Atlas Air Worldwide, a global leader in aviation logistics, and Cirque du Soleil have unveiled an exclusive behind-the-scenes video.
The video showcases the carrier’s journey of transporting the world renowned group’s dazzling show LUZIA. In March, two Boeing 747-400 freighters carried the production from Sydney, Australia, to New York City for its North American tour.
This marks the first time since 2019 that LUZIA traveled by air, cutting the transit time by two months compared to traditional sea and road transport.
Transporting LUZIA
LUZIA, inspired by Mexico’s vibrant culture and landscapes, features intricate sets, props, and innovative elements like a unique rain curtain and massive 20-foot treadmills, originally mine conveyors, each weighing 4,500 kilograms.
With only a short window after its final Sydney performance, Cirque du Soleil needed a bulletproof logistics plan to ensure the show’s timely premiere in New York.
Atlas Air collaborated closely with Cirque’s logistics team to make this happen, delivering a seamless and secure transport process.
The video is entitled Behind the Scenes: Cirque du Soleil Taking Flight with Atlas Air. It captures every step of this extraordinary operation, from Sydney Airport (SYD) to New York’s JFK Airport.
It highlights the precision required to load and transport delicate equipment. This included specialized lighting, sound systems, and water features that make LUZIA unforgettable.
Viewers get a glimpse of the teamwork and expertise behind moving one of the world’s most iconic entertainment brands.
Partnership Comments
Richard Broekman, Chief Commercial Officer at Atlas Air Worldwide, offered comment on the logistics effort. “We’re honored to support Cirque du Soleil in bringing LUZIA to North America. Our team ensured the safe and timely delivery of everything from massive stage pieces to delicate performance gear.”
“This partnership reflects our dedication to helping spectacular productions like LUZIA captivate audiences worldwide.”
Duncan Fisher, Chief Show Operations Officer at Cirque du Soleil, added further comment. “Transporting LUZIA was a massive undertaking that required perfect coordination.”
“This wasn’t just about moving equipment—it was about making dreams come to life. Atlas Air’s expertise ensured our gear arrived on time for our New York premiere, setting the stage for an incredible show.”
Cirque du Soleil: A Four Decade History
Cirque du Soleil has enchanted over 400 million people across 86 countries in its four-decade history. Its productions, known for tight schedules and complex staging, demand reliable logistics partners. Atlas Air’s specialized air cargo solutions make it the perfect fit, ensuring Cirque’s shows arrive ready to inspire.
LUZIA’s North American tour kicked off on March 6 at Randalls Island in New York City, marking Cirque du Soleil’s first Big Top show there in nine years. The tour continues to Montreal, Quebec (starting May 15), Washington, DC (starting September 6), and Atlanta, Georgia (starting November 9).
This collaboration between Atlas Air and Cirque du Soleil showcases the power of precision logistics in bringing awe-inspiring performances to life.
Fans can watch the behind-the-scenes video to see how LUZIA took flight, giving an insight into how the most complex dreams take flight.
