Emirates Airline has 156 aircraft ordered from Boeing, compared to 196 previously in both firm orders and initial agreements
Emirates Airline has 156 aircraft ordered from Boeing, compared to 196 previously in both firm orders and initial agreements AFP / KARIM SAHIB

A couple of two different nationalities ditched the regular walk down the aisle and tied the knot in an aircraft 37,000 feet in the air between Australia and New Zealand to celebrate their "love of aviation".

David Valliant, from Australia and Cathy Valliant, from New Zealand, said "I do" in a commercial Jetstar Flight 201 en route from Sydney to Auckland on Oct. 9.

"It was the most amazing experience and something we will remember for the rest of our lives," Cathy Valliant said. "Our love of aviation is what brought us together."

Cathy had initially reached out to Jetstar via their Facebook page requesting a wedding onboard to celebrate their love for flying as well as their home countries. The airline agreed and the couple's friends and family were invited to witness the wedding. David wore a tuxedo and Cathy wore a white gown and veil. Robyn Holt, a ground crew member of Jetstar, officiated the ceremony. The couple was legally wedded at Sydney Airport before take-off.

"It was a really special occasion and definitely the first time I’ve conducted a wedding in the air!" Holt said.

The couple met online in 2011 while playing the online game Airport City. They met in person for the first time at Sydney Airport in 2013.

"We locked eyes and that was it!" Cathy said.

Three years later, David planned a proposal for Cathy onboard a Brisbane to Melbourne flight but changed his mind noticing the passengers. The couple later got engaged that evening.