Do NFL teams have their own planes? How do they travel to away games?

NFL players are known for negotiating million-dollar contracts, driving fancy cars, and living lavish lifestyles. It’s easy to imagine that their team owners would also provide them with a private plane when they are on a road game.

Surprising fact -- only one NFL team flies its athletes in its own plane. In fact, the club has two private jets to ferry them around. What is probably not as surprising is the team that owns it -- the highly successful New England Patriots.

Patriots plane with a purpose

The Patriots purchased two used Boeing 767s a few years ago -- the same planes that are used by American Airlines. This certainly seems extravagant, but the club has put its gigantic carbon footprint to good use.

Aside from transporting the team from city to city, the planes have also been deployed since the covid-19 pandemic began to fly masks, health workers, and vaccines from one place to another. They have also helped in sending relief to Haiti after a devastating earthquake and have helped transport military personnel.

Chartered flights for other NFL teams

As for the other teams, don’t feel sorry for them just yet. They may not have their team logo on their own aircraft, but they also fly in luxury and style in chartered flights.

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This gives the team the perks of a private jet without the excessive cost of owning one. American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Airlines are among those that fly NFL teams when they have away games.

The size of those travelling with NFL teams has increased in recent years, so those planes are more crowded than you might think. Some teams have contingents of almost two hundred traveling per game. The list includes players, coaches, front office staff, equipment staff, sponsors, security personnel, and doctors.