The WNBA and Delta Airlines have formed a multiyear partnership to continue the league’s charter flight program following a successful debut year.
After extensive lobbying, the league secured Delta as its first charter flight program for the 2024 and 2025 seasons, with an investment of around $50 million from the commission.
The agreement now ensures that all 12 teams in the league will have access to charter flights for both the regular season and playoffs in the coming years.
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Delta will officially be recognized as the WNBA’s Official Airline Partner.
Concerns over the safety and logistical challenges of using commercial flights have long been voiced by athletes, including the need for bodyguards, long security lines, and limited legroom for players averaging 6 feet tall.
The NBA initiated its own charter flight program back in 1997.
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Delta CEO Ed Bastian expressed pride in the partnership, highlighting the shared values of teamwork and perseverance with the WNBA athletes. He emphasized Delta’s commitment to supporting women’s athletics through this collaboration.
Commissioner Cathy Engelbert expressed excitement about taking the WNBA to new heights through this extended partnership.
ION will feature key games from the WNBA’s 14-week schedule, accessible to TV and streaming audiences nationwide until Sept. 13.
Click here to see the full upcoming schedule for WNBA on ION.
Scripps News’ parent company, E.W. Scripps, also owns ION.
