Father Christmas and his elves will be at the controls of two 45-minute Santa Flights on 7 December.

They will take off from London Southend airport, fly over the capital and the surrounding area, and then circle back. 

There will be singing and games on board as well as festive activities, face painting and a Mega Inflatables snowglobe bouncer in the departures lounge.

Ziggy Zoo will be providing entertainment and Cliffs Pavilion will be hosting a Robin Hood panto-themed arts and crafts area. 

There will also be a selection of yuletide stalls and an opportunity to write a letter to Father Christmas.

All children will receive a surprise goody bag donated by PMS International Toys in Basildon.

The Christmas flights are all raising money for good causes which are chosen once the fundraising total has been calculated. 

Last year, the event raised more than £14,000. 

“The festive Santa Flights are a truly magical day out for the children and their families, so we are delighted to be able to provide them again, whilst also raising much-needed funds for fantastic local charities and good causes,” Glyn Jones, chief executive officer of Stobart Aviation, owners of London Southend airport, said.

Tickets are £80 per person, or free for children under two years old if they are seated with an adult, and go on sale on 6 November. There will be two release times, 11:00 until 12:00 and 19:00 till 20:00.

On 7 December there will be two flights taking place, from 13:00 to 16:00 and 15:00 to 18:00 including check-in.

For more information, visit www.southendairport.com/santa-flights