EL AL and Delta Air Lines confirm new codeshare deal....

EL AL and Delta Air Lines, leading airlines in Israel and the US, are launching a new cooperation: a codeshare agreement, loyalty club rewards, and benefits that members of both clubs can enjoy. The partnership offers passengers all the benefits of both airlines, with an expanded network of routes, and a more diverse range of gateways in the United States, Canada, Mexico and throughout Latin America, all with a single ticket.

Delta customers flying from North America will be able to fly on EL AL’s nonstop services from New York-JFK, New York-Newark, Boston, Los Angeles, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale to Tel Aviv. Meanwhile, EL AL’s code will be added to Delta's non-stop Tel Aviv flights (once restored), as well as up to 280 same-day connections via Delta’s U.S. gateways in New York-JFK, Boston, and Los Angeles to destinations including Atlanta, Washington DC, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Seattle, Dallas, and Toronto.

“Delta remains steadfast in our long-time commitment to serving consumers and businesses who depend on convenient, high-quality air service to and from Tel Aviv," said Alain Bellemare, Delta President - International. "Through our codeshare agreement with EL AL, we will offer customers more convenient travel options between North America and Israel.”

“The start of this codeshare agreement between Delta Air Lines and EL AL offers customers access to convenient one-stop services from Israel to cities throughout the Americas and welcomes new North American customers to EL AL's world class service to and from Tel Aviv,” said Shlomi Zafrany, EL AL V.P. - Commerical and Industry Affairs.

“We are proud on this cooperation with Delta whom I see as a valued long-term partner,” said Dina Ben Tal Ganancia, EL AL CEO.

Delta and EL AL customers will be able to earn and redeem miles on each other’s services on Delta’s SkyMiles and EL AL’s Matmid frequent flyer programs. Effective Jan. 15, both airlines will offer reciprocal benefits to their top tier frequent flyer members like preferred seat access, priority check-in and boarding, additional baggage allowance, and lounge access (where applicable).

It should be noted that Delta has cancelled flights between the U.S. and Tel Aviv because of ongoing conflict in the region.  The carrier advised it was continuously monitoring the security environment in Israel to inform cancellations to the flight schedule to and from Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv. 

Delta flights between TLV and New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)  will continue to be cancelled until March 29, 2024. Delta in October suspended booking for TLV flights to and from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and Boston Logan International Airport (BOS); those services remain suspended.

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Delta expands Digital ID program to LAX, LGA and JFK for touchless airport experience.

Digital ID, Delta’s time-saving, industry-first technology that allows customers to check bags and move through security without showing a physical government ID, is growing its presence with expansion to three major hubs.

Delta customers in LAX, LGA and JFK now have a quicker way to move through the airport – just in time for holiday travel.  

Debuted in 2021 at the airline’s Detroit and Atlanta hubs, Delta Digital ID provides customers with a seamless, hands-free way to navigate the airport. Now, this industry-leading technology — developed in close partnership with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) — is expanding to three key coastal hubs.  

Delta Digital ID uses biometric facial matching to eliminate the need for an agent-facilitated document check, allowing customers to move through bag drop and security checkpoints with more convenience and ease. This completely optional technology is eligible to customers who: 

Have a TSA PreCheck® membership 

Have passport information and a Known Traveler Number stored in their Delta profile  

Have a (free) SkyMiles membership 

Have the Fly Delta app 

How to opt in to Delta Digital. 

Eligible customers will receive a notification in their Fly Delta app when travelling from a Digital ID-enabled airport: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL); Detroit Metro Airport (DTW); Los Angeles International Airport (LAX); LaGuardia Airport (LGA); and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK, launching Dec. 14). Once opted in, Delta Digital ID becomes part of a customer’s SkyMiles profile, though they may choose to opt-out at any time. Delta does not save or store any biometric data. 

Eligible customers can always opt into Digital ID via their SkyMiles profile on Delta.com. A passport and/or Known Traveler Number will need to be stored in the customer’s SkyMiles profile before they’re able to opt in. 

Customers can use Delta Digital ID to check bags and move through security without having to show a physical ID (following the post-launch verification period). They will simply navigate to the appropriate line – look for the green “Delta Digital ID” icon – look into the camera at bag drop and/or the security checkpoint, and use their digital identity in place of a physical ID.  

While time savings at security lines vary according to airport volume, Delta Digital ID transactions at bag drop take an average time of 30 seconds – a near-1.5-minute time savings from the standard bag drop time of two minutes. Overall, customers using Delta Digital ID outperform other Fly Delta app users by double-digit margins in satisfaction with the check-in and security experiences. 

“We know a frictionless airport experience is integral to your satisfaction with your overall journey,” said Allison Ausband, Chief Customer Experience Officer. “With Digital ID, our customers spend less time hassling with their wallets, and our agents spend less time checking documents. It opens an opportunity for our people and our customers to genuinely connect.”  

Delta’s partners at the TSA see equal benefit in bringing this technology to more locations. “Delta Digital ID helps passengers save time and improves security effectiveness," said Austin Gould, Assistant Administrator, Requirements, Capabilities and Analysis – TSA. "It's a simpler, more convenient experience – one that strictly adheres to passenger privacy and our security protocols, as well as our mission of protecting our nation’s transportation systems.”  

While facial matching algorithms are extremely accurate, a trained agent will inspect the customer’s government-issued ID if the technology is unable to identify a customer.  

Since its implementation at ATL and DTW, Delta Digital ID’s time-saving value has proven to be highly popular, with a large majority of eligible customers opting in to the technology. That popularity will drive expansion in the coming year; as soon as January, Digital ID’s presence in Atlanta will expand to the international terminal (ATL-F).  

While Delta looks to expand the technology to additional hubs in 2024, the launch of Digital ID at LAX, LGA and JFK should be a boon to customers ahead of the busy year-end travel season. 

“Delta Digital ID provides a huge benefit in both time-savings and convenience, and we’ve been working with our partners for years to expand its reach,” said Greg Forbes, Managing Director – Airport Experience. “We’re thrilled to bring this technology to a whole new subset of our customer base.” 

Delta to fly to Taipei from Seattle hub

Delta, Seattle’s largest global airline, will further expand its Asia network next summer with the launch of daily nonstop service from Seattle (SEA) to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) starting June 6, 2024, subject to government approval.

This marks Delta’s inaugural nonstop flight to Taipei from the U.S. and the first Delta aircraft operation to TPE since 2017 via Narita International Airport.

“This route not only opens new doors to Taipei’s captivating skyline, vibrant night markets, and rich cultural heritage, but it also marks a significant stride in enhancing Seattle's global connectivity,” said Joan Wang, Managing Director – Global Sales, Seattle. “This strategic addition to Delta's trans-Pacific portfolio is poised to make a profound impact on the Seattle market, fostering increased business and leisure travel opportunities for our discerning customers.”

Delta is marking its 90th anniversary in Seattle this December, a history that dates back to the start of operations by Northwest Airways (later Northwest Airlines) in 1933. Delta flights began on June 1, 1980, with nonstop service between SEA and Atlanta (ATL), Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) and Portland (PDX). Delta now boasts over 160 daily departures from SEA to 50 destinations worldwide. Seattle serves as a key gateway for the airline’s operations across the Pacific, which – with the addition of TPE – features four non-stop trans-Pacific destinations, inclusive of existing routes to Incheon (ICN), Tokyo (HND), and Shanghai (PVG).

“The Port of Seattle welcomes today’s announcement as Delta continues to build on SEA’s status as a hub and its west coast gateway to Asia,” said Port of Seattle Commission President Sam Cho. “With the addition of the new International Arrivals Facility (IAF) in 2022, SEA is providing a dramatic welcome to the world visiting and doing business in the Puget Sound region. We are excited Delta is demonstrating its commitment to continuing to build on that vision.”

Delta continues to restore and expand service across Asia and the Pacific outside of Seattle as well. Over the course of 2023, the airline has:

Announced a second daily flight to ICN from ATL.

Increased flights to China from four times per week to 10 times per week (seven weekly flights to PVG from SEA and three weekly flights to PVG from DTW).

Resumed service to HND from Honolulu (HNL) and Minneapolis (MSP).

Launched first-ever Auckland (AKL) from LAX service, the only U.S. carrier operating LAX-AKL year-round.

Increased flights to Sydney (SYD) from 10 weekly to 14 weekly in Winter from LAX.

Former Delta pilot threatened to shoot Captain multiple times during flight..

Jonathan Dunn a pilot with Delta Air Lines is alleged to have used a gun to “assault and intimidate” the captain of an aircraft and threatening to shoot them multiple times if the flight was diverted due to a passenger suffering a medical emergency.

Reports indicate that Dunn was indicted by a grand jury at the US District Court for the District of Utah changed with interfering with the crew of a commercial airline flight on that took place in August last year.

In a statement from the Department of Transportation Office of the Inspector General says the indictment alleges that, on or about August 22, 2022, Jonathan Dunn, the crew’s First Officer, interfered with the performance of a crew member by using a dangerous weapon to assault and intimidate the Captain. Dunn was authorized to carry a firearm through the Transportation Security Administration’s Federal Flight Deck Officer programme. The programme allows a number of commercial airline pilots and flight crew of commercial aircraft to fly with concealed weapons and act as law enforcement officers to defend the flight deck of aircraft against acts of criminal violence or air piracy.  The TSA hasn't stated how many FFDOs there are, however, the programme's budget last year was $20,751,000. 

Delta has confirmed to local media that Dunn worked for the company at the time of the incident but was no longer employed by them and has since refused to comment because of the "ongoing aviation authority investigation of this incident”.

Delta completes Concourse A expansion at Salt Lake City International Airport

Delta’s footprint at Salt Lake City International Airport continues to grow with the opening of 13 new gates on Concourse A, finishing off the gleaming 900,000-square-foot facility that first welcomed customers in September 2020. All flights operating from Concourse A will now board and deplane via jet bridges, eliminating bus operations to remote hardstands. 

Delta unveils the completion of its Concourse A expansion at Salt Lake City International Airport.

“The completion of Concourse A comes just ahead of what we anticipate will be a busy holiday and ski travel season,” said Adam Ryan, Managing Director of Delta’s SLC Operations. “It’s a privilege for the 5,400 Delta employees here in Salt Lake City to share this state-of-the-art facility with our customers as we continue to provide them with the elevated experience they have come to expect from Delta.” 

In partnership with the Salt Lake City Department of Airports, the finished eastern portion of Concourse A features 22 gates – nine of which opened earlier this summer – bringing the airlines’ gate total to 50 at SLC. This expansion also includes a new Delta Need Help Center for customers looking for travel assistance, as well as 19 new restaurants and shops for customers to enjoy.  

Delta expands Salt Lake City hub presence with opening of new gates

This summer, Delta will operate more than 230 peak-day flights from Salt Lake City to nearly 90 destinations across the globe, with added frequencies to Austin, Charlotte, Nashville, Philadelphia and more.

“These new gates and amenities will further elevate the guest experience at the Salt Lake City International Airport for Salt Lakers and visitors from all over the world,” said Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall. “Salt Lake City is proud to be a Delta hub in the West and home to one of the top-performing airports in the world. The completion of this expansion will provide efficient services and modern facilities for travellers who are eager for a seamless journey.” 

Delta operates more flights out of SLC than any other airline combined, serving close to 30,000 customers daily with 237 peak-day flights to 88 destinations in Fall 2023. The airline has invested more than $12 billion in airport projects coast-to-coast in the last 10 years, doubling down on its vision for the future of travel by building airports that are comfortable, easy to navigate and part of an effortlessly connected journey. 

Earlier this year, Delta further cemented its position as the leading global carrier in SLC with a new lease agreement with Salt Lake City that increases Delta’s gate count from 55 to 66, with an anticipated completion in 2027. In June, Delta also broke ground in Salt Lake City on a new pilot training facility, marking the first training facility investment outside of its Atlanta headquarters since 1968. 

Delta's new pilot training facility in its key Mountain West hub, Salt Lake City. The 47,000-square-foot facility marks the next chapter of Delta’s investment in its 5,400 employees and customers in Utah.  

Delta’s investment in Salt Lake City grows with new pilot training facility

Located next to Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), this 47,000-square-foot facility marks the next chapter of Delta’s investment in its 5,400 employees and customers in Utah.

Delta’s deep community footprint in Salt Lake City is evidenced by more than a dozen partnerships with local organizations. Alongside the start of the Utah Jazz regular season, last week marked the official return of the Delta Center to Salt Lake City since the naming rights partnership between the Jazz and Delta Air Lines was made official in July.  

Delta pilot said to have used gun to assault and intimidate captain over medical emergency diversion...

Jonathan Dunn a pilot with Delta Air Lines is alleged to have used a gun to “assault and intimidate” the captain of an aircraft and threatening to shoot them multiple times if the flight was diverted due to a passenger suffering a medical emergency.

Reports indicate that Dunn was indicted by a grand jury at the US District Court for the District of Utah changed with interfering with the crew of a commercial airline flight on that took place in August last year.

In a statement from the Department of Transportation Office of the Inspector General says the indictment alleges that, on or about August 22, 2022, Jonathan Dunn, the crew’s First Officer, interfered with the performance of a crew member by using a dangerous weapon to assault and intimidate the Captain. Dunn was authorized to carry a firearm through the Transportation Security Administration’s Federal Flight Deck Officer programme. The programme allows a number of commercial airline pilots and flight crew of commercial aircraft to fly with concealed weapons and act as law enforcement officers to defend the flight deck of aircraft against acts of criminal violence or air piracy.  The TSA hasn't stated how many FFDOs there are, however, the programme's budget last year was $20,751,000. 

Delta has confirmed to local media that Dunn worked for the company at the time of the incident but was no longer employed by them and has since refused to comment because of the "ongoing aviation authority investigation of this incident”.

Delta shares modifications, new benefits to SkyMiles loyalty program

Delta shared several updates to its SkyMiles Program Wednesday, modifying some of the changes announced in September and adding several new benefits.

“Over the past few weeks, many of you have shared feedback about the changes we announced to Delta’s SkyMiles Program,” Delta CEO Ed Bastian wrote in an email to customers. “It’s been a challenge to balance the growth of our membership with our need to deliver premium service experiences. We made some difficult program decisions to address this issue…. But your response made clear that the changes did not fully reflect the loyalty you have demonstrated to Delta. Based on your feedback, we are making program adjustments and adding new benefits to begin earning in 2024 toward your 2025 Status."

Here’s a rundown of the changes and new program features:

More Accessible Medallion Status Requirements

To make the requirements for achieving 2025 Medallion Status more accessible, Delta has reduced the number of Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs) for each tier:

Diamond Medallion Status: $28,000 MQDs (down from $35,000)

Platinum Medallion Status: $15,000 MQDs (down from $18,000)

Gold Medallion Status: $10,000 MQDs (down from $12,000)

Silver Medallion Status: $5,000 MQDs (down from $6,000)

Members with the Delta SkyMiles Reserve, Reserve Business, Delta SkyMiles Platinum and Platinum Business American Express Cards will also receive an MQD Headstart of $2,500 MQDs for the current Medallion Qualification Year.

Customers may earn MQDs through Delta flights, Delta Vacations packages, and purchases on the Delta SkyMiles Platinum, Platinum Business, Reserve and Reserve Business American Express Cards. Car rentals and hotel/vacation rentals booked through Delta Car Rentals and Delta Stays will not earn MQDs toward Medallion Status.1

LATAM and Delta celebrate a year of joint venture operations.

During the inaugural year of their Joint Venture, Delta and LATAM have streamlined travel and grown connections in their key hubs. The partners will continue to launch new routes and increase current routes.

One year after the start of their Joint Venture, the Delta and LATAM alliance has enabled the partners to announce six new routes, carry out 15,000 flights, transport more than 3 million customers and cover more than 56 million miles (90 million kilometres), which is equivalent to the distance between planet Earth and Mercury. 

With the mission to significantly enhance connectivity and the customer experience for travel between North America (United States and Canada) and South America (Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay), the partners are celebrating the milestone and looking to the future. 

Delta and LATAM have already launched new service between Orlando and Bogota, Colombia (LATAM); and between São Paulo and Los Angeles (LATAM), the only direct route between Brazil and the U.S. West Coast.  

On Oct. 29, the partners will launch additional new routes and increase current routes with new Medellin-Miami (LATAM) service; LATAM’s new service between Lima and Atlanta, adding to Delta’s existing service; and Delta’s second frequency between Atlanta and Bogota, adding to its existing service. The introduction of new routes continues in December, with Atlanta-Cartagena on Dec. 22 (Delta), seasonal service between New York JFK and Rio de Janeiro on Dec. 16 (Delta), and in response to growing demand, Delta’s seasonal service between Atlanta and Rio de Janeiro that returns on Dec. 16 will now operate year-round. 

"We are thrilled to mark the first anniversary of our transformative partnership," said Alex Antilla, Vice President of Latin America for Delta Air Lines. "Together, we're connecting North and South America and attracting new customers. We've worked hard together to add exciting new routes, grow existing routes, and make travel easier, more enjoyable, and more rewarding for millions of customers. As we look to the future, we continue our commitment to building on this extraordinary first year, delivering exceptional services, and reinforcing our bond with customers who travel between the two continents. We're excited to continue this incredible journey."   

Delta and LATAM celebrate their one-year Joint Venture anniversary.....

During the inaugural year of their Joint Venture, Delta and LATAM have streamlined travel and grown connections in their key hubs. The partners will continue to launch new routes and increase current routes.

One year after the start of their Joint Venture, the Delta and LATAM alliance has enabled the partners to announce six new routes, carry out 15,000 flights, transport more than 3 million customers and cover more than 56 million miles (90 million kilometres), which is equivalent to the distance between planet Earth and Mercury. 

With the mission to significantly enhance connectivity and the customer experience for travel between North America (United States and Canada) and South America (Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay), the partners are celebrating the milestone and looking to the future. 

Delta and LATAM have already launched new service between Orlando and Bogota, Colombia (LATAM); and between São Paulo and Los Angeles (LATAM), the only direct route between Brazil and the U.S. West Coast.  

On Oct. 29, the partners will launch additional new routes and increase current routes with new Medellin-Miami (LATAM) service; LATAM’s new service between Lima and Atlanta, adding to Delta’s existing service; and Delta’s second frequency between Atlanta and Bogota, adding to its existing service. The introduction of new routes continues in December, with Atlanta-Cartagena on Dec. 22 (Delta), seasonal service between New York JFK and Rio de Janeiro on Dec. 16 (Delta), and in response to growing demand, Delta’s seasonal service between Atlanta and Rio de Janeiro that returns on Dec. 16 will now operate year-round. 

"We are thrilled to mark the first anniversary of our transformative partnership," said Alex Antilla, Vice President of Latin America for Delta Air Lines. "Together, we're connecting North and South America and attracting new customers. We've worked hard together to add exciting new routes, grow existing routes, and make travel easier, more enjoyable, and more rewarding for millions of customers. As we look to the future, we continue our commitment to building on this extraordinary first year, delivering exceptional services, and reinforcing our bond with customers who travel between the two continents. We're excited to continue this incredible journey."   

Delta supports Walk for a Cure event in Accra, Ghana

Delta's support of Breast Care International (BCI) was on full display Saturday as the organization hosted its annual Walk for a Cure in Accra, Ghana. The event has grown to include thousands of participants rallying behind the cause.

Benita Ogbona mother of five children and a five-year survivor of breast cancer was one of the women who was screened at a community outreach program by Breast Care International (BCI) sponsored by Delta. 

"That day changed my life. It saved my life," said Benita Ogbona. Benita from Nungua, in the Great Accra Region of Ghana, had attended one of the events being offered by BCI in her community. A routine check discovered a small lump, and she was able to get the help and treatment she needed.

Delta has partnered with the BCI since 2016 and has funded vital work to provide breast cancer awareness and screening program in rural areas of Ghana. With Delta's support, BCI's education program have reached more than 150,000 people, while of the more than 20,000 people screened, like Ogbona, some 2,000 suspected cases of breast cancer have been identified that may otherwise have been undetected.

"Our involvement with BCI has done a lot to raise awareness and to educate thousands of women and girls, taking out the stigma of breast cancer, particularly in rural communities," said Eloina Baddoo, Delta Sales Manager - Ghana.

"At the center of our campaign is early detection and survivorship," said Dr. Beatrice Addai Wiafe, Founder and President of Breast Care International. "It is vital that families and women afflicted by the life-threatening disease do not rely on herbal concoctions and other unapproved methods of treatment. Those women who find a suspicious lump must contact their nearest health facility for immediate attention."

This year's annual walk saw over 2,000 walkers joining the noble cause. It is Ghana's leading awareness event. 

Delta to fly largest-ever trans-Atlantic schedule

Following a record-setting summer across the Atlantic, Delta customers can look forward to even more opportunities to explore sought-after locations across the globe next year. From hubs across the U.S., fliers can choose from the history-rich city of Naples, Italy; the lush, green landscape of Shannon, Ireland; the picturesque scenery of Zurich, Switzerland; and many more memorable destinations.

“There’s never been a better time to explore Europe on Delta,” said Joe Esposito, Senior Vice President – Network Planning, “and customers looking ahead to summer adventures abroad will find plenty of inspiring options – coupled with the premium services and amenities we know Delta customers anticipate and enjoy.”  

From New York JFK

Delta is the largest carrier to Europe, Africa and the Middle East from its JFK hub and will operate nearly 260 weekly flights next summer to 18 countries and 29 destinations throughout the region.

For the first time, Delta will connect customers with nonstop service from JFK to the ancient city of Naples, Italy – the gateway to the Amalfi coast and popular sites like Mount Vesuvius. Delta’s new daily service to Naples — beginning May 23, 2024 — complements the airline’s existing service to Milan, Venice and Rome.

Delta will also return to Shannon, Ireland, from JFK, beginning May 23, 2024. Last operated in 2019, this nonstop service joins Delta’s existing flying to Dublin, including newly announced service to the Irish capital from Minneapolis-Saint Paul.

Rounding out Delta’s new trans-Atlantic offerings from JFK next summer is a nonstop flight to Munich, which will operate three times a week beginning April 9, 2024.

One other fun fact? Delta is the only carrier to offer a morning departure from JFK to Paris.

From Atlanta

Delta Sky Way at LAX transformation complete, 18 months ahead of schedule

Delta Air Lines and Los Angeles World Airports have unveiled the final major phase of the $2.3 billion Delta Sky Way at LAX project, with Terminal 3 at Los Angeles International Airport now directly connected to the Tom Bradley International Terminal via moving airside walkways, officially eliminating the need for busing between terminals.

“This modern, state-of-the-art facility has been at the center of Delta’s efforts to become the premier airline of Los Angeles, and now, as we as we celebrate this years-long project being finished much earlier than expected, we are better equipped than ever to provide Angelenos and all of our customers traveling through LA with the truly seamless and elevated experience that they deserve” said Scott Santoro, Vice President of Global Sales.

The airline’s west headhouse and Delta One check-in area opened to customers in June, providing another entry point for check-in and security access. Self-service kiosks in the lobby area make dropping bags and printing boarding passes even easier. On the lower arrivals level of Terminal 3, the exclusive Delta One check-in area offers Delta One customers a private TSA screening lane, direct access to the Delta Sky Club, light food and beverages and white-glove assistance from Delta’s Elite Service agents.

Delta’s new Terminal 3, a 1.2-million-square-foot, 27-gate complex, debuted last April, featuring a centralized check-in lobby, expanded security checkpoint and baggage claim area, as well as a state-of-the-art Delta Sky Club, one of the largest in Delta’s system. Nine additional new gates, new concessions and spacious seating areas opened to customers in October 2022.

"Having just celebrated the opening of LAX’s Terminal 3 West Headhouse and already hearing an incredible amount of positive feedback on that aspect of the project, I know we can expect similar praise on the new Terminal 3 and Tom Bradley International Terminal post-security connector. This new passageway will significantly enhance the travel experience for millions of international and domestic guests," said Justin Erbacci, Chief Executive Officer, LAWA. "LAWA is thankful to its amazing partners Delta and Hensel Phelps and the entire LAWA team who rose to the occasion to deliver the Delta Sky Way project."

LAX serves as one of Delta’s most important coastal hubs, operating over 155 peak-day flights to nearly 55 destinations across the globe, serving 19 of the top 20 markets for Los Angeles customers. The airline continues to add new and exciting destinations to its slate, with never-before-operated service launching to Auckland, New Zealand, (Oct. 30); Jackson Hole, Wyo.; and Vail, Colo. (Dec. 16).

Delta and its 4,000 Los Angeles-based employees are deeply ingrained in the community, supporting more than a dozen nonprofit organizations throughout the state of California. Additionally, the airline is proud to serve as the inaugural founding partner of the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games and the official airline of Team USA. The airline also serves as the as official carrier of Crypto.com Arena and the LA Kings.

Delta to launch Dublin service from Minneapolis-Saint Paul

U.S. mega-carrier Delta is introducing a new route from Minneapolis-Saint Paul (MSP) to Dublin, Ireland.

With the addition of this route, which will operate five times a week starting May 9, 2024, Delta will offer seasonal service to the Emerald Isle from three of its U.S. hubs – Atlanta, Boston and Minneapolis – in addition to year-round service from New York-JFK.

“Delta continues to build on its longstanding No. 1 position in Minneapolis with another nonstop option for customers travelling overseas,” said Joe Esposito, Delta’s Senior Vice President – Network Planning. “With nearly 10 trans-Atlantic and trans-Pacific flights flying direct from the Twin Cities, customers have the utmost choice, coupled with our award-winning customer service, when travelling with us.”

Delta is MSP’s largest global carrier, currently operating more than 330 peak-day flights to 120 destinations, with service across the world to cities such as Amsterdam; Cancun, Mexico; Paris; Keflavik, Iceland; London; Montréal; Vancouver, Canada; and more. Delta is also the only carrier providing nonstop service from MSP to Asia, with daily service to Seoul, South Korea, and Tokyo-Haneda. 

“MSP travellers are eager for increased air service to European destinations, and we’re pleased to see Delta add nonstop service to Dublin next year,” said Rick King, Chair of the Metropolitan Airports Commission, which operates MSP. “This route is important to leisure and business travellers as we anticipate continued international demand into 2024 and beyond.”

On the ground......

Delta continues to invest in modern and intuitive airport spaces at its Minneapolis hub. Earlier this year, the airline unveiled its third and largest Delta Sky Club at MSP, featuring seating for more than 450 guests, a first-of-its-kind Sky Deck and more.

Delta is also partnering with the Metropolitan Airports Commission to further modernize the G concourse, contributing $47 million toward new terrazzo flooring, refreshed ceilings and lighting fixtures, upgraded digital signage, and more. The project is slated to be complete by the end of 2025.

Boston’s nautical history inspires Delta Sky Club’s luxurious new BOS-E lounge

Delta Sky Club is anchoring its newest lounge at Boston-Logan Airport in the city's nautical history, offering sweeping views of the historic harbour and a 21st-century skyline. The nearly 21,000-square-foot Club, which seats more than 400 guests, will operate on the international E Concourse alongside two Clubs on Concourse A.

The lounge design takes inspiration from the famous harbour itself, incorporating colours and textures reminiscent of Boston’s nautical history.  

The Club’s washed oak motif nods to the weathered wood of a ship, giving customers the feel of being aboard a classic sailing vessel. Even the shape of the Club mimics the graceful curvature of a sailboat; its elongated profile complements the building’s architecture and is divided by wood and metal arches that transform the expansive square footage into intimate, inviting spaces. A calming colour palette with accents of navy, teal and terracotta pulls from the signature brick of the Boston skyline, paired with a gradient sunset over the jewel-toned harbour. 

Perhaps the most eye-catching element of the Club is the premium bar, which features a layered, champagne-toned mesh ceiling overhang and a dramatic backlit beverage display.  

Guests of the lounge will enjoy premium food and beverage options that Delta Sky Club customers have come to know and love. In addition to the seasonally inspired selection of fresh items served at the buffet, the BOS-E Club will serve regional specialities like New England clam chowder and Boston-based Necco candy wafers. 

The lounge is outfitted with a variety of seating options — including six soundproof phone booths — to accommodate customers looking to work, socialize or simply take in the views. Club restroom amenities have been optimized for guest comfort and privacy and include a family room and five shower suites (two of which are ADA compliant). In addition, this space was designed with sustainability in mind – the Club is LEED-Silver certified.  

“While no two lounges are alike, the layout and Boston-inspired details in this Club make it feel truly one-of-a-kind,” said Claude Roussel, Managing Director – Delta Sky Club. “From the moment our guests enter the lounge, we want them to feel transported — not just by curated design, but by the care and hospitality they experience from our ambassadors.” 

Beginning Aug. 15, the E Concourse Club will be open to customers from 1:30-10:45 p.m. (the lounge closes at 10:15 p.m. on Wednesdays).  

Airlines transport relief supplies to Maui as wildfires claim 55 lives

The wildfires that have spread across Maui have claimed the lives of at least 55 people, local authorities report and the death toll is likely to increase. Governor Josh Green said the inferno that reduced much of Lahaina to smouldering ruins was the worst natural disaster in the state's history, making thousands of people homeless and levelling as many as 1,000 buildings.  

Thousands of locals and tourists were evacuated from the western side of Maui with some taking shelter elsewhere on the island or on Oahu. Many tourists camped in the Kahului Airport, waiting for flights back home.

Alaska Airlines has operated special rescue flights to Maui filled with relief supplies including water, non-perishable food, pillows, blankets, towels, wipes, baby formula and diapers. The aircraft transported passengers back to Seattle. 

The carrier said it was closely monitoring the devastating impacts of the wildfires on Maui and would even be operating unscheduled flights between Maui and Honolulu to move guests off of Maui and bring critical supplies in. 

Our hearts are with those on Maui, and our employees and their families, during this devastating time,” said Daniel Chun, Alaska’s Director of Sales, Community & Public Relations in Hawaii. “We hope we can help bring much-needed care and relief to those who’ve experienced catastrophic loss throughout the community.” 

The airline issued the following advice for passengers with bookings on flights to Hawai'i.   

Traveling to/from Maui 

We are offering a flexible travel policy if you would like to change or cancel your flight to Maui.  

In accordance with emergency orders from the state of Hawai‘i, we’re discouraging guests from non-essential travel to Maui. The flexible travel policy allows guests with planned travel to Maui to change their flight to another Hawaiian island. Alaska serves Honolulu, O‘ahu; Kona, Hawai‘i; and Līhu‘e, Kaua‘i.  

To help the Maui community, for this emergency, we are allowing guests to cancel their reservations and receive a refund to their original form of payment upon request. As always, you can choose to keep the refund in your Account wallet or receive a credit certificate for future travel, but we are doing everything we can to encourage our guests to rethink their trips to the island right now. 

U.S mega-carrier Delta advised it will contribute $250,000 to the American Red Cross to aid in the disaster response and relief efforts in Maui and other areas of Hawaii coping with the destruction caused by recent wildfires brought on by strong winds as a result of Hurricane Dora, a Category 4 hurricane which passed 300 miles south of the Hawaiian Islands.   Most of the fires on Maui are still burning, forcing thousands of residents and tourists to evacuate. the airline advised, however, the carrier was still selling tickets to Maui for travel tomorrow at fares of £1942.   

Hawaiian Airlines

The boss of local hometown carrier of the islands, Hawaiin Airlines, Peter Ingram said:  “This is an incredibly tragic and sad event, and our hearts go out to everyone impacted on Maui and especially those who have lost loved ones. - Our teams across our operation are working tirelessly to help those affected, including our nearly 500 colleagues who call Maui home. We send our deepest condolences to those impacted by the fires and will continue to leverage every resource we have to support the Maui community."

Here’s how Hawaiian Airlines has supported response efforts in the first 24 hours:

Facilitating essential travel

Ran a full schedule of flights in and out of Maui, including nine additional flights scheduled on both the 9th and 10th of August

Made every main cabin seat from Kahului to Honolulu available at $19 through Aug. 14, so costs would not be an obstacle to those needing to leave.

Issued a travel waiver to allow guests with travel to and from Maui scheduled through Aug. 31 flexibility to change or refund flights.

Cargo

The airline set aside dedicated space on its aircraft to support essential cargo, including life-saving blood and medical supplies, medication, food, water, amenity kits and infrastructure equipment for telecommunications repairs.

Donated and shipped soft goods and catering items, including 300 bottles of Mananalu water, 550 sandwiches, 3,000 snack items, 1,600 amenity kits, mattress pads, lounging pillows and other supplies, for evacuees arriving at Kahului Airport.

Caring for guests and employees

Activated Team Kōkua, Hawaiian’s employee volunteer group, to support guests and staff in Honolulu and Kahului.

Deployed employee members of the Hawaiian Airlines Emergency Assistance Response Team (HEART) to work at the Honolulu Convention Center and other shelter facilities for visitors.

Activated employee support resources for team members on Maui and elsewhere who have been personally affected by these tragic events.

Partnering for relief efforts

Donated seats to first responders, including City and County of Honolulu firefighters to help Maui stations battle the ongoing wildfires.

Nearly 90 million miles (equivalent to 12,000 interisland flights) in joint donation with HawaiianMiles members to the American Red Cross of Hawaii to facilitate travel for volunteers, support personnel and community members in need.

Delta Air Lines and Kenya Airways expand partnership to offer more travel options across US and Africa

Delta Air Lines and Kenya Airways PLC are expanding their strategic partnership to include Kenya Airways’ nonstop Nairobi-to-New York service, effective Aug. 5, 2023. The expanded partnership also offers customers more travel options within the U.S. and Africa, with 31 additional single connect destinations in Africa and another 57 across the U.S. and Canada.

Apart from enjoying the most direct route and wider connectivity options, Delta SkyMiles members and Kenya Airways’ Asante Rewards members can also continue to earn miles on this enhancement. Tickets can be purchased from delta.com, as well as through trade and corporate channels including travel agencies.

“At a time when we are seeing unprecedented demand for travel between North America and Africa, expanding our strategic partnership with Kenya Airways offers our customers more travel options as well as supports our priority to deepen our presence across the African continent,” said Alain Bellemare, Delta’s President of International.

Allan Kilavuka, Kenya Airways PLC CEO, explained this new expansion will enhance connectivity between Africa and the U.S. and offer the KQ product directly through its American partner. 

“Kenya Airways prides itself in connecting Africa to the world and the world to Africa,” Kilavuka added. “The expansion of the codeshare is historic as it not only allows KQ to expand its footprint in the U.S., providing seamless connectivity on a single ticket for those travelling for business, leisure or studies.  It also offers seamless connectivity to those visiting Africa for similar reasons through JFK into KQ’s hub at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi.”

KQ currently offers daily flights from Nairobi, Kenya to the U.S. via JFK airport in New York. Delta has been operating nonstop service between Africa to the United States since 2006. Delta currently operates flights from Accra, Ghana; Dakar, Senegal; Cape Town and Johannesburg, South Africa; and Lagos, Nigeria. 

All aboard as Delta people take part in Amsterdam’s colorful Canal Parade to celebrate Pride

Delta Air Lines people were proud to join the Canal Parade, one of the highlights of the Amsterdam Pride festival, on Saturday, Aug. 5. This was the first time the airline has taken part in the colorful event, which attracted thousands of spectators along the city’s canals.  

Delta’s boat, decorated with rainbows and clouds and featuring the Widget tailplane, sailed along the waterways with a crew of Delta people wearing ‘Pride in Flight’ t-shirts. They were joined by guests from KLM, Delta’s joint-venture partner airline, as well as LGBTQ travel influencers and DJ Bo Monde, Miss Gay Holland 2017. 

Matteo Curcio, Delta’s Senior Vice President for Europe, Middle East, Africa and India, who was also on the boat, said: “Delta is about bringing people and communities together; Amsterdam Pride’s theme #YouAreIncluded is entirely in tune with that. We were thrilled to be part of this celebration and to have fun with our colleagues and customers.” 

The event showcased the airline’s ongoing commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. Delta supports the LGBTQ+ community and values the differences that make it stronger as a company. “We are very grateful to everyone who helped make this happen. Our Delta team here in The Netherlands was so enthusiastic and passionate about taking part in this event,” said Raymond Timmer, Delta Cargo Manager. “It was a wonderful experience, and we hope to do it again next year.” 

“Delta connects the world and aims to ensure that everyone – no matter how they identify – is respected and valued,” said Dewayne Queen, president of Delta’s EQUAL, a voluntary business resource group representing Delta’s LGBTQ+ employees and their allies. “Delta takes its role as a leader in inclusive travel and workplace sense of belonging seriously, and we are committed to supporting diversity, equity and inclusion worldwide. That’s why we were delighted to be here in Amsterdam celebrating this wonderful event.” 

Dewayne was joined onboard by three other EQUAL members. 

The Canal Parade was one of the many activities that took place during the Amsterdam Pride festival, which ran from July 29 to Aug 6. 

SkyWest reports pre-tax income of $18 million and net income of $15 million during quarter two of 2023

U.S. airline SkyWest has released details of its financial and operating results for the second quarter of 2023, including net income of $15 million, or $0.35 per diluted share, compared to net income of $54 million, or $1.07 earnings per diluted share, for Q2 2022.

Chip Childs, Chief Executive Officer of SkyWest, said, “We are making steady headway towards reaching our strategic business objectives and remain optimistic as we continue experiencing strong demand for our products. I want to thank our team of professionals for delivering industry-leading performance throughout the second quarter.”

SkyWest Airlines has a fleet of approximately 500 aircraft connecting passengers to over 240 destinations throughout North America. SkyWest Airlines operates through partnerships with United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and Alaska Airlines carrying more than 40 million passengers in 2022.

Under its previously announced share repurchase programs, SkyWest repurchased 3.3 million shares of common stock for $94 million during Q2 2023. In total, during the first half of 2023, SkyWest repurchased 8.4 million shares of common stock for $194 million, which represented 17% of SkyWest’s outstanding shares as of December 31, 2022. The current share repurchase program authorized by the SkyWest Board of Directors in May 2023 had $186 million of remaining availability as of June 30, 2023.

Financial Results

Revenue was $726 million in Q2 2023, down $73 million, or 9%, from $799 million in Q2 2022. SkyWest deferred recognizing $60 million of revenue during Q2 2023 compared to recognizing previously deferred revenue of $16 million during Q2 2022. The amount of revenue deferred during Q2 2023 was driven by modified terms relating to fixed monthly cash payments under SkyWest’s previously announced amended flying contracts. See the “Other Supplemental Cash Flow Information” section of this release for more information. The remaining reduction in revenue was attributed to a decrease in block hour production in Q2 2023 compared to Q2 2022.

Operating expenses were $694 million in Q2 2023, down $16 million, or 2%, from $710 million in Q2 2022, driven by decreases in operating costs as a result of lower Q2 2023 block hour production compared to Q2 2022, partially offset by increases in employee compensation, including higher pilot pay scales.

Capital and Liquidity

SkyWest had $862 million in cash and marketable securities at June 30, 2023, down from $936 million at March 31, 2023 and $1.0 billion at December 31, 2022.

Total debt at June 30, 2023 was $3.2 billion, down from $3.3 billion at March 31, 2023 and $3.4 billion at December 31, 2022. Capital expenditures during Q2 2023 were $31 million for spare engines and other fixed assets.

Status Update on Previously Announced Agreements

SkyWest anticipates adding two E175 aircraft in Q4 2023 and one E175 aircraft in 2024 under a flying contract with Delta Air Lines. SkyWest also anticipates adding one E175 aircraft in 2025 under a flying contract with Alaska Airlines. Timing of future deliveries is subject to change.

By the end of 2025, SkyWest is scheduled to operate a total of 239 E175 aircraft.

Delta's second Sky Club opens at New York's JFK

The U.S. mega-carrier Delta opens a new second Sky Club lounge at New York's JFK airport which can accommodate over 250 people in a space that spans some 14,000 square feet.  

The lounge includes a covered Sky Deck and will operate alongside the Club on Terminal 4, Concourse B. Together the two Clubs will have capacity for over 800 guests simultaneously at JFK.  

The lounge design takes inspiration from New York City itself – the gritty and the glossy, a city rich with contrasts and pulsating with life. Just as true New Yorkers have their preferred haunts, the JFK T4-A lounge includes unique discoverable moments that are sure to become favorites for frequent guests. 

A fireplace lounge provides cozy ambience for work or relaxation, while guests enjoy sweeping views of the airfield. A tucked-away nook with lush green seating evokes the elegance and privacy of a classic speakeasy. A signature,  360-degree premium bar serves as the Club’s centerpiece — a grand and inviting space, one suited to the city that never sleeps. 

“This new Club is beautifully designed and packed with special details that reflect the magic of New York City,” said Claude Roussel, Managing Director — Delta Sky Club. “But much more important than that, it’s a place where our people can deliver Delta Sky Club’s signature hospitality, making each guest feel welcomed and cared for from the moment they step inside."

Delta Air Lines discloses order for 12 additional A220 aircraft

Largest A220 customer and operator bringing its total order for the type to 131 aircraft

Under its current agreement, Delta Air Lines has disclosed an order for 12 additional A220-300 aircraft, bringing the airline’s total firm order for A220s to 131 aircraft - 45 A220-100s and 86 A220-300. Throughout the years, Delta has reordered the A220 five times and is today the largest A220 customer and operator in the world.

“The A220-300 offers efficient performance and flexibility,” said Kristen Bojko, Vice President of Fleet. “The continuing expansion of Delta’s A220 family is an integral investment in the future of sustainable aviation.”

“This additional order from the largest A220 customer and operator is yet another strong endorsement for the value and opportunities offered by this latest generation aircraft family. The A220 provides Delta the flexibility to right-size its operations, gaining in efficiency and offering superior single-aisle comfort. In service with Delta, the A220 has proven to be a game changer in its size category in highly competitive North America markets," said Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International.

In addition to its positive cabin experience, the aircraft plays an important role in helping decrease airline operating costs and environmental impact. Offering 25% lower fuel burn and CO2 emissions per seat compared to previous generation aircraft, the A220 is the only aircraft purpose-built for the 100-150 seat market.  Combining state-of-the-art aerodynamics, advanced materials and Pratt & Whitney’s latest-generation GTF™ engines, the A220 brings customers a 50% reduced noise footprint and around 50% lower NOx emissions than industry standards.

Delta took delivery of its first Airbus A220 in October 2018, and was the first U.S. carrier to operate the aircraft type. Delta currently operates a fleet of 433 Airbus aircraft, including 61 A220 aircraft, 280 A320 Family aircraft, 64 A330s and 28 A350-900 aircraft. 

With 271 A220s delivered* to 16 airlines operating on four continents, the A220 is the optimal aircraft to offer operational flexibility for both regional as well as long-distance routes. To date, more than 90 million passengers have flown on the A220. The fleet is currently flying on over 1,100 routes and over 375 destinations worldwide. As of the end of June 2023, around 30 customers have ordered more than 800 A220 aircraft - confirming its leading position in the small single-aisle market.

 *At the end of June 2023