Delta Launches First US Airline Route to Riyadh From Atlanta

Delta Air Lines will launch nonstop service between Atlanta and Riyadh on October 23, marking the first time a US airline has operated scheduled flights to Saudi Arabia. The new long-haul route represents a significant milestone in Delta’s international network expansion and reflects growing demand for travel and commercial links between the United States and the Middle East.

The Atlanta–Riyadh service will connect Delta’s primary hub at Atlanta with the Saudi capital, Riyadh, offering travelers direct access to one of the region’s fastest-growing business and tourism markets. The route is scheduled to begin this fall and will be operated using the Airbus A350-900, one of the most advanced widebody aircraft in Delta’s fleet.

Configured with business class, premium economy, and economy cabins, the A350-900 is designed to deliver improved fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and enhanced passenger comfort on ultra-long-haul flights. Delta has increasingly relied on the A350 family to support expansion into strategic long-distance markets, leveraging the aircraft’s range and operating economics to open routes that were previously not viable.

The launch of Riyadh service aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader push to expand international connectivity as part of its long-term economic diversification strategy. The kingdom has been investing heavily in aviation, tourism, and infrastructure, with Riyadh positioned as a major global hub linking Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America. Delta’s entry into the market underscores the growing importance of Saudi Arabia for US carriers seeking new growth opportunities beyond traditional transatlantic routes.

For Delta, the new service strengthens Atlanta’s role as a global gateway. The airline’s Atlanta hub already provides extensive domestic and international connectivity, enabling passengers from across the United States to reach Riyadh with a single stop. The route is expected to appeal to a mix of business travelers, government and defense-related traffic, visiting friends and relatives, and tourists exploring the Middle East.

Industry analysts view the route as strategically significant, as it establishes a direct competitive presence for a US carrier in a market long dominated by Middle Eastern and European airlines. It also reflects improving bilateral ties and increased air service cooperation between the two countries.

Delta has not yet announced flight frequencies or partnership details tied to the new route, but the airline has emphasized that customer experience will be a central focus. The A350-900’s onboard product, including modern cabins and advanced inflight entertainment, is intended to position the service competitively on one of the longest routes in Delta’s network.

As global long-haul travel continues to rebound, Delta’s Atlanta–Riyadh launch highlights how US airlines are selectively expanding into high-potential markets, using next-generation aircraft to support sustainable growth and strengthen their global footprint.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com