Sun Country unveils first custom plane to fly Minnesota Gophers

Sun Country Airlines unveiled its first-ever custom plane over the weekend, and it features Minnesota Gophers branding.

“Sun Country is proud to debut this aircraft design that illustrates our hometown pride and longstanding partnership between two iconic Minnesota organizations,” said Grant Whitney, Sun Country senior vice president and chief revenue officer, in a release. “We look forward to continuing our multi-year partnership with Gopher Athletics and will be rooting for them for years to come.”

Sun Country was named the official airline of the Gophers in October 2023 and has flown Minnesota’s athletic programs dating back to 2012. This will be more than just a plane that flies Gophers athletes; it is the first special purpose aircraft included in the airline’s fleet of 43 passenger aircraft.

“This is a tremendous extension between two proud Minnesota brands,” said Minnesota Senior Associate Athletic Director Mike Wierzbicki. “We are very proud of our relationship with Sun Country. They have been a great partner and we are excited for Minnesota fans and college sports fans to see the Minnesota Block M and Maroon and Gold fly across the country.”

The plane was seen on a flight from Seattle to Minneapolis Sunday, according to a user on X, and is scheduled to take the Gophers football team to Duke’s Mayo Bowl in Charlotte, NC, on Monday, December 30.

Stay up to date on all things Gophers by bookmarking Minnesota Gophers on SIsubscribe to our YouTube Channeland sign up to receive our free Gophers Newsletterwhich will give you a drawing for the video game EA College Gameday 25 (you choose between PS5 or Xbox).