_{New Dusty (left) meets original Dusty (right), who lives in the Delta Flight Museum archives}

For many Delta employees, retirees and longtime customers, Dusty the Delta Air Lion remains one of the most recognizable characters in Delta's history. As the mascot of Delta's Fantastic Flyer children's program, Dusty appeared in activity books, magazines, birthday mailings, airport programs and onboard experiences designed to make flying fun while teaching children about aviation.

"Dusty represents a special era in Delta's history when creating memorable experiences for young travelers became part of the journey," said Gail Grimmett, CEO of the Delta Flight Museum. "This collectible is a way to recognize the memories Dusty created for generations of families and recognizing his role in sparking curiosity about travel and aviation.”

Today, we are celebrating Dusty’s legacy with the introduction of a commemorative plush, available now through the Delta Flight Museum Store online and in person at the Museum. All proceeds support the Museum's mission to preserve and share Delta's history for future generations.

The History of Dusty

Dusty's story is closely tied to Delta's own beginnings. His name was inspired by the airline's origins as a crop-dusting operation first based in Macon, Georgia, and later in the Mississippi River Delta during the 1920s—connecting Delta’s earliest chapter with generations of future travelers.

Beginning in May 1988, Delta's Fantastic Flyers program became one of the airline industry's first programs created specifically for young travelers. By the early 1990s, it had attracted hundreds of thousands of members worldwide, helping introduce a generation of children to aviation through the friendly and familiar presence of Dusty. From Dusty's Dens—airport playrooms for unaccompanied minors staffed by Delta employees—to special Fantastic Flyer "Fun Feast" meals served onboard, the program brought Dusty to life throughout the travel journey. One of the most memorable touches was Pawberry Punch, Dusty's signature drink—a blend of apple, grape and cherry juices served to young travelers. "The Pawberry Punch was a sweet berry drink we served to our youngest travelers, and kids absolutely loved it," said Mae Smith, Director of Sales and Events for the Delta Flight Museum.

More than a collectible, the Dusty plush represents a unique chapter in Delta's history—one that reflects Delta's longstanding commitment to creating memorable travel experiences through moments that delight customers. It also supports the Delta Flight Museum's mission to preserve the stories, artifacts and memories that have shaped the Delta experience across generations. From iconic aircrafts and uniforms to the characters and programs customers remember most fondly, the Museum helps keep Delta's history alive for future generations.

Whether you're a former Fantastic Flyer member, a longtime Delta employee, a retiree who helped create those experiences or an aviation enthusiast, the Dusty plush offers an opportunity to reconnect with a beloved piece of Delta history.

_{Dusty has been logging some serious miles this summer with Delta Flight Museum intern Nora Daley, traveling everywhere from Seattle to Amsterdam. Where would you take him?}