Delta Air Lines will add two new Mediterranean destinations to its network in summer 2026, following a unique selection process that allowed both SkyMiles Members and Delta employees to vote on the next European route. Sardinia was chosen by SkyMiles Members, while Malta received the most votes from Delta employees. As a result, both islands will be served with new nonstop flights from New York-JFK.
The voting process, called the Route Race, included Sardinia, Malta, and Ibiza as options. Nearly 150,000 people participated over five days. The outcome led Delta to expand its offerings by launching routes to both winning destinations.
“We are continuing to add more choice and unique destinations for our SkyMiles members with new service to Malta and Sardinia, two destinations previously unserved from the U.S.” said Paul Baldoni, senior vice president network planning. “We can now say that our network is not just built for our most loyal customers, but by them.”
Flights to Sardinia’s Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport will begin May 20, 2026 and operate four times weekly. Service to Malta International Airport starts June 7, 2026 with three weekly flights. Both routes will use Boeing 767-300ER aircraft and offer four cabin classes: Delta One, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort+, and Main Cabin. Passengers traveling in Delta One will have access to lie-flat seats and chef-curated meals.
Sardinia is recognized as one of the world’s five official Blue Zones—areas where residents often live past 100 years due to healthy lifestyles centered on food and community ties. Malta is noted for its historic sites such as megalithic temples older than Stonehenge and Egypt’s pyramids.
Silvio Pippobello, CEO of Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (Geasar S.p.A.), said: “The launch of the nonstop Olbia–New York JFK route, operated by Delta Air Lines, one of the world’s largest and most important carriers, marks a historic and strategic milestone for our Island. With this flight, Sardinia takes a significant step forward, establishing itself on the global stage and opening new opportunities for tourism and economic growth. At the same time, Sardinian residents will have the chance to fly directly to the United States, strengthening the bond between our community and one of the most relevant international markets. This achievement has been made possible thanks to the constant support of the Sardinia Region, aviation authorities, local administrations, as well as trade associations and all tourism stakeholders who have believed in this project throughout its more than two-year development. To Delta Air Lines, we extend our sincere appreciation for embracing this challenge, for which we assure our strongest and most concrete cooperation.”
Alan Borg, CEO of Malta International Airport said: “The launch of a direct route between Malta and New York by Delta marks a historic milestone for our islands and for Malta International Airport. As the first scheduled transatlantic service from Malta operated by a US carrier, this landmark development not only strengthens our route network and widens our global reach significantly but also aligns with the Malta Tourism Authority’s long-term vision to attract quality tourism to our islands. Linking our islands directly with the Big Apple opens exciting opportunities for tourism and business between Malta and the US while further showcasing Malta’s attractiveness as a vibrant year-round destination.”
Dr. Ian Borg, Malta’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism said: “This is a landmark development for the Maltese Islands,and for the long-standing ties between Malta and the US.It strengthens our tourism potential in the North American market,to attract discerning tourists who can truly appreciate Malta’s uniqueand authentic travel experiences.It also empowers more social,culturaland economic collaborations betweenour nations.”
Delta continues its expansion across Europe; it already serves several Italian cities including Rome,Milan,V enice,Naples,and Catania,making it currentlythe largest U.S.carrier serving Italy.
