Delta Air Lines to launch first-ever direct US flights to Malta and Sardinia

Delta Air Lines will next summer fly to a pair of idyllic Mediterranean islands, thanks to customers who voted in a recent poll.

A "route race" recently saw 150,000 votes cast by Delta staff and customers over five days, to decide on new destinations, and, the two top choices were Sardinia and Malta.

Delta will now launch nonstop summer services from New York–JFK in 2026.

The American airline said the Sardinia service, from JFK to Olbia, would start from 20 May 2026, and would run four times weekly, whilst the Malta flights would begin from 7 June, three times weekly.

Flights will operate on Boeing 767-300ER aircraft and will offer Delta One, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort, and Main Cabin ticketing.

“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 US," said Paul Baldoni, senior vice president for network planning.

Alan Borg, CEO of Malta International Airport, highlighted that it will be he first scheduled transatlantic service from Malta operated by a US carrier, and, said it will be a historic milestone.

"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,” Borg said.

Elsewhere, Silvio Pippobello, CEO of Sardinia's Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport, added: "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."

Delta is launching the new summer routes with introductory pricing, which you can explore here.