Key Moments
- Delta Air Lines will introduce nonstop New York flights to Malta and Sardinia in 2026, aiming to expand transatlantic connectivity.
- The “Route Race” program allowed SkyMiles members and Delta employees to select Malta and Sardinia as featured new destinations.
- Malta’s gaming sector accounted for just under 7 percent of national GVA, contributing approximately €1.4 billion, according to the Malta Gaming Authority.
Delta Strengthens Transatlantic Network
Delta Air Lines has revealed plans to launch direct flights from New York to Malta and Sardinia in 2026. This expansion is designed to bolster the airline’s transatlantic portfolio and further integrate two prominent gaming destinations into its network. With these routes, the company seeks to reinforce business, tourism, and the broader economic ties between the United States, Malta, and Sardinia.
Delta Air Lines is considering new Europe destinations:
• Ibiza, Spain (IBZ)
• Olbia, Italy (OLB)
• Malta (MLA)Delta is allowing SkyMiles Members to vote on which destination begins in Summer 2026. pic.twitter.com/3fUKya0mHy
— Ishrion Aviation (@IshrionA) August 20, 2025
Route Race Determines New Destinations
The destinations were selected through Delta’s first “Route Race,” an initiative allowing both SkyMiles loyalty members and Delta employees to vote on potential new routes. Sardinia emerged as the top choice among SkyMiles members, while Delta staff favored Malta. As a result, these two cities will feature in Delta’s future route map.
Flight Schedule Announced for 2026
| Destination | Start Date | Weekly Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Sardinia | May 2026 | 4 |
| Malta | June 2026 | 3 |
Milestone for Malta’s Air Connectivity and Gaming Sector
For Malta, the new link signifies the first direct scheduled service to the United States operated by an American airline. Alan Borg, CEO of Malta International Airport, described the milestone as “historic” and aligned with long-term goals for high-quality tourism. Dr. Ian Borg, Malta’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, said it marks a “landmark” moment in strengthening ties between Malta and the United States, broadening the scope of social, cultural, and economic collaboration.
Malta, recognized as a global center for the gaming industry, has transitioned from a focus on business-to-consumer online gambling to a hub for business-to-business services, a change driven by regulatory support. The Malta Gaming Authority reported that gaming contributed just under 7 percent to the nation’s Gross Value Added, totaling roughly €1.4 billion.
Sardinia Gains New Direct Access to the U.S.
Sardinia, Italy’s second-largest island, offers travelers a unique setting known for its “Blue Zone” status and quality of life. The introduction of direct flights from New York to Olbia has been welcomed locally as having both historic and strategic importance. Silvio Pippobello, CEO of Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport, highlighted that the route places Sardinia on the world stage and stimulates opportunities for tourism and economic advancement. Pippobello added that Sardinian residents will now have direct access to the United States, reinforcing links with a vital international market.
Industry Gatherings and Upcoming Events
SiGMA Central Europe is scheduled for 03–06 November 2025 in Rome, bringing together 30,000 industry leaders to engage in the future of iGaming at an event billed as the “mother of all conferences.”
- Author
Daniel Williams
