Since 1998, Dassault Aviation has partnered with Rêves de Gosse to offer children with disabilities the unique experience of flying in an airplane.
After visiting nine stopover cities from May 15 to 23, the 2026 edition of the Rêves de Gosse air tour concluded on May 23 in Perpignan.
The 2026 edition marked the 30th anniversary of the tour. Over the past 30 years, the organization has provided 38,000 first-time flights to children participating in the program.
During this year’s event, 1,540 children took to the skies, and our crew conducted 50 first-time flights.
Among the thirty or so aircraft, our official team consisted of three pilots—two of whom were from Istres—who organized the Salon Eyguières leg in collaboration with the association “Les Ailes Istréennes.” The “Xoriak” crew, made up of employees from our Anglet site, also participated in the Tour on a private basis.
“Once again this year, the children have incredible energy; they’re 100% into the ‘Rêves de gosse’ event. They’re sometimes a little nervous before getting into our planes, but when they return from the flight, they’re thrilled, with stars in their eyes. It’s wonderful to share this adventure with them.” Nicolas, Saint-Cloud
“For the duration of a flight, to make the children dream and help these extraordinary kids forget, even for a little while, all the obstacles they may face on the ground—that brings so much joy and emotion. Seeing the children smile: that’s why we do all of this. ” Julien, Anglet
“On the wishing tree created for them, the children placed their wishes, which were distributed to the pilots during the leg. When you read messages like ‘My childhood dream is to live without my illness’ or ‘It’s to be able to talk to my mom,’ you realize that if, for just a few minutes during a flight, we can help these children forget all the challenges they face every day, then we’ve succeeded in our mission.” Stéphane, Istres.
Congratulations to the organization, the volunteers, and everyone who has made this magic happen every year for the past 30 years.
Check out the photos from the May 19 event, right in the heart of Paris-Le Bourget Airport!