Airline Team-ups: From First Pitches to Flying Colors

In today's fast-paced sports world, smooth and efficient air travel has become a must for leagues to run like clockwork each year. While some teams have long enjoyed the luxury of exclusive travel accommodations, others are just now experiencing it thanks to partnerships between airlines and professional squads across various leagues. These collaborations bring benefits to both parties - teams get hassle-free transportation, while carriers promote their brands and engage with fans through unique experiences. From basketball and baseball to soccer and beyond, US-based airlines have forged notable relationships with hometown heroes. Take American actor Ryan Reynolds, for example. Alongside his business partner Rob McElhenney, the duo purchased a stake in Welsh football club Wrexham AFC last year. Their first move as owners? Securing United Airlines as the team's primary shirt sponsor, much to the delight of fans who couldn't wait to get their hands on the limited-edition kits. But it's not just soccer teams cashing in on these partnerships. Delta Air Lines has been busy flying Team USA to Olympic glory since 2021, with a special fleet of aircraft wearing patriotic liveries adorned with American flags and Olympic rings. The carrier even flew the official Olympic flag back home to LA after the Paris Games wrapped up last month. Back on home turf, Delta also became the first airline to sign on as the official sponsor of the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) this year. With a fleet of specially configured charter Boeing 757s at their disposal, all twelve WNBA teams now travel in comfort and style courtesy of the Atlanta-based carrier. Southwest Airlines is also getting in on the action, recently inking deals to become the official airline of both the Denver Nuggets basketball team and Colorado Avalanche hockey squad. The Dallas-based low-cost carrier will offer fans unique opportunities like away game sweepstakes and community events featuring players from both teams. So whether you're cheering on your favorite WNBA team or watching Team USA bring home the gold, these airline partnerships are helping to elevate the sports fan experience like never before. From first pitches to flying high in custom livery, it's a win-win