Delta Airlines to begin Melbourne-LA flights

DELTA AIRLINES AIRBUS A350-941 N522DZ (MSN 673)

Major US airline Delta Airlines will soon operate direct flights between Melbourne (MEL/YMML) and Los Angeles (LAX/KLAX), becoming the third carrier to compete on this route. The flights will commence in December 2025, adding 86,000 more seats per year between Australia and the US, with Delta Air Lines offering three weekly flights in both directions

Announced on a few days ago, the move puts Delta in competition on the route with Qantas and United Airlines Based on fares listed Sunday, Delta is not yet selling the direct route tickets. Flights from Melbourne to LA with a stop in Sydney are selling for about $200 less than Qantas and United’s direct Melbourne to LA flights for December.

“This is a win for the whole state - for tourism operators, businesses, hotels and restaurants, and for families and travellers,” Victorian Tourism Minister Steve Dimopoulos said.

“These new Delta flights will bring thousands more tourists from North America to Victoria.”

Victoria has narrowed the gap - behind NSW - as the country’s most popular destination state since the pandemic.

“These new flights will also make it more affordable and convenient for travellers and families who want to experience the USA - which is a win for families who have America on their bucket list,” Mr. Dimopoulos said.

As of today, there are 29 weekly flights from Sydney (SYD/YSSY) to Los Angeles (LAX/KLAX), but only 12 from Melbourne.