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On January 19, 2026, US Marines flew to Norway on the New England Patriots’ Boeing 767-300ER private jet as they headed to Bardufoss to prepare for Exercise Cold Response 26. Approximately 3,000 Marines are set to participate alongside additional US forces and around 25,000 service members from twelve countries in Cold Response 26.
Norway is leading Cold Response 26, a winter military drill designed to strengthen collective defense and demonstrate that US forces can quickly deploy and work alongside NATO allies in Arctic conditions. The development comes against the backdrop of the Trump administration’s aggressive rhetoric about acquiring Greenland from Denmark, a key European ally.
Patriots Team Jet Carries US Marines To Arctic Deployment
For long-distance movements, especially when commercial lift or military transport aircraft are limited, the US Department of Defense (DOD), or currently the Department of War, contracts civilian carriers. The New England Patriots, an American football team, own two Boeing 767-300ERs, nicknamed “AirKraft,” operated through a charter subsidiary. These aircraft are regularly leased out when not required for team travel and operate a range of other flights, including humanitarian missions and military charter services.
According to ch-aviation data, both Boeing 767-300ERs are operated by Omni Air International. Configured in a VIP layout, both 767-300ERs are relatively old. The aircraft registered as N225NE is 34.3 years old and was originally delivered to 
American Airlines in 1991. The second 767-300ER, registered as N36NE, is slightly older at 34.4 years and was likewise first ordered and operated by American Airlines.
More About The New England Patriots 767s
The New England Patriots are among the most valuable sports franchises in the world. The team began exploring the idea of owning its own aircraft in 2015, and two years later purchased two Boeing 767s to support team travel, becoming the first NFL franchise to acquire its own jets.
After the purchase, the aircraft, previously operated by American Airlines, were retrofitted with first-class seating and repainted with the Patriots’ branding, including the team logo and five Lombardi trophies on the tail. Initially, Eastern Airlines managed all flight and ground operations for the jets. However, the Patriots later filed a $22.8 million lawsuit against Eastern, alleging the carrier breached its contract by raising service prices after 2023.
Currently, Omni Air International has been operating the planes since February 2024. Omni Air International, a subsidiary of Air Transport Services Group, has signed a long-term agreement with the team to operate their two aircraft for team travel, charter flights, humanitarian and goodwill flights, and other charter customers. Delivered to American Airlines in 1991, the aircraft served with American Airlines for over 24 years before being stored in March 2016.
A Look At The New England Patriots Private Jet Fleet
The football team operates a dynamic aircraft fleet.
Inside The Cabin
After acquiring both aircraft previously operated by American Airlines, the Patriots team undertook a full cabin overhaul. The renovation, designed by Kraft Sports and Entertainment, refurbished nearly the entire interior, with the exception of the cabin dividers and lavatories. Updated carpets, overhead bins, and seating were installed to enhance both aesthetics and comfort, providing ample space suitable for tall players.
The in-flight entertainment aspect was also prioritized, with screens in the seats and a wide range of in-flight entertainment. The plane is always ready with a VIP setup and premium standards. The Boeing 767’s original design featured three seating configurations, including first, business, and economy classes, providing flexibility to tailor the aircraft for different markets (The full economy configuration accommodates up to 290 passengers). The aircraft dimensions are:
- Length: 159 ft 2 in (48.51 m)
- Wingspan: 156 ft 1 in (47.57 m)
- Cabin width: 186 in (4.72 m)
Its dimensions balance passenger comfort and operational efficiency, while its approximate maximum range of 6,000 nautical miles (11,000 km) ensures it can connect destinations nonstop across the US and worldwide.
