Direct flights between Malta International Airport and New York’s JFK, operated by Delta Air Lines, will begin in June 2026, with an initial schedule of three weekly services running through to October.

The Ministry for Tourism explained that the new transatlantic route forms part of Malta’s long-term goal to position itself as a quality destination while strengthening both cultural and economic ties with the United States.

Industry leaders have welcomed the development as a landmark opportunity not only for tourism but also for Malta’s wider investment landscape.

The Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA) described it as a “historic step forward” that fills a long-standing gap in connectivity, while the Gozo Tourism Association (GTA) called it a milestone in strengthening global links.

Both associations underlined that US and Canadian travellers typically stay longer, spend more, and show strong interest in cultural and authentic experiences – factors that promise to boost high-value tourism, create new demand in the hospitality sector, and expand opportunities in areas such as conferences, cultural events, and specialised niche markets.

As part of the broader strategy tied to the route, the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) will redirect funds previously used for summer music festivals towards the promotion of cultural tourism, with a focus on heritage, religious, culinary, and art tourism.

This policy shift reflects Malta’s ambition to attract long-haul, high-spending visitors and to enhance its profile as a premium Mediterranean destination.

Together, the enhanced connectivity and strategic repositioning are expected to open new avenues for investment in Malta’s tourism, hospitality, and cultural sectors, while also reinforcing the country’s international competitiveness.