Delta Air Lines, a major player in the global aviation industry, has strategically invested in equity stakes of other airlines to bolster its market presence and financial performance. Among these investments are significant stakes in Virgin Atlantic and Air France-KLM, both members of the SkyTeam alliance.
The North Atlantic market has been particularly lucrative for Delta due to high demand for premium services on routes connecting major hubs. Facilities like Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, London Heathrow Airport, and Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport have become crucial destinations for Delta's premium offerings.
Delta's financial success over the past 15 years has enabled it to make bold investments. The airline has outperformed competitors such as American Airlines and United Airlines, offering better returns to investors. This financial strength allowed Delta to pursue growth through nontraditional means, including fleet expansion with fuel-efficient aircraft like the Airbus A330neo and A350.