A Delta Airline Staff
Delta Air Lines has expanded its commitment to breast cancer research after raising $36 million with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) over more than two decades.
In a statement issued on October 5, 2026 in Accra, Delta said the partnership, which started in 2005, has funded more than 720,000 hours of research aimed at better understanding breast cancer.
“For so many of us, breast cancer is personal. We’ve fought it, stood beside loved ones through it and seen what’s possible when the Delta community comes together. As we look ahead, we’re proud to deepen our support of BCRF and continue finding new ways to make a difference,” said Kristen Manion Taylor, Delta’s Senior Vice President of Brand Experience.
The airline said in 2026 alone, an estimated 324,580 people will be diagnosed with breast cancer in the U.S., stressing that behind every statistic is a person and behind every discovery are years of research.
One recent outcome of the partnership is the OPTIMA trial, which found that some patients with high-risk breast cancer might safely forgo chemotherapy.
The trial builds on a genomic test developed through research supported by BCRF, advancing personalized treatment.
As part of its expanded commitment, Delta is introducing ‘The Delta Air Lines Fund’ in Support of Global Breast Cancer Research, which will bring donations made through the Team Delta page under one fund to broaden opportunities for scientists globally.
“Research is what moves us closer to a future where more people can live longer, healthier lives after a breast cancer diagnosis. Delta has helped make that progress possible,” said Donna McKay, President and CEO of BCRF.
The airline is also marking 15 years of its Breast Cancer One (BC1) Charter, which brings together employees whose lives have been impacted by breast cancer. The 2026 charter will fly from October 7 to 9 from Atlanta to Las Vegas, with a welcome celebration, conversations with BCRF researchers and a private F1 Arcade experience.
This year’s charter will include creator and breast cancer survivor Bridget Bahl.
Delta said beyond the charter, it is helping employees prioritize prevention through in-network mammograms covered at no additional cost and onsite mobile mammography in Atlanta and Minneapolis, plus support through its cancer support group, Hope Thrives.
For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, customers can support BCRF throughout their Delta journey. The airline said 25 percent of onboard purchases and 100 percent of Pink Drink sales in October will benefit BCRF, with new drinks including Pink Cran Fizz and Pink Ribbon Sparkler.
Customers can also explore a curated collection on breast cancer research via Delta Sync seatback, while participating Sky Clubs and Delta One Lounges will feature special touches.
Customers can donate through delta.com, while SkyMiles Members can donate miles through SkyWish.
A Business Desk Report