VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Delta Air Lines has announced that Malta will become its newest Mediterranean destination, with direct flights from New York commencing on 7 June 2026. The service represents the first scheduled transatlantic route to Malta operated by a United States carrier. T

he decision follows Delta’s “Route Race,” a vote involving nearly 150,000 employees and SkyMiles members. While loyalty programme members favoured Sardinia, employees voted overwhelmingly for Malta, leading the airline to include both destinations in its network. Flights will operate three times a week from John F. Kennedy International Airport to Malta International Airport using Boeing 767-300ER aircraft. Four cabin classes will be available, including the premium Delta One® suite.

The seasonal service is scheduled to run from June to October. In 2023, around 55,000 American tourists visited Malta, all requiring connecting flights through European hubs. Officials said the new route addresses a long-standing objective to improve direct access from North America. Allan Borg, chief executive of Malta International Airport, described the development as a “historic milestone” that aligns with the country’s tourism strategy.

Deputy Prime Minister and Tourism Minister Ian Borg stated that the route would “strengthen tourism potential in the North American market” and enhance cultural and economic cooperation. The Ministry for Tourism said the initiative forms part of a broader effort to attract higher value-added tourism. The Malta Tourism Authority will allocate additional funds to promote cultural, heritage, religious, military, art, and culinary tourism, re-directing budgets previously used for summer event sponsorships.

– photo IPA Agency –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews