Passengers and crew on board today’s Jet2 flight to Pula, Croatia, from Leeds Bradford waved England flags and wore Gareth Southgate masks ahead of the World Cup semi-final.
Pilots and cabin crew waved red and white St George’s flags to welcome customers on board the service on the same day as England’s first semi-final since 1990.
The airline and sister operator Jet2holidays said the move was designed to send fans off in the best possible spirits.
Chief executive Steve Heapy said: “Our customers on this morning’s flight to Croatia were doubly excited, thanks to the football and their well-deserved holidays, so we thought we’d wave them off to Croatia with an extra spring in their step.
“As well as wishing customers a lovely holiday, we thought this was a great way to say good luck to the players too.”