In a move likely to irk rival clubs, the Sydney Roosters have been granted exclusive access to a direct flight to the USA, offering a hassle-free journey to their destination.
The NRL had previously outlined that one club would benefit from a non-stop flight, while others would be required to travel with Fiji Airlines, necessitating a layover in Nadi, Fiji, under a newly established partnership.
As reported by News Corp, the Roosters have been notified that they will be the fortunate team flying directly from Sydney to Las Vegas aboard a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, renowned for its comfort and efficiency in long-haul travel.
The 787 series, particularly the 9 variant introduced in 2013, boasts superior features aimed at reducing passenger fatigue, including smoother rides and enhanced personal space compared to other aircraft.
The 787 has emerged as a cost-effective and sleek alternative to several Airbus models for long-haul flights and has gradually replaced the iconic Boeing 747 as the preferred choice for airlines worldwide.
The Roosters’ selection for the more convenient flight appears to have been a matter of chance, with all teams scheduled to depart approximately a week prior to the season kickoff in Las Vegas, featuring a double-header event.
The first game will witness the South Sydney Rabbitohs facing off against the Manly Sea Eagles on Sunday, March 3, at 1:30pm AEDT, followed by the Roosters taking on the Brisbane Broncos at 3:30pm AEDT.
To mitigate the impact of travel fatigue, clubs are reportedly commencing preparations with players this week, focusing on adjusting sleep patterns and pre-flight routines ahead of the Las Vegas trip. Upon concluding the matches in the USA, all four clubs will return the day after the games, allowing for a week’s rest before resuming their NRL campaigns.
