Sun Country Airlines has debuted its first-ever custom-designed aircraft livery, paying tribute to its longstanding partnership with the Minnesota Golden Gopher Athletics. This marks a significant milestone in Sun Country’s relationship with the University of Minnesota, as the airline was named the Official Airline of Gopher Athletics in 2023. Sun Country has also provided charter service for Gopher sports teams since 2012, flying nearly 500 charters over the past 12 years.
A Proud Partnership
“We are proud to debut this aircraft design that celebrates both our hometown pride and the deep-rooted partnership between two iconic Minnesota organizations,” said Grant Whitney, Senior Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer of Sun Country Airlines. “We’re excited to continue our multi-year partnership with Gopher Athletics and will be cheering them on for years to come.”
The aircraft features the Minnesota Block M and Maroon and Gold colors, and will be seen flying across the country, bringing the Gopher spirit to new heights. “This is a tremendous extension between two proud Minnesota brands,” said Mike Wierzbicki, Senior Associate Athletic Director at the University of Minnesota. “We take great pride in our relationship with Sun Country. They’ve been an incredible partner, and we’re excited for Minnesota fans to see the Maroon and Gold in the sky.”
A Historic First
The custom livery is the first of its kind in Sun Country’s fleet of 43 passenger planes. The special aircraft, tail number 809, made its debut flight taking the Gopher football team to the Duke’s Mayo Bowl in Charlotte, N.C., on December 30.
“This aircraft will be a familiar sight for customers and Gopher fans alike, flying on many routes throughout our network,” Whitney added. “Our history with Gopher Athletics provided the perfect opportunity to create a custom design that our hometown community will proudly embrace.”
About Gopher Sports Properties
Gopher Sports Properties, the locally-based team of Learfield, serves as the exclusive multimedia rights holder for Gopher Athletics, overseeing all sponsorship agreements on behalf of the athletic department.
Sun Country’s new custom livery for Gopher Athletics is more than just a design – it symbolizes the strong, enduring connection between the airline and Minnesota’s proud sports community. As the official airline of Gopher Athletics, Sun Country continues to elevate the fan experience and the success of the Gophers, on the ground and in the sky.