Delta Air Lines, the world’s second-largest airline by aircraft movements, has announced the launch of **17 new international routes** starting in the final quarter of **2025**. This expansion, which includes both newly introduced and reintroduced services, will take place between **October and December** of that year. Notably, none of these routes have been in operation since **2021**, marking a significant step in Delta’s recovery and growth strategy.
Long-Haul Routes from Atlanta
Among the new services, five long-haul routes will connect the United States to various international destinations. Most of these routes will depart from **Atlanta**, recognized as the busiest airport in the world by passenger traffic and Delta’s primary hub. Approximately **79%** of flights from Atlanta are operated by Delta, emphasizing the airline’s dominance in this market.
The long-haul routes include:
– **Atlanta to Marrakech**: Commencing on **October 25**, this route will initially operate three times weekly, increasing to daily flights around the Christmas period. This service marks Delta as the second U.S. carrier, after United Airlines, to fly into Marrakech, a city that previously lacked direct North American connections until **2024**.
– **Atlanta to Berlin**: Set to launch on **November 5**, this route will facilitate travel for fans attending the NFL game between the Atlanta Falcons and the Indianapolis Colts in Germany. The service will return on **November 10** and **11**.
– **Atlanta to Accra**: Delta will resume daily flights to Accra starting **December 1**, having previously operated this route between **2010 and 2012**.
– **Los Angeles to Melbourne**: On **December 3**, Delta will introduce its first-ever service to Melbourne, operating three times weekly.
– **Salt Lake City to Lima**: Launching on **December 4**, this will be Delta’s inaugural route to South America from Utah.
Short-Haul Services for Winter Travel
In addition to the long-haul routes, Delta plans to introduce **12 short-haul routes** on **December 20**. These routes are strategically timed to coincide with the holiday travel season. While many of these destinations were previously served prior to the pandemic, the route from **New York JFK to Grand Cayman** is particularly noteworthy, as it has not been operational for nearly nine years.
Key short-haul routes include:
– **Austin to Cancun**: Daily flights will commence, marking a new destination for Delta.
– **Detroit to Liberia, Costa Rica**: This route will operate weekly, providing a new connection to a popular travel hub known for its beaches and rainforests.
– **Indianapolis to Cancun**, **Kansas City to Cancun**, and **Nashville to Cancun**: These routes will also resume, adding to Delta’s growing presence in the Mexican resort market.
Delta’s increased focus on Cancun is evident as the airline prepares for **186 departures** scheduled between **December 20 and 26**, with as many as **30 daily services**. This expansion will solidify Delta’s position as a key player in the U.S.-Cancun market, raising its share from **17%** to **19%**.
According to the **U.S. Department of Transportation**, Delta’s renewed services reflect a broader trend in the aviation industry as airlines adapt to changing travel demands post-pandemic. With these new routes, Delta aims to enhance connectivity and provide passengers with more options for international travel, particularly during the busy holiday season.
