In a heartwarming move to support education and promote sustainable practices, Emirates has brought its Aircrafted Kids initiative to Asia, distributing 700 handmade school bags filled with essential school supplies to young students across India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and the Philippines.
The Aircrafted Kids project, a global outreach under the Emirates Airline Foundation, repurposes materials from Emirates aircraft — specifically seat fabrics and other cabin materials — to create durable, limited-edition backpacks for children in need. With over 1,300 bags already delivered in Africa, the airline’s recent expansion into Asia is part of its broader commitment to upcycling and community engagement.
Each bag distributed is a unique piece of aviation history, crafted from materials sourced during the refit of 205 aircraft. Emirates Engineering repurposed over 50,000 kilograms of cabin materials, primarily the high-quality wool and nylon blend seat fabric used in Emirates Economy Class, into child-friendly backpacks. These bags were expertly cleaned, refitted with new linings, functional zippers, and adjustable straps, then packed and delivered with the help of Emirates SkyCargo and dnata Logistics.
In India, Emirates partnered with the Smile Foundation India, providing bags and school supplies to children aged 6 to 14. In Bangladesh, the airline collaborated with Kanan, Thikana (Shelter Home), and Ahsania Mission Shishu Nagari, supporting shelters and schools focused on education and welfare. Pakistani beneficiaries were reached through SOS Children’s Villages, while in the Philippines, long-time Emirates partner Virlanie Foundation helped distribute the bags to street children and other vulnerable youth.
Each backpack contained not just stationery and calculators but also books that could be shared among classrooms, enhancing the educational impact of the donation.
Emirates representatives personally visited each partner organization, helping pack and distribute the bags, and strengthening ties with the communities they serve. This hands-on approach highlights the airline’s dedication to meaningful, on-the-ground engagement in the regions it flies to.
Looking ahead, the Aircrafted Kids trail will continue to Egypt and other destinations across the MENA region.
Emirates fans can also support the cause by purchasing items from the Aircrafted by Emirates retail collection. Proceeds from these upcycled items go directly to the Emirates Airline Foundation to fund global humanitarian initiatives.