Is it permissible for an institution to provide transportation from a non-nearest airport for a prospective student-athlete's initial arrival?

An institution is not permitted to provide transportation from a non-nearest airport for a prospective student-athlete's initial arrival. The NCAA guidelines specify that such transportation must be limited to the nearest airport to ensure that the recruitment process remains fair and compliant. Allowing transportation from a non-nearest airport could lead to an inequitable recruitment process, where some prospective athletes might receive more advantageous treatment based on their travel arrangements, which could violate NCAA rules designed to maintain a level playing field among institutions. By adhering to the rule that only the nearest airport can be used for arranging travel, the integrity of the recruitment process is upheld.