$36 million and counting: Delta expands its commitment to breast cancer research
For 21 years, Delta and the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) have turned a shared commitment into action, helping fund more than 720,000 hours of breast cancer research. This October, Delta is expanding that commitment with a new global approach to research funding while giving customers and employees more ways to learn, give and show their support.
For more than two decades, Delta and the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) have flown side by side, raising $36 million to advance research and support people impacted by breast cancer. This year, Delta is doubling down on that commitment, providing even more opportunities for customers and employees to engage with the cause.
“For so many of us, breast cancer is personal,” said Kristen Manion Taylor, Delta's Senior Vice President of Brand Experience. “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.”
Turning research into progress
In 2026, an estimated 324,580 people will be diagnosed with breast cancer in the U.S. Behind every statistic is a person, and behind every new discovery are years of research.
Since 2005, Delta’s partnership with BCRF has helped fund more than 720,000 hours of research aimed at better understanding breast cancer. One recent example is the OPTIMA trial, which determines that some patients with high-risk breast cancer might be able to safely forgo chemotherapy. The trial builds on a genomic test developed through research supported by BCRF, helping advance a more personalized approach to treatment and giving doctors new insight into which patients may benefit from chemotherapy.
As Delta looks to the future, it’s introducing The Delta Air Lines Fund in Support of Global Breast Cancer Research, expanding its approach beyond individual researchers and bringing donations made through the Team Delta donation page together under the Delta Fund name to broaden opportunities for scientists around the world to pursue research funding and foster collaboration and data-driven discoveries across borders.
“Research is what moves us closer to a future where more people can live longer, healthier lives after a breast cancer diagnosis,” said Donna McKay, President and CEO of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. “Delta has helped make that progress possible, and we’re excited to build on that momentum together by creating new opportunities for researchers around the world.”
15 years of carrying hope
For 15 years, the Breast Cancer One (BC1) Charter has brought Delta employees whose lives have been impacted by breast cancer together for connection, recognition and community. The 2026 charter will fly Oct. 7–9 from Atlanta (ATL) to Las Vegas (LAS), with a welcome celebration, conversations with BCRF researchers and a private F1 Arcade experience.
This year, creator and breast cancer survivor Bridget Bahl will join the group, sharing her experience and helping bring a personal perspective to awareness, early detection, community and research.
“You don’t get to choose every chapter of your story, but you do get to choose what you do with it,” said Bahl. “I’m grateful for opportunities like this partnership with Delta and the Breast Cancer Research Foundation that allow me to turn something incredibly difficult into a chance to connect with people, raise awareness and hopefully make someone else feel a little less alone.”
Beyond the charter, Delta is also helping employees prioritize prevention and find support. In-network mammograms are covered at no additional cost through Delta medical plans, while onsite mobile mammography appointments are available at Delta-specific Atlanta and Minneapolis locations. Employees impacted by cancer can also find connection, encouragement and community through Delta’s cancer support group, Hope Thrives.
Take pink further on your journey
To kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Delta joined BCRF and fellow partners at Grand Central’s Vanderbilt Hall, where an interactive experience brought the organization’s work to life through information on prevention, life after a diagnosis, ways to give back and more. Delta Brand Ambassadors engaged commuters and welcomed visitors with a coffee cart, bringing the airline’s longstanding partnership with BCRF into the heart of New York City.
Throughout October, customers can find more ways to support BCRF across their Delta journey:
- Give back while in flight: 25% of onboard purchases and 100% of Pink Drink sales will benefit BCRF. New this year, the Pink Cran Fizz and Pink Ribbon Sparkler join returning favorites Minute Maid Pink Lemonade and Une Femme “The Callie” Sparkling Rosé.
- Go behind the pink ribbon at 30,000 feet: Through Delta Sync seatback, customers can explore a specially curated collection highlighting the people, research and discoveries behind the fight against breast cancer.
- Look for pink in the lounge: Customers visiting participating Delta Sky Clubs and Delta One Lounges will find special touches and additional opportunities to support the cause.
Join Delta in giving back
Customers can make a direct impact by donating to BCRF through delta.com/BCRF, while SkyMiles Members can support the organization by donating miles through SkyWish.
From learning about the science behind a breakthrough to giving back onboard or donating miles, customers can help carry the partnership forward.
After 21 years, the goal remains the same: help make a future without breast cancer possible.
© 2026 Delta Air Lines, Inc.