Flights to Sardinia’s Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport will begin May 20, 2026, operating 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 (with lie-flat seats), Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort+, and Main Cabin.
Delta One passengers departing from JFK can access the recently opened Delta One Lounge at New York-JFK before their flight. The lounge offers dining options and amenities designed for premium travelers.
The expansion strengthens Delta’s presence in Italy—where it already flies to Rome, Milan, Venice, Naples, and Catania—and adds a direct link between the United States and Malta for the first time operated by a U.S. carrier.
Silvio Pippobello, CEO of Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (Geasar S.p.A.), commented on the development: “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—added: “This is a landmark development for the Maltese Islands,and for the long-standing ties between Maltaandthe US.It strengthensourtourism potential inthe North American market,to attract discerning tourists who can truly appreciateMalta’suniqueandauthentic travel experiences.It also empowersmore social,culturalandeconomic collaborations betweennations.”
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