Delta Air Lines is set to introduce a new long-haul service connecting Los Angeles and Melbourne, further expanding its footprint in the Australian market. The route, scheduled to begin operations in December 2025, will operate three times a week on an Airbus A350. Flights will depart from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) at 9:25 p.m. and arrive in Melbourne (MEL) after approximately 15 hours of travel.
The Los Angeles-Melbourne corridor is already served by Qantas and United Airlines, making Delta’s entry a strategic move to compete in the transpacific market. The addition of this route makes it Delta’s third-longest flight, behind its existing services from Atlanta to Johannesburg and Cape Town. The airline had previously partnered with Virgin Australia on this route before its suspension during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Over the past year, Delta has significantly increased its presence in Australia, launching new flights from Los Angeles to Brisbane in December 2024. With the introduction of the Melbourne route, the airline’s weekly flights between the U.S. and Australia will rise to 20, solidifying its position in the market. Delta now offers direct services to Australia’s three largest cities, competing directly with other major U.S. carriers such as United and American Airlines.
Melbourne Airport officials have highlighted the economic benefits of this expansion, citing increased travel opportunities for Victorian businesses and tourism sectors. Additional flight options are expected to support local hospitality, dining, and tourism industries, bringing a surge of international visitors to the region.