Emirates, the Official Global Airline Partner of the NBA and inaugural title partner of the Emirates NBA Cup, has launched a custom nose-to-tail livery on its A380 aircraft in celebration of the 2024-25 NBA season. This newly designed livery is set to make its way across the airline’s global network, with flights starting next week.

The fresh livery features a blue gradient across the fuselage with the NBA logo and red Emirates lettering replacing the usual gold. The aircraft’s engines have also been painted in red, showcasing the signature white Emirates calligraphy. This design overhaul was completed by Emirates’ in-house engineering team and took 24 days to execute, including the full repaint, stripping, and graphics application.

NBA-Themed In-Flight Experience

From November 1 to December 17, Emirates will offer passengers on 14 routes to and from the U.S. and Canada a unique NBA-inspired experience. In every cabin, customers will see co-branded headrests, receive drinks on custom-designed coasters, and enjoy basketball-themed menus. Passengers in all classes, including those in the A380’s Onboard Lounge, will be served sports-themed dishes and drinks. Select Emirates NBA Cup games will be available to watch live on the airline’s Sport24 channel via the ICE inflight entertainment system.

Additionally, passengers can enjoy limited-time NBA-themed menus at Emirates lounges in Dubai, New York JFK, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Boston.

Emirates NBA Cup Schedule

The 2024 Emirates NBA Cup begins on November 12 with a doubleheader on TNT. The New York Knicks will face the Philadelphia 76ers at 7:30 p.m. ET, followed by the Golden State Warriors against the Dallas Mavericks at 10:00 p.m. ET. Group play will run through December 3, with each team playing four games during “Cup Nights.”

Eight teams will advance to the Knockout Rounds, with single-elimination Quarterfinals on December 10 and 11. The Semifinals will be held on December 14, and the Championship game is set for December 17 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.