As the Official Global Airline Partner of the NBA and the inaugural title partner of the Emirates NBA Cup, Emirates is celebrating the upcoming 2024-25 NBA season with a striking new aircraft livery. This eye-catching design will begin appearing across the airline’s global network with flights starting next week.
The new livery showcases a vibrant blue gradient on the fuselage, prominently featuring the NBA logo. Emirates’ iconic lettering has transitioned from its traditional gold to a striking red, paired with an illustration of a basketball bouncing between the NBA and Emirates logos. The aircraft's engines will feature bold red cowls adorned with the Emirates logo in white calligraphy.
Craftsmanship and Collaboration
Creating the Emirates-NBA A380 livery was an extensive project that took 24 days to complete. This full repaint involved meticulous design, painting, and graphics application, all executed in-house by the skilled teams at Emirates Engineering Aircraft Appearance Centre.
NBA-Themed Onboard Experience
From November 1 to December 17, coinciding with the Emirates NBA Cup, passengers traveling to and from 14 locations in the U.S. and Canada will enjoy NBA-inspired products and services. This includes co-branded headrests, specially designed coasters, and courtside-themed menus featuring sports-inspired dishes and beverages across all cabin classes. Select Emirates NBA Cup games will also be available for viewing live on the inflight entertainment system, Sport24.
Special Offerings at Lounges
Before flights, travelers can indulge in a limited-time NBA-themed menu available at Emirates’ lounges in major cities, including Dubai, New York JFK, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Boston.
Boutros Boutros, Emirates’ Executive Vice President of Corporate Communications, Marketing and Brand, expressed pride in the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to be the Official Global Airline Partner of the NBA and the title partner of the Emirates NBA Cup. The new livery is a celebration of our partnership and the game, which connects people worldwide. We look forward to offering unique onboard experiences and connecting with basketball fans throughout our network.”
Upcoming NBA Cup Schedule
The 2024 Emirates NBA Cup kicks off on November 12 with a doubleheader on TNT, featuring the New York Knicks vs. the Philadelphia 76ers at 7:30 p.m. ET, followed by the Golden State Warriors hosting the Dallas Mavericks at 10 p.m. ET. Group play will run until December 3, leading to the Knockout Rounds starting December 10. The Championship will take place on December 17 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Collectible Merchandise
Basketball enthusiasts can celebrate this partnership by purchasing limited edition replica aircraft models featuring the new livery and other merchandise available at the Emirates Official Store.
