Delta Air Lines and the National Basketball Association have been given the green light to upgrade the fleet of charter aircraft used for team transport.

Upgrade coming soon

In 2015, Delta Air Lines and the National Basketball Association (NBA) signed a deal to charter teams throughout the season. At the signing, it was announced that Delta would use Boeing 757s for the charters and would transport as many as 27 teams. Since the deal was first signed, Delta has been using those aging 757s, some of which have now passed 30 years of age.

According to Airline Geeks, Delta and the NBA have received approval to upgrade the charter fleet. There were reports online about one month ago that this would take place, but the Department of Transportation (DOT) had not given the green light. Now, the regulatory agency has approved the change in the agreement.

Photo: Vincenzo Pace | Simple Flying

The revised agreement includes up to 14 Airbus A321neo aircraft, which Delta has selected as a key part of its fleet renewal. In a letter written to one of the legal representatives for the deal, Benjamin J. Taylor, Director of the Office of International Aviation, said,

“Our approval of this request is based on our understanding of the specific facts stated above and in your letter of July 23, 2024, and on our further understanding that, for in-season team operations, only members, staff, and guests of the Participating Teams will be transported on the flights and no passenger will be charged for the flights unless specifically authorized by the Department.”

Taylor added that the DOT has the authority to revoke its approval at any moment without previous warning.

Corporate Jet Investor reported in September that the planes will be equipped with lie-flat seats and humidifiers. Though an Airbus A321neo can be configured with up to 244 economy seats, the new fleet is meant to replace the 757s with 72 seats.

Recent Delta partnerships

In mid-August, Delta, along with the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), announced that the airline was becoming the official airline partner of the WNBA. The Atlanta-based airline already provided charter transportation for the league, but will now carry all 12 teams throughout the year. Additionally, Delta will leverage elevated, travel-related storytelling opportunities through WNBA media including broadcast, digital, print and social media. The airline, in turn, will have opportunities to promote the WNBA and its players’ off-the-court travel stories through digital and social media networks.

Photo: Delta Air Lines

A few weeks ago, Delta became the second American carrier to partner with a football club in the United Kingdom (U.K.). The airline announced a new partnership with Birmingham City Football Club, which plays in the third division of English football. Currently, the club is in first place, with a five point lead over Wrexham F.C.

Delta’s logo now features on the sleeves of both the men’s and women’s teams. Additionally, the airline’s branding appears on digital screens and advertising boards.