United gate at the airport into a full North Pole experience.

The day began like an ordinary holiday getaway, complete with check-in lines, but this time, Santa’s helpers guided families through the terminal.

Once everyone settled in, the plane took off while the crew sang along as music played through the speakers, and the kids danced through the aisles.

When they landed, the families were greeted by Santa, Mrs. Claus and a full workshop of activities.

For many families, some of whom have faced long, difficult medical journeys, the day offered a moment of joy and relief. That includes Kori Waller, who just celebrated a major milestone after battling kidney cancer.

“We rang the bell yesterday and we’re continuing the celebration. We had our family, our friends there, we took it through the night, we woke up this morning and came here…It’s a miracle almost,” said her mother Kiana Hutchins.