Emirates has successfully expanded its Aircrafted KIDS initiative, providing 700 handmade school bags made from repurposed aircraft materials to young students across India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. This charitable effort, which supports children’s education while promoting sustainability, is part of Emirates’ ongoing commitment to making a positive impact in the communities it serves.
The schoolbags, created from upcycled materials sourced from Emirates’ iconic aircraft, serve as both a functional item and a piece of aviation history. This delivery to Asia follows a successful distribution of 1,300 Aircrafted KIDS bags across Africa, as part of Emirates’ larger initiative to upcycle aircraft parts for the benefit of children globally.
Collaborations Across Asia
In India, Emirates worked alongside the Smile Foundation, which supports educational and livelihood programs for children aged 6 to 14. In Bangladesh, partnerships were formed with Kanan, Thikana (Shelter Home), and Ahsania Mission Shishu Nagari, which provide shelter and education for vulnerable women and children in Dhaka. In Pakistan, Emirates collaborated with SOS Children’s Villages, an organization that supports disadvantaged youths by creating safe and nurturing environments for their education. In the Philippines, Emirates continued its longstanding partnership with the Virlanie Foundation, which works to help disadvantaged children reintegrate into society.
Through the Emirates Airline Foundation, the airline has a deep-rooted history of supporting children’s welfare. The Aircrafted KIDS initiative is a direct extension of this commitment. Local Emirates offices in these countries played an active role in packing and distributing the bags, building meaningful connections with the communities.
Inside the schoolbags, students received essential school supplies such as stationery, calculators, books, and other educational materials to support their learning journey.
Next Steps for Aircrafted KIDS
Following the successful distribution in Asia, the next phase of the initiative will bring Aircrafted KIDS bags to children in Egypt, with further destinations in the MENA region to follow.
The Making of Aircrafted KIDS BagsEmirates’ commitment to sustainability shines through the creation of the Aircrafted KIDS bags. As part of their environmental strategy, the airline has repurposed over 50,000 kilograms of materials from 205 aircraft undergoing cabin interior refurbishments. The high-quality seat fabric used to create these backpacks is made of 95% wool and 5% nylon, offering durability and fire-resistance – perfect for upcycling.
A team of 14 Emirates Engineering Maintenance Assistants worked creatively to design and construct the backpacks. The bags were meticulously laundered, deep-cleaned, and hand-conditioned before being sewn into unique, functional pieces. Each bag was outfitted with brand-new linings, zippers, and adjustable straps, ensuring comfort and safety for the students. The bags were then carefully packed in branded Aircrafted Kids boxes and shipped with full support from Emirates’ SkyCargo and dnata Logistics teams.
Limited Edition Luggage for Sale
Emirates fans can also participate in the Aircrafted initiative by purchasing limited-edition luggage from the Aircrafted by Emirates retail collection. Proceeds from these sales, after costs, will be donated to the Emirates Airline Foundation to support global humanitarian projects. The first collection sold out quickly, and a second phase of the capsule collection is set to launch soon. Customers can also donate directly to the Emirates Airline Foundation to help children in need.
Through the Aircrafted KIDS initiative, Emirates continues to connect communities, upcycle materials for a better future, and provide essential support for children’s education across the globe.
