Emirates' Festive Flight Sparks Buzz: But It's All in Good Fun, Not Real Danger

New Delhi: Dubai-based Emirates Airline has released a playful Christmas video showing one of its massive A380 jets decked out like a holiday sleigh, antlers on top, a glowing red nose up front, and gifts piled high ready for takeoff. The clip is sweeping social media as travellers and aviation fans react to the festive stunt.

Is This an Actual Flight or a Gag?

The sleigh-style A380 isn't a real aircraft about to fly passengers like Santa’s reindeer team. Emirates confirms the video isn't generated by artificial intelligence, but it isn't a real flight either. The airline teamed up with digital artist Mostafa Eldiasty, known online as 100 Pixels, to craft the visuals by hand using CGI for a cheerful holiday greeting.

Every frame was made with detailed CGI work alongside the digital artist. The airline has used this artist on previous holiday clips that also became popular on Instagram and other platforms, drawing millions of views.

Why Are People Talking About Safety?

As soon as the video went up, some social media users joked about safety. Comments ranged from mock "aviation expert here, this doesn’t seem safe" warnings to playful "I have some Elf and Safety concerns" jokes. One viewer admitted the scene made them laugh but also remember they were flying Emirates soon.

What's in the Video?

In the clip, an A380 dubbed "Sleigh380" is shown on a runway at Dubai International Airport. It has big antlers and a bright red nose, like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Ground staff are imagined as dnata elves loading a giant sleigh with gifts for the world's "nicest passengers." The jet then appears to speed down the runway and disappear into the sky. The video is part of Emirates’ annual holiday cheer.