In the latest instance of plane passengers being subjected to an unexpected event on during their flight, a couple has conducted their wedding on board a United Airlines trip from New Jersey to Florida.
The ceremony making Jake Meli and Abigail Power husband and wife, took place at an altitude of 35,000 ft amid decorative lights and ribbons, with the groom decked out in a red suit, while the bride wore a traditional long, white dress, according to posts on the airline’s social media.
“Surprise!”
Jake’s brother made a series of announcements explaining what was happening to fellow passengers. “Friends, family and fellow passengers, who just thought they were taking a normal flight to Orlando… surprise! You officially become guests at a wedding, 35,000ft in the air. Don’t worry, no formal attire is required. And the snack cart will be making its rounds shortly. But now, we’re right here, quite literally in the clouds, to celebrate something truly special, the marriage of my brother, Jake, and his wonderful bride, Abi.”
Whether recently divorced or otherwise traumatised by the idea of a lifetime’s commitment, the other passengers did not appear to be given much choice over their participation.
Jake’s brother went on: “So, whether you’re here for the vows, the vacation, or just trying to get home, thank you for being part of this one-of-a-kind moment.” The sibling had the power to officiate the ceremony too thanks to the Universal Life Church, where ordinary members of the public can become ordained.
Despite the disruption to the normal order of things, the couple’s fellow passengers did not appear to object – but neither did they “forever hold their peace”, instead bursting into applause and cheers in response to the airborne nuptials.
A daring occasion
The idea for the high-flying occasion emerged from a dare issued by the groom’s best friend, who had got married himself on board a cruise ship and wondered if his mate could do any better.
Being a frequent flyer since childhood, Jake took up the gauntlet and arranged the event with United. Champagne was served on board while a wedding cake greeted them on arrival in Orlando, where the couple had already previously decided to have their honeymoon visiting Disney World and Universal Studios.
It is not clear whether the challenge is ongoing within the friendship group or how anyone could up the ante, but perhaps Elon Musk or Jeff Bezos can expect a call from a would-be space-groom for a zero-gravity celebration ?
