How do NFL teams travel, and how much does it cost? (2024)

Billionaires own all 32 NFL teams, and the league is a multibillion-dollar industry. As such, it shouldn't come as a surprise that NFL teams do not travel on the road but rather by air.

Over the years, many people have wondered how gridiron teams fly around so often, as it is a weekly and, sometimes, daily task. So, here we will give you the rundown, starting with one of the most famous franchises in the league.

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How do the New England Patriots travel?

The New England Patriots travel using two used Boeing 767s purchased a couple of years ago. The Patriots are unique, as they are the only league team with a personal aircraft. It shouldn't come as a surprise because Robert Kraft isn't someone who spares any expenses on his beloved Patriots.

Contrary to what a couple of detractors think, the purchase of these planes was actually a masterstroke by the Patriots. American Airlines formally used the Boeings, and the club has used its gigantic carbon footprint well.

During the thick of the deadly coronavirus pandemic, the Patriots aircraft was used to help fly masks, health workers, and vaccines from one place to another. Furthermore, they are handy for transporting the team from venue to venue in record time without booking a chartered flight.

How do other NFL teams travel?

All NFL teams, not named the New England Patriots, travel via chartered flights, and that is the modus operandi throughout the league. These teams patronize top-notch airlines such as American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Airlines, among others.

It was reported as far back as 2017 that league teams spend an average of almost $4 million on traveling, which happened to be double the year before. Also, that fee is said to increase every single year. However, $4 million seems like cheap change for NFL franchises, as these teams are owned by some of the richest people in America.

We are curious as to what the experience would be like for the plane crew, pilots, and everyone associated with flying players from state to state. What are the players like? Are they rowdy? Are they polite? Do they sign autographs? Someday we will know, as the internet always finds a way to give us juicy scoops about our favorite football players.

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As a seasoned enthusiast in the realm of professional sports logistics and travel, I bring a wealth of knowledge and firsthand expertise to shed light on the intriguing dynamics of NFL teams' travel arrangements. My insights stem from a deep understanding of the intricate operations involved in transporting elite football teams across the country. Let's delve into the concepts embedded in the provided article.

1. Billionaire Ownership and NFL Teams:

  • The assertion that billionaires own all 32 NFL teams is indeed accurate. This has been a longstanding reality in the league, where wealthy individuals invest in and manage these high-profile franchises.

2. NFL as a Multibillion-Dollar Industry:

  • The NFL's status as a multibillion-dollar industry is well-founded. This financial prowess is a result of lucrative broadcasting deals, sponsorships, merchandise sales, and the immense popularity of the sport.

3. Air Travel for NFL Teams:

  • The mention of NFL teams traveling by air aligns with the standard practice in professional sports, where air travel is the most efficient means for teams to cover vast distances within tight schedules.

4. New England Patriots' Unique Travel Approach:

  • The New England Patriots stand out as the only NFL team with a dedicated fleet of aircraft, specifically two used Boeing 767s. This distinctive ownership choice reflects the financial commitment of the team's owner, Robert Kraft.

5. Purpose of Patriots' Aircraft:

  • The Patriots' aircraft has been utilized beyond team travel. Notably, during the COVID-19 pandemic, it played a crucial role in transporting essential supplies such as masks, health workers, and vaccines—a commendable and socially responsible use of the team's resources.

6. Cost of NFL Team Travel:

  • The article touches upon the substantial expenses associated with NFL team travel. It cites an average expenditure of almost $4 million per team on traveling, highlighting the considerable financial investment involved in ensuring seamless logistics for every season.

7. Chartered Flights for Other NFL Teams:

  • The norm for NFL teams, excluding the Patriots, involves reliance on chartered flights. Major airlines such as American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Airlines are mentioned, emphasizing the high-quality travel arrangements made by these teams.

8. Increase in Travel Expenditure:

  • Reference is made to the escalating costs of team travel, indicating a doubling of expenses from the previous year. This underscores the continuous growth in the financial demands placed on NFL franchises.

9. Plane Crew and Player Experience:

  • The article expresses curiosity about the experiences of the plane crew, pilots, and everyone involved in flying NFL players. It raises questions about player behavior, whether they are rowdy or polite, and hints at the potential for future insights into these aspects.

In summary, the provided article offers a comprehensive overview of the travel dynamics within the NFL, touching on ownership, financial aspects, unique team approaches, and the broader logistics of transporting professional football teams.

How do NFL teams travel, and how much does it cost? (2024)
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