Professional Sports Teams Elevate Travel with Private Jets

Professional sports teams often find themselves on the road for extensive periods, requiring reliable and comfortable travel options. While many franchises lease aircraft or partner with commercial airlines, several elite teams have taken travel to the next level by owning private jets. As of 2026, a select group of teams stands out for their dedicated aircraft, which cater to the specific needs of players and staff. This article highlights five notable sports franchises that have invested in their own private jets, showcasing the benefits of luxury and convenience.

Arizona Cardinals: Leading the Way with a Boeing 777

The Arizona Cardinals have established the most sophisticated private aviation program in professional sports. Since 2021, this National Football League franchise has operated a widebody Boeing 777-200ER. They have also acquired additional aircraft under an affiliate named Gridiron Air. This program allows the Cardinals to manage up to five Boeing 777s, with at least two in active service as of early 2026.

The primary team aircraft, registered as N777AZ, features four cabin zones and can accommodate 275 passengers. It includes 28 lie-flat seats and full in-flight entertainment and dining capabilities. Cardinals owner Michael Bidwill emphasized the importance of this aircraft, stating, “This aircraft will not only provide major convenience but also maximum comfort for our players when getting them to and from road games.”

In 2025, the Cardinals even dedicated one of their jets for an exclusive fan travel package, allowing loyal supporters to travel alongside the team.

New England Patriots: A Pioneering Spirit with a Boeing 767

The New England Patriots may not have the largest fleet, but they were the first NFL team to own a private jet. In 2017, they acquired two Boeing 767-300ER aircraft, with one designated as the primary transport, nicknamed AirKraft. The planes, featuring a patriotic red, white, and blue livery, were designed specifically for player comfort, boasting an all-first-class layout with wider seats and additional legroom.

The team’s aircraft is operated by Omni Air International under a long-term agreement, and when not in use for team travel, the jets are leased for humanitarian and military charters. Notably, one of the Patriots-branded jets was utilized in January and February 2026 to transport U.S. Marines and Navy sailors to Norway for Exercise Cold Response 26, a significant NATO training mission.

Houston Rockets: Comfort and Performance with a Boeing 767

Since 2019, the Houston Rockets have relied on a customized Boeing 767-300ER for their travel needs. This aircraft, registered as N625HR, was designed to provide superior comfort and was fully integrated into the team’s travel operations by early 2022.

In January 2026, the NBA announced that the Rockets would fly to Macau for the NBA China Games 2026, with preseason matchups against the Dallas Mavericks scheduled for October 9 and October 11. Owner Tilman Fertitta expressed excitement about the trip, highlighting the strong connection the Rockets have with Chinese basketball fans since drafting Hall of Famer Yao Ming.

The aircraft is exclusively managed by iAero Airways for the Rockets, and it is also used by the Houston Astros during the MLB off-season, showcasing its versatility and commitment to comfort.

Dallas Mavericks: A Customized Boeing 757 for Team Needs

Former majority owner Mark Cuban has transformed a Boeing 757-200 into the new team aircraft for the Dallas Mavericks. The plane, registered as N801DM and nicknamed Mavs 1, underwent an extensive VIP retrofit towards the end of 2025, preparing for a busy 2026 NBA season.

The refurbished aircraft features specialized sections that enhance player recovery and staff productivity, including higher ceilings and luxurious team-branded upholstery. Notably, the jet is equipped with touchscreens at every seat and high-speed Wi-Fi. Cuban has tailored the aircraft to meet the unique needs of his team, integrating an onboard weight room, medical treatment space, and conference rooms.

Cuban’s passion for aviation is evident, as he has a history of acquiring luxury jets and has even set a Guinness World Record for the largest e-commerce transaction when he purchased a Gulfstream V for $40 million via email.

Detroit Tigers: A Shared Boeing 737 in Major League Baseball

The Detroit Tigers are the only Major League Baseball team with their own private jet, sharing a Boeing 737-800 with the Detroit Red Wings. Registered as N313TR and dubbed Red Bird III, this aircraft replaced an aging McDonnell Douglas MD-81 in early 2024.

The jet is configured with an all-VIP layout, accommodating 70 to 80 players, coaches, and support staff. Operated by Olympia Aviation, a subsidiary of Ilitch Sports and Entertainment, the aircraft enhances player recovery and provides ample cargo space for equipment.

The Tigers utilize this jet for travel between their Spring Training home at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland, Florida, and various away venues. As part of their 2026 spring preparations, the team will travel to the Dominican Republic on March 3–4, 2026, for exhibition games against the Dominican national team.

As professional sports teams continue to invest in private aviation, the emphasis on comfort, convenience, and performance is clear. These dedicated jets not only enhance the travel experience for players and staff but also reflect the commitment of franchises to excel both on and off the field.