WNBA athletes are set to soar in style as Delta Air Lines steps up to charter the majority of game flights for the league’s players during the 2024 season.
Launching with the commencement of the regular season on May 14, the league-wide charter initiative marks a significant milestone, marking the first time such a program has been introduced. Previously, charter flights were limited to specific circumstances, such as back-to-back games, as reported by ESPN.
The decision to implement a fully-private charter program gains momentum with rising stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese making their professional debut this year, drawing widespread attention to the sport. The visibility of WNBA players boarding commercial flights, exemplified by the Indiana Fever team headed to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, has underscored the necessity for upgraded travel accommodations.
Expressing her enthusiasm for the initiative, Clark conveyed her gratitude, recognizing the convenience and benefits it offers players in terms of recovery and travel logistics. Delta’s CEO, Ed Bastian, echoed the sentiment, expressing excitement about the airline’s involvement in this historic advancement for women’s professional sports.
While the exact timeline for the commencement of these private flights remains undisclosed, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert emphasized the league’s commitment to prioritizing its players’ needs. The implementation of the charter program, despite its substantial estimated cost of $25 million annually for the next two seasons, signifies a strategic move towards bolstering player support and enhancing the league’s overall infrastructure.