When the world gathers for the FIFA World Cup 2026, scale becomes the defining feature. For the first time, the tournament will unfold across three countries, the United States, Canada and Mexico, transforming North America into a continent-wide arena. With more teams, more matches and greater distances between host cities, the real orchestration of this global event will happen quietly in the skies.
This is where private and charter aviation steps in, not as a luxury indulgence, but as an essential infrastructure.
A tournament measured in distance as much as drama
Unlike previous editions, the 2026 World Cup demands near constant movement. Match results dictate travel routes, often at short notice, while border crossings and airport capacity add layers of complexity.
“For aviation, the World Cup is uniquely demanding,” says Aniko Mersek, Senior Vice President of Sales at Chapman Freeborn. “Flight schedules can change overnight depending on who progresses. When you add three countries and high demand at major airports, flexibility becomes everything.”
To stay ahead, Chapman Freeborn has already assessed secondary and alternative airports across North America. These less congested gateways offer smoother arrivals, greater discretion and, in many cases, more efficient operations on peak match days. At the same time, availability of large aircraft capable of transporting full squads and staff remains limited, making early engagement critical.
Why charter aviation suits the World Cup
In elite sport, travel is not a neutral experience. Fatigue, disruption and fragmentation all take a toll. Charter aviation removes much of that friction.
Chartered flights allow teams, sponsors and supporters to move on their own schedule, avoiding crowded terminals and long delays. Groups travel together, routines remain intact and privacy is preserved. With commercial seat availability expected to tighten in host cities, charters also prevent large parties from being split across multiple scheduled services.
“Being rested and travelling as a unit makes a real difference during a demanding tournament,” Mersek explains.
Planning long before the opening whistle
Although final fixtures only take shape as the tournament progresses, preparation often begins years earlier.
“Some clients start planning up to two years in advance, especially once host cities are announced,” says Mersek. “Fans are incredibly committed, and early planning helps secure the right aircraft and routing before demand peaks.”
This long view is embedded in Chapman Freeborn’s DNA. Founded in the UK in 1973, the company has grown into a global air charter specialist with offices across North America, Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia. Decades of experience in complex passenger and cargo movements have positioned it as a trusted partner for governments, multinational corporations, humanitarian organisations and private clients alike.
Tailored aircraft for every journey
There is no single solution for an event of this scale. Chapman Freeborn designs each charter individually, selecting aircraft based on group size, distance and priorities. Options range from nimble turboprops for short regional sectors to widebody aircraft such as the Boeing 777 for long haul movements across the continent.
This ability to customise extends beyond seating plans. Cabins can be configured to support rest, privacy and specific onboard requirements, ensuring that travel enhances performance rather than detracts from it.
Performance begins before take-off
For athletes, how they travel directly affects how they perform. Charter flights allow teams to control their environment, from seating comfort to onboard catering.
“We consider everything,” Mersek says. “Comfort, rest and dietary needs all matter. When stress is reduced, focus improves. That applies to players and to those supporting them.”
Moving equipment with precision
A World Cup entourage includes far more than people. Equipment often needs to move quickly across borders, sometimes separately from teams. With in house cargo expertise, Chapman Freeborn coordinates passenger and freight charters together or independently, ensuring kit arrives safely and on schedule.
“In some cases equipment travels with the team,” Mersek explains. “When it cannot, we arrange dedicated cargo charters so nothing is left to chance.”
Privacy and security as standard
Discretion remains a priority for teams, sponsors and high profile travellers. Many charter flights operate through Fixed Base Operators, offering restricted access and a calm alternative to public terminals. For larger groups, tailored processes help streamline the experience while meeting regulatory requirements.
Supporting the entire World Cup ecosystem
Chapman Freeborn’s role extends far beyond the teams themselves. Players, fans, sponsors and stakeholders all rely on seamless movement to be part of the tournament.
“Our job is to make travel effortless,” Mersek says. “When we do it well, our clients can focus entirely on the football.”
Today, Chapman Freeborn forms part of Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest ACMI provider, operating a fleet of 145 aircraft across six continents and supported by more than 14,000 aviation professionals. The group’s wider capabilities include aircraft maintenance, crew training, ground handling and a broad range of aviation services, giving Chapman Freeborn depth and resilience when events reach this scale.
As preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026 continue, private and charter aviation will remain one of the tournament’s most vital yet least visible players, ensuring that a competition spanning continents unfolds with precision, discretion and quiet confidence.
