Delta apre OLB-JFK da maggio 2026


Ormai Olbia è lanciatissima a livello IC, già oggi c’è il diretto per DXB
 
La due nuove rotte sono state scelte nei giorni scorsi da un sondaggio tra i clienti Skymiles e il personale Delta, erano candidate 3 destinazioni: Olbia, Malta e Ibiza. Le due piu' votate sono state Olbia e Malta che vengono aperte entrambe: Olbia 4x week e Malta 3x week.

Isle take two: Sardinia and Malta chosen as Delta’s newest island destinations​

Delta adds two Mediterranean escapes after its Route Race vote—one chosen by its Members, one by its people— bringing new nonstop service to Sardinia and Malta from New York-JFK (JFK) starting Summer 2026.

For the first time in Delta history, SkyMiles Members and Delta employees had the power to decide which new European destination would join the airline’s global network. Thousands of votes were cast, but the winners were split, with Members choosing Sardinia and employees choosing Malta. That’s why both islands will join Delta’s map in Summer 2026.
To celebrate, Delta is offering introductory deals to both Sardinia and Malta, available now for a limited-time.

A first-of-its-kind Route Race

The Route Race invited SkyMiles Members and Delta people to shape the airline’s network in a way no other airline has done before. Sardinia, Malta and Ibiza each lined up on the starting line, and over five days of spirited voting, nearly 150K people made their voices heard.

The results were tight: SkyMiles Members gave Sardinia the edge, while Delta employees crowned Malta their favorite. With both destinations ranking at the top for two of its most important communities, Delta chose to add both to its map, turning these votes into two new summer getaways.

“We are continuing to add more choice and unique destinations for our SkyMiles members with new service to Malta and Sardinia, two destinations previously unserved from the U.S.” said Paul Baldoni, senior vice president network planning. “We can now say that our network is not just built for our most loyal customers, but by them.” 

Sardinia: The island that blends beauty and tradition

Sardinia didn’t just win the Route Race with Members, it won over imaginations. Think mornings spent hiking rugged cliffs, afternoons diving into turquoise coves, and evenings of handmade pasta paired with Cannonau wine under the stars. This is the rhythm of life that thousands voted for, and soon, it’s one Delta customers can experience nonstop firsthand.

More than just stunning scenery, Sardinia is one of the world’s five official Blue Zones, where people often live past 100, thanks to a lifestyle that blends good food, active living and strong community ties. It’s a place where history whispers from ancient ruins, coastlines stretch for miles, and every meal feels like a celebration.

Malta: The island that blends history and sun

Malta feels like a living storybook. One day, travelers can wander the UNESCO-listed streets of Valletta or explore fortresses that have stood for centuries. The next, they’re sailing across turquoise bays toward the Blue Lagoon. It’s a destination that combines history, culture and relaxation in equal measure.

Malta is also home to megalithic temples older than Stonehenge and Egypt’s pyramids, making it one of the world’s most fascinating cultural crossroads. From diving shipwrecks to watching the sunset from Dingli Cliffs, every corner of Malta offers a new story to tell.

JFK: Your gateway to Sardinia and Malta

The journey begins from New York-JFK, where Delta One® customers can enjoy the Delta One Lounge at JFK before takeoff – its tranquil space, gourmet dining, premium beverages and attentive service sets the tone for what‘s ahead.
From there, customers will have their choice of these two Mediterranean options on the Boeing 767-300ER, with service to Sardinia beginning May 20, 2026, operating four times weekly, and service to Malta beginning June 7, 2026, with three weekly flights.
On both routes, customers will enjoy four product experiences: Delta One®, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort and Delta Main. Delta One® customers enjoy lie-flat seats, chef-curated meals and exclusive Missoni-designed amenities, paired with Taittinger champagne, renowned for its exceptional and consistent quality. Across all products, customers benefit from curated dining and Delta Studio entertainment, and SkyMiles Members can enjoy fast, free Delta Sync Wi-Fi presented by T-Mobile. An experience designed with intention making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.

Connecting more of the world

Flying to 300+ destinations and still growing, Delta continues to expand its global network to connect travelers with the world’s most sought-after cities. With Sardinia joining the schedule in Summer 2026, Delta strengthens its leading position as the largest U.S. carrier to Italy, where it already serves Rome, Milan, Venice, Naples, and Catania, while also adding Malta as a new gateway to the Mediterranean.
These routes mark the next chapter in Delta’s record-setting trans-Atlantic expansion, bringing customers even closer to the European destinations they love most.

Local Official Quotes

Silvio Pippobello, CEO of Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (Geasar S.p.A.) said, “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 and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism said, “This is a landmark development for the Maltese Islands, and for the long-standing ties between Malta and the US. It 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 empowers more social, cultural and economic collaborations between our nations.”

 
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Delta Adds New York JFK – Malta / Olbia in 2Q26​

Delta today (16SEP25) announced the launch of 2 Trans-Atlantic routes from New York JFK, with nonstop service to Malta and Sardinia (Olbia), scheduled in the second quarter of 2026.

New York JFK – Malta eff 07JUN26 3 weekly 767-300ER
DL148 JFK1700 – 0820+1MLA 76W 357
DL149 MLA1020 – 1450JFK 76W 146

The launch of this service marks the return of nonstop service for the first time in 39 years on regular scheduled basis (excluding charter), as Balkan Bulgarian Airlines previously served Sofia – Malta – New York JFK route between October 1995 and October 1997 (along with nonstop Sofia – New York). Air Malta briefly served Malta – Shannon – New York JFK in summer 2000 season with Boeing 757.

New York JFK – Olbia eff 20MAY26 4 weekly 767-300ER
DL216 JFK1825 – 0900+1OLB 76W x246
DL217 OLB1100 – 1435JFK 76W x357

aeroroutes.com
 
La due nuove rotte sono state scelte nei giorni scorsi da un sondaggio tra i clienti Skymiles e il personale Delta, erano candidate 3 destinazioni: Olbia, Malta e Ibiza. Le due piu' votate sono state Olbia e Malta che vengono aperte entrambe: Olbia 4x week e Malta 3x week.

Isle take two: Sardinia and Malta chosen as Delta’s newest island destinations​

Delta adds two Mediterranean escapes after its Route Race vote—one chosen by its Members, one by its people— bringing new nonstop service to Sardinia and Malta from New York-JFK (JFK) starting Summer 2026.

For the first time in Delta history, SkyMiles Members and Delta employees had the power to decide which new European destination would join the airline’s global network. Thousands of votes were cast, but the winners were split, with Members choosing Sardinia and employees choosing Malta. That’s why both islands will join Delta’s map in Summer 2026.
To celebrate, Delta is offering introductory deals to both Sardinia and Malta, available now for a limited-time.

A first-of-its-kind Route Race

The Route Race invited SkyMiles Members and Delta people to shape the airline’s network in a way no other airline has done before. Sardinia, Malta and Ibiza each lined up on the starting line, and over five days of spirited voting, nearly 150K people made their voices heard.

The results were tight: SkyMiles Members gave Sardinia the edge, while Delta employees crowned Malta their favorite. With both destinations ranking at the top for two of its most important communities, Delta chose to add both to its map, turning these votes into two new summer getaways.

“We are continuing to add more choice and unique destinations for our SkyMiles members with new service to Malta and Sardinia, two destinations previously unserved from the U.S.” said Paul Baldoni, senior vice president network planning. “We can now say that our network is not just built for our most loyal customers, but by them.” 

Sardinia: The island that blends beauty and tradition

Sardinia didn’t just win the Route Race with Members, it won over imaginations. Think mornings spent hiking rugged cliffs, afternoons diving into turquoise coves, and evenings of handmade pasta paired with Cannonau wine under the stars. This is the rhythm of life that thousands voted for, and soon, it’s one Delta customers can experience nonstop firsthand.

More than just stunning scenery, Sardinia is one of the world’s five official Blue Zones, where people often live past 100, thanks to a lifestyle that blends good food, active living and strong community ties. It’s a place where history whispers from ancient ruins, coastlines stretch for miles, and every meal feels like a celebration.

Malta: The island that blends history and sun

Malta feels like a living storybook. One day, travelers can wander the UNESCO-listed streets of Valletta or explore fortresses that have stood for centuries. The next, they’re sailing across turquoise bays toward the Blue Lagoon. It’s a destination that combines history, culture and relaxation in equal measure.

Malta is also home to megalithic temples older than Stonehenge and Egypt’s pyramids, making it one of the world’s most fascinating cultural crossroads. From diving shipwrecks to watching the sunset from Dingli Cliffs, every corner of Malta offers a new story to tell.

JFK: Your gateway to Sardinia and Malta

The journey begins from New York-JFK, where Delta One® customers can enjoy the Delta One Lounge at JFK before takeoff – its tranquil space, gourmet dining, premium beverages and attentive service sets the tone for what‘s ahead.
From there, customers will have their choice of these two Mediterranean options on the Boeing 767-300ER, with service to Sardinia beginning May 20, 2026, operating four times weekly, and service to Malta beginning June 7, 2026, with three weekly flights.
On both routes, customers will enjoy four product experiences: Delta One®, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort and Delta Main. Delta One® customers enjoy lie-flat seats, chef-curated meals and exclusive Missoni-designed amenities, paired with Taittinger champagne, renowned for its exceptional and consistent quality. Across all products, customers benefit from curated dining and Delta Studio entertainment, and SkyMiles Members can enjoy fast, free Delta Sync Wi-Fi presented by T-Mobile. An experience designed with intention making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.

Connecting more of the world

Flying to 300+ destinations and still growing, Delta continues to expand its global network to connect travelers with the world’s most sought-after cities. With Sardinia joining the schedule in Summer 2026, Delta strengthens its leading position as the largest U.S. carrier to Italy, where it already serves Rome, Milan, Venice, Naples, and Catania, while also adding Malta as a new gateway to the Mediterranean.
These routes mark the next chapter in Delta’s record-setting trans-Atlantic expansion, bringing customers even closer to the European destinations they love most.

Local Official Quotes

Silvio Pippobello, CEO of Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (Geasar S.p.A.) said, “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 and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism said, “This is a landmark development for the Maltese Islands, and for the long-standing ties between Malta and the US. It 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 empowers more social, cultural and economic collaborations between our nations.”

Mi tocca rivalutare le freccette e il nostro totorotte
 
Sono solo io a pensare che il sondaggio sia 'farlocco'? La 'route race' concludeva a fine agosto, la rotta è stata annunciata meno di due settimane dopo.
 
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Sono solo io a pensare che il sondaggio sia 'farlocco'? La 'route race' concludeva a fine agosto, la rotta è stata annunciata meno di due settimane dopo.

E' presumibile che abbiano studiato prima quali rotte potessero essere aperte, OLB, per sentito dire abbastanza frequente e per quel poco che ho potuto vedere di persona, ha implementato parecchio il turismo USA, quindi ci sta che possa essere fatto un test per vedere se rende. MLA potrebbe avere un appeal simile, mentre Ibiza la conosco solo come mèta per gli sfasciati di ogni tipo di sostanza illecita, quindi il mio punto di vista è prevenuto. Non dimentichiamo, in ogni caso, il peso crocieristico delle tre mete.
Alternare il servizio su OLB/MLA mi sembra essere un buon compromesso per vedere quale delle due possa rendere meglio, la mia curiosità è più vedere se e quanto investono a livello pubblicitario al di qua dell'Atlantico per attrarre traffico originante anche da questa parte.
Circa la bontà del sondaggio, considerato che era rivolto ai clienti fidelizzati, può anche non essere stato "pilotato".
 
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Tutto molto bello, ma non vorrei che fosse l'ennesimo spreco di denaro pubblico della RAS. Olbia-NYC è infatti una delle rotte previste da questo bando allucinante (https://www.regione.sardegna.it/not...gnie-avranno-60-giorni-per-presentare-domanda) che prevede anche un CAG-NYC, CAG-PHL e voli interni in sardegna. Il bando si è chiuso il 28 agosto (https://www.ansa.it/sardegna/notizi...gna_c72eb1bd-81eb-41fd-a793-f34619872962.html) e devo dire che il timing mi sembra un po' sospetto, e quindi anche la veridicità di quel "sondaggio". Inoltre Wizz ha da poco annunciato l'apertura della AHO-WMI dalla prossima summer, un'altra delle rotte incluse nel bando. Per ora non abbiamo prove di eventuali condizioni di favore concesse dalla Regione a Delta e Wizz (nel bando si parla un "contributo fino al 50% dei costi aeroportuali"), però il sospetto rimane ecco.
 
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Mi stavo domandando perché i dipendenti abbiano scelto Malta, poi la folgorazione: a Olbia non c'è Victoria, a Malta si. L'acquisto di mutande è salvo.😎
 
Ma la JFK-OLB è in continuità?
Se un sardo vuole andarsi a curare a Niu Iork, perché deve pagare il prezzo di mercato??!?11'1?!!!?
 
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A parte le battute, non escludo una erogazione di contributi di incentivazione per l'apertura della rotta (se lo ha fatto MIA all'epoca della MXP/MIA aperta da AZ, non vedo perchè non possa farlo OLB).
 
Cosa che, peraltro, potrebbe aver fatto anche il governo maltese: https://timesofmalta.com/article/delta-airlines-operate-maltanew-york-flights-june.1116317

[...]
“This is the game-changer that we have been working to attain for the last year," he said, adding that it was an "affirmation of the synergy" between Malta's tourism and aviation authorities, the Malta International Airport, and the Foreign Ministry, including "crucial talks" held in Washington earlier this month.
[...]
Borg said the Malta Tourism Authority will allocate extra funding to support this direct transatlantic flight. It would be re-allocating budgets previously earmarked for sponsorship of music events in summer, to the promotion of culture tourism and its various streams - including religious tourism, heritage tourism, military tourism, art tourism, and culinary tourism, among other areas.
[...]
 
A parte le battute, non escludo una erogazione di contributi di incentivazione per l'apertura della rotta (se lo ha fatto MIA all'epoca della MXP/MIA aperta da AZ, non vedo perchè non possa farlo OLB).
Il problema secondo me non è che Olb faccia un'erogazione di contributi a delta, ma che lo faccia la ras, direttamente o indirettamente