Delta Air Lines has announced it will add two new Mediterranean destinations to its global network: Sardinia and Malta. Direct flights from New York’s JFK Airport will begin in May and June 2026, respectively. The selection was made through the innovative Route Race competition, which involved both SkyMiles members and airline employees.
For the first time in Delta’s history, two of its most important communities had the opportunity to decide the company’s direction. The voting was intense: more than 150,000 people cast their preference in just five days. The result was split, with members choosing Sardinia and employees voting for Malta. The airline decided to reward both, adding both islands to its route map.
Operational Details from New York-JFK
- Sardinia: Flights operated on Boeing 767-300ER aircraft starting May 20, 2026, with four weekly frequencies.
- Malta: Service begins on June 7, 2026, with three weekly frequencies on Boeing 767-300ER aircraft.
Both routes will feature Delta’s four travel experiences: Delta One, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort+, and Main Cabin. Delta One customers will enjoy lie-flat seats, chef-curated menus, Missoni amenity kits, and Taittinger champagne. Furthermore, all passengers will have access to Delta Studio entertainment and fast, free Wi-Fi thanks to Delta Sync and T-Mobile.
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Before departure, Delta One travelers can relax in the exclusive Delta One Lounge at JFK, a space featuring top-tier dining, premium beverages, and an environment designed to make a difference from the very start of the journey.
Launch Promotions
To celebrate the new additions, Delta launched special fares to both islands, available for a limited time, aiming to stimulate advance demand for these exclusive summer destinations.
Transatlantic Expansion Strategy
With over 300 destinations in its global network, Delta continues to solidify its position as the U.S. airline with the largest presence in Italy, where it already flies to Rome, Milan, Venice, Naples, and Catania. The addition of Sardinia and Malta represents another step in its record expansion across the Atlantic, strengthening its proposition to connect travelers with Europe’s most sought-after cities.
Paul Baldoni, Senior Vice President of Network Planning, emphasized: “We can say our network is not only built for our most loyal customers but also by them.”
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