Delta Adds Sardinia and Malta to Its Network

Delta to Launch New Routes to Sardinia and Malta in Summer 2026

For the first time, Delta SkyMiles Members and Delta employees selected the airline’s next European destinations. Through a five-day “Route Race” voting process, nearly 150,000 participants helped shape the airline’s network. SkyMiles Members chose Sardinia, while employees selected Malta, and Delta will add both islands to its schedule in Summer 2026.

Introductory fares to Sardinia and Malta are now available for a limited time.

About the Route Race

The Route Race invited Delta customers and employees to participate in choosing new destinations. Sardinia, Malta, and Ibiza were shortlisted, with Sardinia receiving the most votes from Members and Malta from employees. Delta responded by adding both destinations to its network, turning the votes into two new nonstop routes.

Sardinia

Known for its natural landscapes, coastline, and cultural heritage, Sardinia offers a combination of outdoor activities, historical sites, and local cuisine. The island is also recognized as one of the world’s Blue Zones, where residents enjoy long, healthy lives supported by active lifestyles and strong community ties.

Malta

Malta combines historical landmarks, coastal scenery, and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore UNESCO-listed Valletta, ancient temples, and fortresses, or sail to bays such as the Blue Lagoon. Malta’s heritage reflects centuries of influence and makes it a distinctive Mediterranean destination.

Flights from New York-JFK

Service to Sardinia will begin May 20, 2026, operating four times weekly. Service to Malta will begin June 7, 2026, operating three times weekly. Both routes will use Boeing 767-300ER aircraft. Customers will have access to Delta One®, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort+, and Main Cabin, along with curated dining, entertainment, and free Delta Sync Wi-Fi presented by T-Mobile.

From JFK, Delta One customers can enjoy the Delta One Lounge before departure, setting the tone for their journey.

Connecting More of the World

With Sardinia joining the schedule, Delta expands its existing presence in Italy, adding to its current service to Rome, Milan, Venice, Naples, and Catania. Malta will become a new gateway to the Mediterranean from the U.S., further broadening Delta’s transatlantic network.

Local Perspectives

Silvio Pippobello, CEO of Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (Geasar S.p.A.), noted that the nonstop Olbia–New York JFK route represents an important step for Sardinia, opening opportunities for tourism and economic links with the U.S.

Alan Borg, CEO of Malta International Airport, stated that Delta’s direct Malta–New York route strengthens Malta’s connectivity with North America and supports the Malta Tourism Authority’s vision to attract quality tourism.

Dr. Ian Borg, Malta’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, said the new route strengthens tourism and economic ties between Malta and the U.S.