Thanksgiving 2024 has set new records for air travel, with TSA Administrator David Pekoske declaring it “the busiest Thanksgiving ever” for U.S. airports. The TSA is preparing to manage 18 million travelers nationwide. Among those navigating this travel chaos is Olympic champion Simone Biles, who took extra measures to ensure she could spend Thanksgiving with her husband, Jonathan Owens, a safety for the Chicago Bears.
Biles, 27, revealed her plans to Us Weekly, explaining her strategy to balance the holiday with her husband’s football schedule. She shared that she would fly to Detroit on Thanksgiving morning to watch the Bears play against the Lions before flying back the same day. This ensures the couple can celebrate the holiday together despite their demanding schedules. Acknowledging the hectic nature of this plan, Biles hinted at using private air travel to avoid the logistical challenges of commercial flying.
For Biles, traveling by private jet is a convenient option. As a brand ambassador for Amalfi Jets, a luxury private airline service, she enjoys unparalleled comfort and flexibility. The cost of chartering a jet for a trip like hers, from Texas to Detroit, is estimated to be around $10,000, according to the airline’s pricing for similar routes. While this might seem extravagant, Biles values the opportunity to spend time with her husband during the holidays, especially given the couple’s often conflicting schedules.
Throughout 2024, Biles and Owens have made concerted efforts to prioritize their relationship despite their demanding careers. Earlier in the year, Biles was fully immersed in her preparations for the Paris Olympics, where she earned three gold medals. Owens, meanwhile, traveled to Paris to support her, though the restrictions in the athlete village limited their time together. Following the Olympics, Biles embarked on the Gold Over America Tour, further limiting their time as a couple. Similarly, Owens’ NFL commitments, including the current season with the Chicago Bears, have kept him busy.
Despite these challenges, the couple has consistently found ways to connect. Biles attended a Bears game against the Los Angeles Rams in September and supported her husband throughout the season. Owens, in turn, has celebrated her achievements in meaningful ways. In a recent game against the Packers, Owens performed a gymnastics-inspired celebration after forcing a fumble, paying tribute to his wife’s iconic routines.
Thanksgiving, however, marks a rare private moment for the couple. Biles shared that they plan to keep the celebration low-key, enlisting a chef to prepare their meal instead of cooking themselves. Although some of Owens’ teammates might join them, the focus will be on enjoying their time together.
While Biles’ decision to spend $10,000 on private travel for love has sparked debate, it underscores the importance she places on her relationship. For her and Owens, moments like these are worth the investment, allowing them to cherish the holiday season amidst their busy lives.