The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) and Delta Air Lines have inked a new multi-year partnership, making Delta the Official Airline Partner of the league.
This latest agreement builds on Delta’s existing WNBA charter program relationship and is part of the airline’s ongoing focus on women’s sports. As part of the agreement, Delta will look to curate travel-related stories around WNBA players through its broadcast, digital and social media channels.
WNBA Commissioner, Cathy Engelbert, said: “Delta Air Lines shares the league’s commitment to excellence and innovation and is a dedicated partner in the work to uplift and empower women’s sports.
“As an airline partner of the WNBA, this partnership not only elevates the travel experience for the players, but also underscores Delta and the WNBA’s shared dedication to enhancing the growth and visibility of women’s sports. With Delta’s support, we are eager to bring the WNBA to new heights and connect with fans in meaningful ways.”
Earlier this season, Delta expanded its WNBA charter program relationship as the league introduced a full charter program for the 2024 season. Under the expanded multi-year agreement, Delta will now carry all 12 of the league’s teams throughout the regular season and playoffs.
Delta has flown for 75 championship teams across a range of sports leagues since 2000, including most recently the 2023 WNBA champions, the Las Vegas Aces. In addition, all eight playoff teams flew charter with Delta in the WNBA postseason.
“We’re proud to partner with the WNBA, where every game is a testament to our shared values of teamwork and perseverance,” said Delta CEO Ed Bastian.
“We look forward to serving these incredible athletes on their journeys and furthering Delta’s support of women’s athletics.”
The WNBA is witnessing a huge boom in terms of popularity and viewership this season. This is in no small part due to the recent rookie draft class that has seen Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese take the league by storm.
Recent successes will no doubt have caught the eye of new sponsors Delta and DraftKings, with the WNBA also securing a record-high $2.2bn broadcast rights deal which will enable its players to earn more money than ever before and enhance the league’s brand.
