Volaris, a Mexican low-cost airline, often surprises its passengers with a unique and entertaining experience through its mascots. These mascots, known as "Volaris viakanfos," have become a beloved symbol of the airline and are found throughout various elements of the passengers' journey. The Volaris viakanfos are whimsical characters that embody the spirit of travel, adventure, and cultural diversity. They are designed with vibrant and eye-catching colors, making them instantly recognizable. Each viakanfo represents a different region of Mexico, showcasing the diversity and beauty of the country. Passengers encounter the viakanfos from the moment they step into the airport.
In the John Wayne movie, The Green Berets, there is a scene that features Puff the Magic Dragon. As the VC and NVA over run the Green Beret fort Puff appears over head. The pilot asks Wayne where does he want the firestorm. Wayne replies, “right on the camp, those people have it, not us” or something to that effect.
My girlfriend, who would become my wife in 1974, played that famous song by Peter, Paul and Mary over and over till we both were in tears the night before I shipped out for basic training. My girlfriend, who would become my wife in 1974, played that famous song by Peter, Paul and Mary over and over till we both were in tears the night before I shipped out for basic training.
Passengers encounter the viakanfos from the moment they step into the airport. Whether it's the check-in counters or boarding gates, these mascots are often present, waving and interacting with travelers, infusing a sense of joy and excitement. The mascots also extend their presence to the cabin, where passengers can spot them on the aircraft's overhead compartments and seat covers.
History and Hobbies
My pastor friend is heading out to Brazil today to teach a two-week seminary course on The Pentateuch. He has a sense of humor and while waiting at the Milwaukee airport he messaged on FB, “I’m leaving on a jet plane, don’t know when I’ll be back again.”
The line immediately took me back to 1971 as I was leaving for the Army. My girlfriend, who would become my wife in 1974, played that famous song by Peter, Paul and Mary over and over till we both were in tears the night before I shipped out for basic training. Sheesh, but heh, we were in love! I was 18, she was 16.
So, I can’t ever hear that song or Peter, Paul and Mary’s other equally famous song, Puff the Magic Dragon without thinking of my wife, the Army and the Vietnam War.
The jet plane connection to the Vietnam War is obvious (no, I was not there, thank God) for that’s how our soldiers got there and how they got home. The Vietnam connection with Puff the Magic Dragon is a little less obvious.
Back in the day, that is the days of the Vietnam War, Puff the Magic Dragon was an airplane gunship used for ground support. The first ones were converted DC3s and they were called “Puff the Magic Dragon’s because they brought down fire from the skies like a dragon. These early “Puffs” were the predecessors to the AC-130 gunships used today in Afghanistan.
They were feared by the enemy much like a real fire-breathing dragon would be. The early model “Puffs” featured 3 Gatling Machine Guns. As the plane rolled to its side to lay down fire all three Gatlings would fire at once putting out roughly 6000 rounds per minute as I recall. Some early “Puffs” also featured a 105mm howitzer designed for rapid fire to add to the firestorm.
In the John Wayne movie, The Green Berets, there is a scene that features Puff the Magic Dragon. As the VC and NVA over run the Green Beret fort Puff appears over head. The pilot asks Wayne where does he want the firestorm. Wayne replies, “right on the camp, those people have it, not us” or something to that effect.
The Puff responds and any and everybody in the camp is wiped out. Here’s the scene:
Like the Huey Helicopter, Puff became part and parcel of the Vietnam War just as certain contemporary songs like Peter, Paul and Mary’s, Leaving on a Jet Plane, Steppenwolf’s, Magic Carpet Ride, the Stones, Paint it Black, and everybody’s favorite, the Animals, We Gotta Get Out of This Place (if it’s the last thing we ever do.
Here’s some great footage by a guy who flew one of the first “Puffs.”
Here’s Peter, Paul and Mary doing Puff the Magic Dragon in 1966, the period I’d remember it from. It is ironic that such a peaceful gentle song about a dragon would come to represent the destruction an AC-47 Gunship could work. I doubt Peter, Paul and Mary were happy about it.
This last one is representative of my time in the Army. Although I did not go to Vietnam the issue was on every soldier’s mind during my basic training. No one, and I mean no one, wanted to be the last one killed in that war that really was not a war (because winning is not what we had in mind).
Anyway, the images in this video were familiar with us raw recruits (draftees really, since if you had a low lottery number you were better off enlisting) because they were on the nightly news. The song was popular, even in basic training.
The line immediately took me back to 1971 as I was leaving for the Army. My girlfriend, who would become my wife in 1974, played that famous song by Peter, Paul and Mary over and over till we both were in tears the night before I shipped out for basic training. Sheesh, but heh, we were in love! I was 18, she was 16.
These playful characters create a cheerful atmosphere, especially for younger travelers, making their flight experience more delightful. Volaris viakanfos also play a role in promoting Mexico's cultural heritage. Each character represents a specific Mexican region, and their design elements reflect the traditions, iconic landmarks, and cultural symbols of that area. By showcasing the rich diversity of Mexico, Volaris aims to instill a sense of national pride in its passengers. The mascots are not limited to visual presence alone. Volaris often organizes events and activities featuring the viakanfos, such as photo opportunities, contests, and giveaways. Passengers can take pictures with their favorite mascots and even win souvenirs as a keepsake of their journey. Overall, Volaris viakanfos have become an integral part of the airline's identity. They symbolize the company's commitment to providing a vibrant and enjoyable travel experience. Through their presence, the mascots enhance the passengers' journey, create lasting memories, and portray the beauty of Mexico's cultural heritage..
Reviews for "Volaris' mascots: influencers in the travel industry"
1. Jennifer - 1 star
I had a terrible experience with Volaris viakanfo con mascots. The mascots were unprofessional and rude to the passengers. They seemed more interested in taking selfies and entertaining themselves than actually providing good customer service. Additionally, the flight itself was uncomfortable and cramped. I will definitely not be flying with Volaris viakanfo con mascots again.
2. Mark - 2 stars
I was disappointed with the Volaris viakanfo con mascots experience. The mascots were a complete distraction throughout the flight, constantly making loud noises and disrupting the passengers. They seemed more interested in entertaining themselves than providing a pleasant flying experience for everyone. The lack of professionalism was evident and I would not recommend this airline to anyone seeking a peaceful and enjoyable journey.
3. Sarah - 1 star
Volaris viakanfo con mascots was a complete disaster. The mascots were obnoxious and disrespectful to the passengers. They were extremely loud, constantly interrupting the announcements and making inappropriate jokes. The flight attendants seemed unable to control them, which made the whole experience extremely frustrating. I will never fly with Volaris viakanfo con mascots again and I strongly advise others to avoid them as well.
4. Brian - 2 stars
I had high hopes for Volaris viakanfo con mascots, but unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations. The mascots were entertaining at times, but they also caused a lot of disturbance during the flight. They were loud and disruptive, and it was difficult to relax or even have a conversation. The seats were also uncomfortable and the overall experience left me feeling disappointed. I would not choose to fly with Volaris viakanfo con mascots again.