North American aviation giant Delta Air Lines has officially landed in Victoria for the first time, launching a new direct service between Los Angeles and Melbourne.
The inaugural flight, DL11, touched down at Melbourne Airport to a water cannon salute and a traditional Indigenous welcome ceremony, marking the beginning of what’s expected to be a record-breaking summer for international arrivals.
Strengthening the US-Australia Connection
Delta’s arrival marks a significant milestone in transpacific connectivity, as the airline becomes the first to operate non-stop flights between Melbourne and the United States on an Airbus A350 aircraft. The 275-seat jet features Delta’s latest four-class configuration, including 40 premium Delta One suites.
The inaugural flights — DL11 inbound and DL12 outbound — were assigned flight numbers in tribute to Melbourne’s iconic tram routes, highlighting a local connection as Delta establishes a foothold in the Victorian capital.
Flights will connect directly into Delta’s Los Angeles hub, where travellers can access more than 40 cities across North America. The new service is expected to attract thousands of inbound visitors each week and will support trade, tourism, and business ties between Australia and the US.
A Boost for Victoria’s Tourism Economy
Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus welcomed the expansion, noting the added value Delta brings to the state’s visitor economy.
“Delta is one of the largest airlines in the world and its network opens up incredible opportunities for trade and travel in both North and South America,” she said.
“This new service will help bring hundreds of extra visitors to our state each week, which will help support Victoria’s world-class tourism, dining and hospitality venues.”
Argus added that with more than 2.5 million international travellers expected to pass through Melbourne Airport this summer, Delta’s presence enhances Victoria’s global connectivity.
More Than Just a Flight: Supporting Major Events and Trade
Delta’s launch comes ahead of major US sporting events set to take place in Melbourne, including the Los Angeles Rams’ scheduled match at the MCG in 2026. The new service will help drive inbound tourism around these events, while also enabling easier access for Victorian businesses and families wanting to travel to the US.
Australian Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing, Colin Brooks, said the new connection would also benefit trade.
“Delta’s arrival is a huge win for travellers and tourism operators, and a major boost for our trade links with the United States,” he said.
