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NBA Nabs Approval for VIP-Configured A321neos

Delta Air Lines will soon operate a fleet of up to 14 A321neos for the National Basketball Association.

Ryan Ewing
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Edited By: Travis Tingle
Pratt & Whitney A321neo
Airbus A321neo with Pratt & Whitney engines [Courtesy: Airbus]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The Department of Transportation has approved an updated agreement for the NBA's charter fleet, allowing for newer aircraft.
  • Delta Air Lines will replace its current fleet of 11 aging Boeing 757-200s with up to 14 specially configured Airbus A321neo aircraft.
  • The new Airbus A321neos will feature enhanced amenities, including humidifiers and lie-flat beds with interiors designed by Comlux, for NBA team travel.
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The National Basketball Association’s charter fleet is about to get a major upgrade. On Wednesday, the Department of Transportation approved a change in the agreement between Delta Air Lines and the NBA, allowing for newer aircraft.

Delta currently operates a fleet of 11 Boeing 757-200s for the NBA that are leased from Aviation Capital Group. These aging jets—which are well over 30 years old—feature a special VIP configuration.

Ryan Ewing

Ryan is Group President for Firecrown's Aviation Group. In 2013, he founded AirlineGeeks.com, a leading trade publication covering the airline industry. Since then, his work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the airline industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Previously, he worked for a Part 135 operator and later a major airline. Ryan is also an Adjunct Instructor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

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