Kris Kringle, d.b.a. Santa Claus, got the green light today from the U.S. Department of transportation (DOT) to engage in air travel to various points throughout the United States the night of Dec. 24-25.

An order granting a flight certificate and signed by U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Y. Mineta said that Santa Claus was Aexceptionally fit, joyfully willing and uniquely able to engage in the interstate air transportation for which he has requested a certificate.” The Secretary added that Santa has a 100 percent on-time arrival record, having never failed to deliver all of his toys by Christmas morning. 

In his application, Santa Claus described himself as a citizen of the world residing at the North Pole who performs a vital and specialized transportation service.  AThe points to be served are the dwelling places of good girls and boys, as well as adults of goodwill, throughout the United States and worldwide,” Claus said in his application. 

The applicant notes that his operating proposal will meet the air service requirements of countless small communities, and also will serve the major transportation hubs in all regions. 

Santa Claus also told DOT that his sleigh will be powered by eight tiny reindeer, with the addition of a possible ninth reindeer with a special air navigation warning light in its nose, in the event of fog or heavy snow.

Finally, the applicant, aware of the department’s heightened security concerns, said that although he does not have a sky marshal aboard he has asked his lead reindeer, Rudolph, to stay especially alert.

The department said that no one has opposed the application, and Mr. Claus disclosed several million letters of support from children everywhere.  AIn these circumstances, it appears that a grant of the applicant=s request is in the highest public interest,” the department said.

——-