Delta Air Lines Chief Executive Ed Bastian said that launching direct flights between Atlanta and Riyadh marks a strategic step that will open a new air corridor for business and investment between two dynamic economies and cultures, underscoring that the move will boost cross-sector partnerships and support multinational companies and their regional headquarters in Saudi Arabia under Vision 2030.
Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat on the sidelines of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) in Riyadh, Bastian’s remarks came days after Delta announced plans to operate direct flights to Saudi Arabia, making it the first US carrier to operate nonstop routes to the Kingdom.
Bastian said the new route, driven by strong demand from business, tourism, and conference travel, reflects Delta’s full confidence in the Saudi market and serves as a key link connecting the financial and innovation ecosystems of the United States and the Kingdom.
He said Delta aims to establish broader network connectivity through an expected partnership with Riyadh Air, noting that the tie-up would bring together two forward-looking carriers offering seamless connectivity and shared loyalty benefits.
Bastian said Delta is proud to be the first US airline to announce direct flights to the Saudi capital, adding that the expansion aligns with Delta’s global connectivity strategy and its drive to grow in emerging markets. He said it is backed by investments in a modern fleet, digital transformation, and artificial intelligence to enhance efficiency and cut emissions.
Launch timeline and onboard experience
Bastian said the Atlanta–Riyadh service represents a strategic, opportunity-driven expansion, with Riyadh’s growth and ambition making it an attractive destination. The route is set to begin in October 2026, operating three times weekly using an Airbus A350-900 with four cabin classes.
While Riyadh is the starting point, he said the airline is open to future expansion in the Kingdom.
He expects strong US passenger demand for travel to what he described as a rising global hub, adding that Riyadh’s growth and ambition make it a compelling destination and that the new route will open new horizons for both business and leisure travelers.
Delta’s participation in FII
Highlighting Delta’s presence at the FII forum, Bastian said the company is proud to be the first US carrier to announce direct service to Riyadh. He described the city as vibrant and fast-growing, adding that Delta’s presence in the Kingdom reflects its commitment to global connectivity and support for the transformation underway under Vision 2030.
With the new Atlanta–Riyadh route, Bastian said Delta is taking a leading role in building a strategic bridge connecting two dynamic economies and cultures.
Expanding footprint in the Middle East
Bastian said Delta is entering an entirely new phase in the Middle East. He said this marks Delta’s first steps in Saudi Arabia and the start of a new chapter in its international expansion.
As Delta approaches the close of its first century, Bastian said the company wants its second century to be defined by global growth. Through strategic partnerships, including with Riyadh Air, Delta aims to build the foundation for long-term success based on connectivity, innovation, and premium service. The goal, he added, is to deepen its presence and deliver lasting value across the region.
Competing with Gulf carriers
Bastian said Delta competes in a region dominated by strong Gulf airlines through its core strengths—exceptional service, reliability, and customer care.
He described the expected partnership with Riyadh Air as a unique competitive proposition that unites two forward-looking carriers to offer seamless connectivity, shared loyalty benefits, and innovative experiences blending Delta’s long heritage with Riyadh Air’s digital-first approach.
Growing US-Middle East travel demand
Bastian said international travel demand has rebounded strongly since the pandemic, driven by growing interest across generations. He said the transformation taking place in Saudi Arabia is creating significant new reasons to visit, adding that Delta is preparing to meet that demand with premium service and smooth connections, particularly amid rising business travel expected to deepen cultural and economic exchange.
Financial and operational performance
On financial performance, Bastian said Delta posted record third-quarter revenue of $15.2 billion, with strong margins and diversified growth across premium travel and loyalty segments.
He said the carrier’s international expansion remains on a solid trajectory, with emerging markets such as Riyadh, Sardinia, and Hong Kong offering promising growth opportunities.
Industry outlook and technology
Looking ahead, Bastian said airfares are likely to stabilize at levels higher than before COVID-19 as travelers increasingly value premium experiences and view travel as a form of personal enrichment.
He said artificial intelligence is central to Delta’s innovation efforts, used in predictive technologies to enhance operations. The company has launched the Delta Concierge digital assistant to support personalized travel experiences.
Bastian said AI enhances human decision-making and does not replace the human touch of Delta’s more than 100,000 employees.
Efficiency and cost reduction
On cost control, Bastian said Delta is cutting seat costs by renewing its fleet with next-generation aircraft such as the A350-1000, which are up to 20% more fuel-efficient. He also cited digital transformation and improved crew productivity as key efficiency drivers.
He added that new aircraft deliveries—both narrow- and wide-body—will expand capacity and efficiency while larger jets deliver savings on maintenance and crew costs. Tools such as Delta’s internal Carbon Council and digital platforms are improving operations and reducing waste, lowering costs and supporting sustainability goals.
Bastian said Delta is managing delivery delays from Airbus and Boeing by optimizing its current fleet and maintaining flexibility in its order strategy.
He said the planned partnership with Riyadh Air extends beyond network connectivity to include broad cooperation in maintenance, training, and operational services, evolving into a long-term strategic alliance to support both carriers’ growth.
