The world's first Christian Airline, Judah 1, is awaiting regulatory approval before taking flight later in 2020. As of now, the airline has taken on a McDonnell Douglas MD-83 among some other, smaller aircraft.

Several airlines, including some in the Middle East, do play a preflight prayer or even have dedicated prayer areas. However, Judah 1 is designed to connect passengers on Christian missionary trips which makes this airline unique.

What is Judah 1?

Judah 1 is looking to be the world's first Christian airline. Back in 2018, the airline announced plans to conduct flights geared towards missionary trips. Although, the airline wanted to carry fare-paying passengers. Of course, in order to start up any commercial airline, a host of regulatory processes have to occur behind the scenes.

MD83 Judah 1
Flying an MD83 commercially takes a fair bit of behind-the-scenes work. Photo: Judah 1

Judah 1 first flights

About a year ago, we reported that Judah 1 was aiming for flights in the summer of 2019. The first McDonnell Douglas MD83 for Judah 1 went through a C-Check at North Texas Regional Airport. However, since then, the airline has not launched any major domestic or international flights. Interestingly enough, here's what Judah 1 says about the MD-83:

We use this aircraft for transporting complete teams of up to 120 in first class comfort. Even though it is a medium range aircraft we can and do use it for long range missions.

From images released by the airline, it appears that the aircraft is currently in a two-cabin configuration. However, Judah 1 has not released any information relating to seating plans and options onboard the MD83 aircraft.

MD83
The interior of a Judah 1 MD83 aircraft. Photo: Judah 1

More aircraft for Judah 1?

Back in 2019, the airline appeared poised to take on some additional aircraft including Boeing 767s. Indeed, the airline did take on several other aircraft. including a Cessna 414.

Cessna 414
A Cessna 414 for Judah 1. Photo: Judah 1

And, the airline also has a Westwind jet. This jet was used for some Hurrican Dorian relief flights to bring resources and professionals to the Bahamas in order to help those afflicted by Hurrican Dorian.

Westwind
The Westwind jet for Judah 1. Photo: Judah 1

The interior can seat up to eight passengers. And, the aircraft appears to be a little more comfortable than other commercial jets.

Westwind interior
The interior of a Westwind jet. Photo: Judah 1

But, as of now, the airline has not released information about acquiring additional MD83 aircraft nor any information about adding Boeing 767 aircraft to the fleet.

So, what's happening with the airline?

On December 9th, the airline posted an update about flights in 2020. Currently, the airline is awaiting FAA and DOT certification. Once those processes are complete, flights will commence in "early spring 2020." As of now, the airline has not released any information about scheduled flights.

Will you fly on Judah 1? When do you think Judah 1 will take flight? Let us know in the comments!

Simple Flying reached out to Judah 1, however, the airline did not respond for comment prior to the publication of this article. This piece will be updated with a comment once received.