Ensuring 11,000 athletes from more than 200 countries descend on one city over 16 days is a logistical challenge at the best of times. Now consider doing it during a pandemic that’s upended airlines’ flight schedules, closed international borders and made any movement without vaccinations and multiple COVID-19 tests impossible.
For hundreds of Olympic organizing officials eyeing the start of the Tokyo Games in just 18 days, it’s a major headache. Forget about medal tallies and post-race parties (to the limited extent they’re permitted at all), just getting to Japan on time is half the battle.
For example, take Fiji, a tiny South Pacific island nation best known for its pristine beaches and tropical seas. The Fijian men's and women's Rugby Sevens — plus a handful of swimmers, sailors and other athletes — aren't flying coach so much as cargo. From Nadi to Narita, Team Fiji will fly on a service that generally transports express mail and chilled seafood like tuna and mahimahi.
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