Delta Announces Non-Stop Flight to Malta for First Time

Delta Air Lines has announced Malta as one of its newest European destinations, launching direct flights from New York-JFK starting June 7, 2026. This marks the first direct scheduled transatlantic service from Malta to the United States, operated by a US carrier. The announcement follows a voting competition where Delta employees overwhelmingly voted Malta as their preferred destination, representing a historic milestone for the Mediterranean island's international connectivity.

The Delta announcement comes as Malta's aviation industry experiences unprecedented growth. Malta International Airport welcomed 8.96 million passengers in 2024, a 14.8% year-on-year increase, and forecasts 9.7 million by 2025, nearly double 2014 levels. The airport now connects to 109 destinations, establishing Malta as a significant European aviation player.

Strategic airline partnerships have driven this success, particularly with Ryanair, Malta's largest carrier since 2016. Prime Minister Robert Abela recently inaugurated Ryanair's new Malta offices, creating 70 high-quality jobs and bringing the company's local workforce on the island to over 500 professionals. This winter, Ryanair will base an additional B737 aircraft in Malta, which brings the total to nine vehicles, representing a further $100 million investment.

The aviation sector now contributes over €600 million to Malta's economy and sustains thousands of jobs. Over 900 aircraft are listed in Malta’s aircraft registry, twice as many as five years ago according to the Maltese Transport Minister Chris Bonett.

Responding to Delta’s announcement, Malta International Airport CEO Alan Borg called it "a historic milestone" that "strengthens our route network and widens our global reach significantly." The route positions Malta alongside Delta's existing Italian destinations while opening new opportunities for North American tourism.

Deputy Prime Minister Dr Ian Borg emphasised the significance, saying "this strengthens our tourism potential in the North American market, to attract discerning tourists who can truly appreciate Malta's unique and authentic travel experiences." It also could not come at a better time with the Malta Tourism Authority recently opening a new office in New York City as it continues to strengthen the island’s presence in the North American market.

Malta's transformation from niche destination to major Mediterranean aviation hub reflects strategic partnerships, infrastructure investment, and the island's growing appeal as both a business and leisure destination.