US airline Delta has announced it will re-launch its direct route between New York’s John F Kennedy airport and Mumbai beginning 22 December.
The carrier first started offering flights on the route in 2006 but suspended the service in 2009, claiming “illegally subsidised Middle East carriers made the route untenable”. The US and UAE governments have since reached an agreement to address what American carriers were calling “Open Skies-violating” subsidies for state-owned airlines.
The carrier will use a newly refurbished Boeing 777-200LR on the route, offering Delta One Suite (first class), Delta Premium Select (business class), Delta Comfort+ (premium economy) and Main Cabin (economy) seats.
Flights depart JFK at 2115, arriving at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaji International airport in Mumbai at 2250 the following day local time. The return service leaves at 0050 and lands at 0635 local time.
CEO Ed Bastian commented: “Delta’s nonstop service between New York and Mumbai is the latest example of our international growth as we strive to connect the world better than any other airline. This route would not be possible without the administration’s ongoing efforts to enforce fair competition in international travel, ensuring that consumers enjoy a wide range of choices as they travel the globe.”
delta.com