In the world of professional athletics, private sports team jets have become essential tools for success. These jets not only offer comfort and convenience but also give teams control over their travel logistics, a competitive advantage in a game where every detail matters. From basketball and football to baseball and hockey, teams are investing in customized aircraft designed to optimize performance, ensure player well-being, and streamline operations.
Why Teams Invest in Private Jets
Commercial travel simply doesn’t meet the complex scheduling demands of elite sports organizations. Delays, layovers, and limited seating options can compromise rest and recovery. Private jets eliminate these variables, allowing teams to create custom flight schedules and tailor aircraft interiors to their needs—whether that includes flat-bed seating, training facilities, or recovery zones.
Jets Used by Top Professional Sports Teams
Let’s explore the most notable private aircraft used by sports franchises today, including details on each jet’s seating capacity, speed, and estimated cost.
New England Patriots – Boeing 767
New England Patriots – Boeing 767 | Photo: Jozsef Soos
The Patriots made history as the first NFL team to buy their own aircraft—two Boeing 767s, customized with ample legroom, first-class seating, and branding. These jets are often used for coast-to-coast travel during the regular season and playoffs.
- Type: Boeing 767
- Seating Capacity: ~180
- Cruising Speed: 530 mph
- Estimated Cost: $10M (pre-owned), plus millions in modifications
Dallas Cowboys – Boeing 767-200
Nicknamed “America’s Team,” the Cowboys travel in style aboard a widebody aircraft complete with custom amenities. The Boeing 767-200 offers expansive seating and cargo capacity for the NFL’s largest traveling rosters.
- Type: Boeing 767-200
- Seating Capacity: Up to 200
- Cruising Speed: 530 mph
- Estimated Cost: ~$65M new
Arizona Cardinals – Boeing 777
Arizona Cardinals – Boeing 777 | Photo: Boarding1Now
The Cardinals’ Boeing 777 provides unmatched range and space, ideal for long-distance away games. It’s a luxury workhorse that offers both comfort and capability at scale.
- Type: Boeing 777
- Seating Capacity: ~396
- Cruising Speed: 560 mph
- Estimated Cost: $320M new
Los Angeles Lakers – Boeing 737-800
One of the NBA’s most successful franchises, the Lakers rely on a private Boeing 737-800 outfitted with extra-wide seats and onboard amenities to ensure their players can rest between tight West Coast travel schedules.
- Type: Boeing 737-800
- Seating Capacity: ~189
- Cruising Speed: 530 mph
- Estimated Cost: $100M new
Detroit Red Wings – McDonnell Douglas DC-9
This vintage twin-engine jet still holds its own in the NHL. While older, the DC-9 is a cost-effective and reliable option for regional travel in the Midwest.
- Type: McDonnell Douglas DC-9
- Seating Capacity: ~135
- Cruising Speed: 565 mph
- Estimated Cost: ~$5–10M (used)
Chicago Bulls – Boeing 727
The Bulls‘ use of the classic Boeing 727 pays homage to aviation heritage while providing a durable platform for team logistics.
- Type: Boeing 727
- Seating Capacity: ~189
- Cruising Speed: 570 mph
- Estimated Cost: ~$8–15M (depending on refit)
Miami Heat – McDonnell Douglas MD-80
The Miami Heat’s MD-80 is configured for comfort and offers great value in operational costs, especially for short-haul games along the East Coast.
- Type: MD-80 Series
- Seating Capacity: ~172
- Cruising Speed: 504 mph
- Estimated Cost: $5–12M (used)
Toronto Maple Leafs – Airbus A310
With international travel a regular requirement, the Leafs benefit from the A310’s wide-body range and reliability. This aircraft can easily handle cross-border travel throughout North America.
- Type: Airbus A310
- Seating Capacity: ~280
- Cruising Speed: 530 mph
- Estimated Cost: ~$40–70M (depending on age and customization)
Boston Red Sox – JetBlue Airbus A320
Boston Red Sox – JetBlue Airbus A320 | Photo: boston.com
The Boston Red Sox primarily travel aboard a JetBlue Airbus A320, affectionately known as the “Blue Monster.” This aircraft features a distinctive Red Sox-themed livery, including the team’s iconic “B” logo and “Blue Monster” branding. While JetBlue operates the aircraft, it serves as a symbol of the strong partnership between the airline and the Red Sox.
- Aircraft Type: Airbus A320-232
- Tail Number: N605JB
- Seating Capacity: Approximately 150 passengers
- Cruising Speed: 530 mph (853 km/h)
- Estimated Cost: $90–$110 million (new)
New York Jets – JetBlue Airbus A320
New York Jets – JetBlue Airbus A320 | Photo: johnemac72
The New York Jets have a special partnership with JetBlue, which includes a dedicated Airbus A320 named “JetGreen.” This aircraft features a distinctive green livery adorned with the Jets’ branding, symbolizing the team’s identity and pride. While JetBlue operates the aircraft, it serves as a flying emblem of the collaboration between the airline and the Jets, enhancing the team’s visibility and connection with fans.
- Aircraft Type: Airbus A320-232
- Seating Capacity: Approximately 150 passengers
- Cruising Speed: 530 mph (853 km/h)
- Estimated Cost: $90–$110 million (new); varies for chartered use
Team Aircraft: By the Numbers
| Team | Aircraft Type | Seating Capacity | Cruising Speed | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New England Patriots | Boeing 767 | ~180 | 530 mph | $10M+ (pre-owned) |
| Dallas Cowboys | Boeing 767-200 | ~200 | 530 mph | ~$65M (new) |
| Arizona Cardinals | Boeing 777 | ~396 | 560 mph | ~$320M (new) |
| Los Angeles Lakers | Boeing 737-800 | ~189 | 530 mph | ~$100M (new) |
| Detroit Red Wings | McDonnell Douglas DC-9 | ~135 | 565 mph | $5M–$10M (used) |
| Chicago Bulls | Boeing 727 | ~189 | 570 mph | $8M–$15M (refit) |
| Miami Heat | McDonnell Douglas MD-80 | ~172 | 504 mph | $5M–$12M (used) |
| Toronto Maple Leafs | Airbus A310 | ~280 | 530 mph | $40M–$70M (used/customized) |
| Boston Red Sox | Airbus A320-232 | ~150 | 530 mph | $90–$110 million (new) |
| New York Jets | Airbus A320-232 | ~150 | 530 mph | $90–$110 million (new) |
A Competitive Edge at 30,000 Feet
As sports franchises continue to prioritize performance and efficiency, private sports team jets remain a vital investment. These aircraft are more than just transportation—they are extensions of team infrastructure. From legacy Boeing aircraft to modern widebodies, each jet supports the mission of winning both on and off the field.
Beyond just convenience, private jets represent a commitment to excellence in every area of a team’s operation. They allow for tailored nutrition services, sleep optimization, medical care, and even in-flight strategy sessions. Moreover, they serve as mobile branding platforms—often wrapped in team colors and logos—that reinforce team identity wherever they land. In an age where marginal gains can define a season, owning and customizing a private aircraft is not just an indulgence; it’s a strategic advantage.