Team USA’s official airline Delta’s flight to the Olympic Winter Games Beijing 2022 took off on Thursday 27 January from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
The Airbus A350-900 flight, which Delta says was the carrier’s first ever Team USA-only charter, was tailored specifically for the US Olympians.
The airline had created a Team USA-themed, customised in-flight experience for the athletes which included personalised meals with input from Team USA nutritionists and a Team USA chef.
The meals, which featured local, fresh and seasonal high-protein ingredients, included dishes such as chicken cacciatore and herb-crusted salmon, charcuterie platters, Greek yogurt and dried fruits.
The on-board experience included the carrier’s new sustainable wellness-focused amenity kits, with each member of the in-flight crew wearing customised uniforms consisting of Team USA x Delta branded masks, shirts and aprons and the seat-back entertainment showcasing exclusive interviews, playlists and favourite Olympic and Paralympic moments from USA athletes.
Tim Mapes, Delta’s Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, said: “These athletes will be competing and representing the United States without family, friends or fans in the stands, so we’re determined to make this first Team USA-only charter an unforgettable experience – one where athletes feel as special during their journey as we feel proud watching them compete.
“Each team member reflects the resilience and perseverance we’ve all had to dig deep to find over the past two years, and that have long been the hallmark of Delta people worldwide. These shared values are why we’re especially proud to celebrate Team USA athletes on their journey to the world’s biggest sporting stage. For all of us at Delta, it’s a privilege to connect these athletes with their dreams.”
The carrier will fly Team USA Paralympians to the Paralympic Winter Games Beijing 2022 on 25 February from LAX.
