Joanne Rathe/Globe Staff

The Maynard parade Santa headed to Ellie Callahan's helicopter at Minute Man Airfield, on the way to the Maynard holiday parade.

Joanne Rathe/Globe Staff

Ellie Callahan got the helicopter ready as the Maynard parade Santa squeezed in.

Joanne Rathe/Globe Staff

Santa flew with the door off so he could wave to the crowd below.

Joanne Rathe/Globe Staff

The helicopter ferried Santa Claus to the Maynard holiday parade.

Joanne Rathe/Globe Staff

Elizabeth Albota and son Lucian watched as Santa arrived by helicopter.

Joanne Rathe/Globe Staff

The Maynard parade Santa gave out candy canes after arriving by helicopter at the staging area of the parade.