Rome, March 28, 2026 – Delta Air Lines is set to launch a new non-stop flight from Rome Fiumicino Airport to Seattle, starting May 7th. This new route will operate four times a week, utilizing a state-of-the-art Airbus A330-900neo aircraft. Seattle will become Delta’s sixth direct destination from Rome Fiumicino, joining New York-JFK, Atlanta, Boston, Detroit, and Minneapolis.
Enhanced Transatlantic Connectivity
Matt Long, Managing Director for Delta in Europe and Africa, emphasized the strategic importance of this new connection. “Italy has always been central to Delta’s transatlantic network, and Rome remains one of our main gateways into Europe,” Long stated. “With the launch of our new direct flight to Seattle, we are building a bridge between the Italian capital and one of the most dynamic regions in the United States.” He further added that “this new service reflects Delta’s long-term commitment to Italy.”
Rome Fiumicino’s Growing North American Network
Federico Scriboni, Aviation Business Development Director at Aeroporti di Roma, highlighted the significance of this development for the airport. “The launch of the new connection between Rome Fiumicino and Seattle, operated by Delta Air Lines, represents a further step in strengthening connectivity between Rome and North America, the most relevant long-haul market for our airport,” Scriboni explained. He also noted that “with the introduction of Seattle, in summer 2026, Fiumicino will be connected to 22 North American airports and will offer up to 42 daily departures to North America, marking an unprecedented record in terms of offerings.”
Seattle: A Hub for Global Events
The timing of this new flight is particularly relevant as Seattle is one of the host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This will likely boost travel demand to the city, making the new direct connection even more valuable for passengers from Italy and beyond.
Impact on Tourism and Business
The increased connectivity is expected to foster both tourism and business exchanges between Italy and the US West Coast. Rome, a city rich in history and culture, will now be more accessible to travelers from the Pacific Northwest, while Seattle, known for its technology industry and vibrant cultural scene, will be within easier reach for Italian travelers. The Airbus A330-900neo, with its advanced features and fuel efficiency, is expected to offer a comfortable and sustainable travel experience for passengers on this new route.
Delta’s Commitment to the Italian Market
Delta Air Lines has consistently shown a strong commitment to the Italian market, continuously expanding its services and offerings. The addition of Seattle as a direct destination underscores this dedication, providing more options and flexibility for travelers. The airline’s extensive network from Rome Fiumicino already provides crucial links to major US hubs, facilitating onward travel to numerous destinations across North America.
Future Outlook for Transatlantic Travel
The expansion of transatlantic routes, especially with direct connections, is a positive indicator for the recovery and growth of international travel. As global events like the FIFA World Cup approach, such direct flights are vital for accommodating the anticipated surge in passenger traffic and ensuring seamless travel experiences. The partnership between Delta Air Lines and Aeroporti di Roma continues to strengthen, promising further enhancements in air travel connectivity in the future.
Source: ANSA
