Delta Air Lines has announced it will link Malta and Italy’s Sardinia, two of the world’s leading gaming hubs, with nonstop flights from New York in 2026, strengthening their global connectivity while boosting tourism and business ties. The company stated that the move not only expands the airline’s transatlantic network but also enhances Malta’s visibility as both a tourism destination and a global hub for the gaming industry, alongside Sardinia. 

The airline revealed the winners of its first “Route Race,” which allowed SkyMiles members and Delta employees to vote on new destinations. Sardinia topped the members’ poll, while Malta was the favourite among Delta’s workforce. 

“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.,” Paul Baldoni, Delta’s senior vice president for network planning, said. “We can now say that our network is not just built for our most loyal customers, but by them.” 

From May 2026, flights to Sardinia will operate four times weekly, followed by three weekly flights to Malta from June.   

Malta: Tourism gateway and gaming hub 

Valleta, Malta. (Source: Canva)

For Malta, the launch marks its first direct scheduled service to the U.S. by an American carrier. Alan Borg, CEO of Malta International Airport, described it as a historic milestone for our islands and for Malta International Airport, adding that it aligns with the government’s long-term vision to attract “quality tourism.” 

Dr. Ian Borg, Malta’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, called the development a “landmark” for relations between Malta and the United States, noting that it would strengthen social, cultural, and economic collaboration. 

Beyond tourism, Malta continues to build its reputation as a global gaming hub. Once best known for pioneering business-to-consumer (B2C) online gambling operations, the country has evolved into a centre for business-to-business (B2B) services. Regulatory foresight has helped drive this shift. 

Latest data from the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) indicate that the gaming industry contributed just under 7 percent to the country’s Gross Value Added (GVA) in the economy, which amounts to approximately €1.4 billion. Industry experts attribute Malta’s success to flexible legislation and its willingness to embrace innovation.     

Sardinia: Blue Zone lifestyle meets new connectivity 

Sardinia, Italy. (Source: Canva)

Meanwhile, Sardinia, Italy’s second-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, brings a different attraction to Delta’s map. Known as one of the world’s “Blue Zones” where residents often live past 100, it offers travellers a blend of rugged landscapes, ancient history, and celebrated cuisine. 

Local officials welcomed the launch of the Olbia–New York route as a “historic and strategic milestone.” Silvio Pippobello, CEO of Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport, said it “establishes Sardinia on the global stage and opens 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,” Pippobello added. 

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