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Global Industry News

Xiamen Airlines honors tradition by flying goddess statue on special flight

Policy

By Sky Industry News

Jan 17, 2025

On December 18, 2024, Xiamen Airlines flight MF8107 had a unique passenger onboard - Mazu, known as the "Goddess of the Sea." The flight departed from Fuzhou to take Mazu to the Beijing Mazu Culture Center for enshrinement.

Mazu was issued her own boarding pass under the name "LINMO (Lin Mo)." This marked her first free ticket on Xiamen Airlines, made possible by Egret Points contributed by her devotees. Passengers with the "Mazu Egret Miles Card" earn extra points on flights related to Mazu temples, with some points donated to support Mazu's travels.

Xiamen Airlines upgraded the flight to a Boeing 787 Dreamliner for this occasion. Accompanying Mazu were statues like "Thousand-Mile Eye" and "Favorable Wind Ear," along with various props. The airline conducted thorough preparations for loading these items onto the aircraft.

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The check-in process began over two hours before departure, involving traditional Chinese attire and a dedicated counter for smooth processing. At 10:30 AM, after a ground ceremony, Mazu and her entourage boarded the plane. A red carpet was laid out, and special arrangements were made for securing her statue in business class.

"For centuries, Mazu culture has traveled the world alongside the Chinese diaspora. May all who encounter her presence be blessed with good fortune and joy.” The cabin featured decorations and announcements celebrating Mazu's journey.

Xiamen Airlines has supported Mazu culture since 1997 when they transported a golden statue of Mazu from Meizhou Island to Taiwan. The airline has facilitated several international transports of Mazu statues, integrating high-standard services and security measures.

On May 1st this year, Xiamen Airlines signed an agreement with Putian City's government on Meizhou Island to promote Mazu culture internationally. Initiatives include featuring Meizhou Mazu images on seat headrests and publishing related content in their magazine. They also participated in the World Mazu Culture Forum as a strategic partner.

With a fleet of 218 aircraft operating over 400 routes annually transporting nearly 40 million passengers, Xiamen Airlines plans to leverage its network to share Chinese and Mazu culture globally. This aims to strengthen cultural connections among overseas Chinese communities.