LeBron James will not have to pay for his regular helicopter commute between Philadelphia and New York this season, with Fanatics providing access to its corporate aviation as part of the NBA star’s broader partnership with the company.
Front Office Sports reported Monday that a Fanatics source confirmed James has been using the company’s aviation to travel between the two cities. James agreed to a multiyear trading card partnership with Fanatics in January 2024, and his existing deal includes access to the company’s corporate aviation.
“The deal we signed with Fanatics almost three years ago includes access to their corporate aviation,” a spokesperson for James told Front Office Sports. “It’s a feature in many of their deals with their largest athletes and we appreciate their partnership as LeBron splits his time between New York and Philadelphia.”
James has been seen using a helicopter carrying multiple Fanatics logos while traveling to and from Philadelphia. Flight records indicated that the helicopter had made a dozen round trips between Philadelphia and New York during the previous week.
The arrangement comes after James confirmed that he plans to maintain residences in both cities while playing for the 76ers. ESPN’s Dave McMenamin reported that James’ helicopter departed Philadelphia’s practice facility in Camden, New Jersey, on Tuesday as Anfernee Simons spoke to reporters outside.
A helicopter flight between New York City and Philadelphia typically takes around 30 minutes, compared with roughly 90 minutes to two hours by car. Front Office Sports reported that a one-way charter helicopter trip on the route can cost approximately $4,000 to $10,000.
The unusual arrangement is part of James’ transition to the 76ers after six seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers. The 41-year-old signed a two-year, $8 million contract with Philadelphia in July, including a player option for the second season. He is set to earn approximately $3.87 million this season, the lowest salary of his NBA career.
James has continued to build significant off-court earnings through his business and endorsement portfolio. Front Office Sports reported that he has earned nearly $600 million in NBA salary during his career, while his Fanatics partnership and other endorsement agreements provide additional income.
With Philadelphia also adding Jaylen Brown and Simons to a roster featuring Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, James enters his first season with the 76ers amid significant championship expectations.
