Do NFL Teams Fly Commercial?
When it comes to traveling for games, the logistics for NFL teams are extensive. The sheer number of players, coaches, and support staff makes travel a complex operation. Commercial flights aren’t typically a feasible option for these teams. The demands of NFL travel are unique and require a tailored approach.
NFL teams usually fly on charter flights. Chartering planes gives them control over schedules, seating arrangements, and other necessities. Teams often use airlines like Delta, American, and United, which provide charter services specifically for sports teams.
Why Commercial Flights Don’t Work
Using commercial flights presents several challenges. First, the size of the group. An NFL team traveling includes not just players, but coaches, medical staff, equipment managers, and other personnel. This can easily total over 100 individuals. Booking that many seats on a scheduled flight is almost impossible.
Second, the logistics of commercial airport travel are prohibitive. NFL teams need to move quickly and efficiently. Dealing with busy airports, security lines, and the general public can cause delays and complications. Inconsistent flight schedules can also be a problem. Teams need flexibility to adjust travel plans based on the changing dynamics of a football season.
Benefits of Charter Flights
Charter flights offer several benefits that align with the needs of NFL teams. The primary benefit is control over the flight schedule. Teams can schedule flights to fit their game and practice schedules, avoiding the delays and rigid schedules of commercial flights.
Another significant benefit is the customization of the aircraft. Chartered planes can be configured to meet the specific needs of the team. Seating can be arranged to accommodate bigger bodies and offer more comfort. Special dietary needs can be catered to with customized meals.
Security is also enhanced with chartered flights. The entire team travels together without the presence of the general public, reducing the risk of delayed flights due to security issues. Moreover, moving through private terminals minimizes time spent in airports.
How Charter Flights Work for NFL Teams
An NFL team will typically start by contacting an airline that provides charter services. Major airlines have departments dedicated to handling sports teams and other large groups. They will work with the team to plan the logistics of each trip.
Teams will coordinate with the airline to ensure that flights are available when needed. This often means late night or early morning flights, based on game times and schedules. The airline provides a plane and crew dedicated to the team for the duration of the trip.
Loading the plane involves transporting large amounts of equipment. Each team travels with uniforms, medical supplies, and training equipment. This gear needs to be loaded efficiently to avoid delaying the flight. Specialized cargo holds in charter planes ensure that this equipment arrives safely.
Case Study: The New England Patriots
The New England Patriots highlighted how important customized travel solutions are for NFL teams. In 2017, they became the first team to purchase their planes. The organization bought two 767 Boeing wide-body jets and had them retrofitted. This move was partially in response to increasing costs and logistical issues with regular charters.
Their planes feature first-class seating throughout to accommodate all players and staff comfortably. They also included special amenities, such as extended legroom and extra-wide seats. Customized interiors ensured that the team’s travel needs were entirely met.
Other Sports and Travel
While NFL teams utilize chartered flights, other professional sports teams face similar logistical challenges. NBA, MLB, and NHL teams also typically use charter flights for travel. The rationale is similar: group size, logistical simplicity, and the need for customized travel solutions.
College sports teams sometimes use commercial flights, although this practice is more common when traveling short distances or when the travel group is smaller. Major college programs, especially those in football and basketball, often use charter flights to manage their travel.
Impacts of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic further emphasized the advantages of charter travel for NFL teams. Charter flights allowed teams to control health and safety protocols more strictly. Commercial airports became potential hotspots for virus transmission. Private terminals and charter planes afforded teams better control over their environments.
Teams implemented rigid protocols for travel, testing everyone before departure and upon arrival. Chartering planes reduced the risk of COVID-19 exposure, helping teams avoid outbreaks that could disrupt their seasons.
The Future of NFL Travel
The trend of chartering flights is likely to continue. Some teams may follow the Patriots’ example and consider purchasing their planes. Having dedicated aircraft reduces long-term travel costs and offers even more control over logistics.
Advancements in travel technology and further customization options may become available. Airlines constantly look for ways to improve their services and meet the needs of their high-profile clients like NFL teams.
Ultimately, the primary concern for NFL teams during travel is ensuring that players and staff arrive safely and are well-rested. Charter flights provide the best solution to these needs. The control over schedules and travel environments ensures that teams can focus on performance without the added stress of standard airport operations.