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

Thursday, October 03, 2024 at 12:32 PM ET

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Edited By:

Travis Tingle

Airbus A321neo with Pratt & Whitney engines [Courtesy: Airbus]

Key Takeaways:

The Department of Transportation has approved an upgrade to the NBA's charter fleet agreement with Delta Air Lines.
The aging Boeing 757-200s currently used will be replaced by up to 14 newer Airbus A321neo aircraft.
These specially configured A321neos will feature VIP amenities such as humidifiers and lie-flat beds for NBA teams and staff.

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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.