United Airlines expands Special Olympics ambassador program

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United Airlines expands Special Olympics ambassador program

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Toby Enqvist, Chief Operations Officer and Special Olympics board member at United | Official Website

By Sky Industry News

Jul 24, 2025

United Airlines is set to expand its Special Olympics Service Ambassador (SOSA) program to include three additional major hubs: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), San Francisco International Airport (SFO), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). This expansion will add ten more Special Olympics athletes, increasing the total number of SOSA hires to 28 across all seven of United's U.S. hubs. The initiative aims to provide inclusive employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities.

The SOSA program, which began in 2019, offers part-time employment at United airports specifically for Special Olympics athletes. NFL Hall of Famer Jerry Rice participated in a recent event in San Francisco to support the new recruitment effort.

Initially launched at Chicago O'Hare International Airport during National Disability Employment Awareness Month in 2019, the program later expanded to Houston, Denver, and Washington D.C. Now it will be available at LAX, SFO, and EWR. Participants will work part-time while receiving full employee benefits and assist with customer service tasks such as check-in guidance and security assistance.

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Toby Enqvist, Chief Operations Officer and Special Olympics board member at United, stated: "I'm so proud of our SOSA team and look forward to growing at three more of our hubs – they not only enhance the customer experience in a uniquely United way but also help to foster inclusive, dynamic, and engaging workplaces for all."

In addition to the SOSA initiative, United has implemented several accessibility-focused efforts aimed at improving travel experiences for passengers with disabilities. The airline has been recognized as a Best Place to Work for Disability Inclusion for over eight consecutive years. Notably, it was the first U.S. carrier to introduce Braille signage across aircraft interiors and has developed digital tools like a sizing tool for wheelchairs.

United Airlines maintains a long-standing partnership with the Special Olympics through sponsorships and volunteer-led initiatives. Earlier this year, it sponsored Capitol Hill Day in Washington D.C., where Special Olympics athletes met with Congress members.

Through its Miles on a Mission initiative, MileagePlus members can donate miles to support athlete travel costs.