Key Takeaways
- Delta Air Lines has unveiled a custom Airbus A350 to carry Team USA athletes, families, and fans to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina.
- The aircraft features a new livery designed by Delta employee Alex Brennon, which represents the airline’s first major redesign in over 30 years.
- The plane includes features such as fully flat beds, wireless charging, and specialized lighting to help athletes manage long-haul travel and time-zone changes.
- The custom aircraft is part of Delta’s role as the official airline of Team USA and continues the airline’s tradition of introducing custom Olympic aircraft for recent Games.
Introduction to the Custom A350
The unveiling of the custom Airbus A350 designed to carry Team USA athletes, families, and fans to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina marks a significant moment for Delta Air Lines. The aircraft was introduced inside the airline’s TechOps hangar in Atlanta, highlighting Delta’s continuing role as the official airline of Team USA. The event was attended by three-time Paralympian and Delta ambassador Amy Purdy, who expressed her enthusiasm for the Olympics and the importance of the event in bringing the world together. Purdy, who has competed in three Paralympic Games as a snowboarder, plans to travel to Italy to support Team USA and experience the excitement of the Olympics once again.
The Design of the A350
The custom A350 features a new livery that was four years in the making and represents the airline’s first major aircraft redesign in more than 30 years. Designed by Delta employee Alex Brennon, the exterior of the aircraft includes 26 stripes symbolizing the 2026 Games, with flowing lines inspired by Italian landscapes. The design is a testament to the airline’s commitment to creating a unique and memorable experience for Team USA athletes and fans. The incorporation of Italian-inspired design elements is also a nod to the host country of the 2026 Winter Olympics, Milano Cortina. The new livery is a significant departure from Delta’s traditional design, and it marks an exciting new chapter in the airline’s brand identity.
Features of the Custom A350
Inside the new aircraft, Delta has incorporated features intended to help athletes manage long-haul travel and time-zone changes. The plane includes fully flat beds, wireless charging, and specialized lighting meant to help passengers adjust before arriving at the Games. These features are designed to provide athletes with the best possible conditions for rest and recovery during their journey to the Olympics. The custom aircraft is a reflection of Delta’s commitment to supporting Team USA and providing a unique and comfortable travel experience for athletes, families, and fans. By incorporating features such as fully flat beds and specialized lighting, Delta is demonstrating its understanding of the importance of rest and recovery for athletes competing at the highest level.
Delta’s Role as Official Airline of Team USA
Delta has a long history of supporting Team USA and has introduced custom Olympic aircraft for recent Games, including Beijing in 2021 and Paris in 2024. The custom A350 is the latest example of the airline’s commitment to providing a unique and memorable experience for Team USA athletes and fans. As the official airline of Team USA, Delta plays a critical role in transporting athletes, families, and fans to the Olympics, and the custom aircraft is a testament to the airline’s dedication to this role. By providing a custom aircraft designed specifically for the Olympics, Delta is demonstrating its support for Team USA and its commitment to helping athletes perform at their best.
The Olympic Experience
For athletes like Amy Purdy, the Olympics are a powerful symbol of resilience and determination. Purdy recalled her first entry into a Paralympic stadium, saying that moments like the Opening Ceremony stay with athletes long after competition is over. As she prepares to cheer on Team USA again, Purdy’s focus is on supporting athletes as they begin their Olympic journey. The Olympics are a unique and unforgettable experience, and Delta’s custom A350 is designed to provide athletes, families, and fans with a memorable and comfortable journey to the Games. By supporting Team USA and providing a unique travel experience, Delta is playing a critical role in helping to make the Olympic experience unforgettable for all those involved.