Delta Air Lines is set to expand its international network later this year with the launch of new non-stop flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Melbourne Airport (MEL). Starting in December 2025, this move will strengthen Melbourne’s global connectivity while marking a significant milestone for Delta as it continues to grow its presence in the Asia-Pacific region.
This new service will be the first-ever non-stop flight between Melbourne and the U.S. operated by Delta, showcasing the airline’s commitment to expanding its long-haul operations.
Delta’s Premium Airbus A350 to Serve the Route
Delta will deploy its state-of-the-art Airbus A350 for the Los Angeles-Melbourne route. Initially, flights will operate three times a week, with the frequency expected to increase as Delta expands its A350 fleet.
Key Features of Delta’s Airbus A350:
- Total Seats: 275
- Delta One Suites: 40 fully flat-bed suites for premium comfort
- Premium Select: 40 recliner seats offering extra space and upgraded amenities
- Comfort+: 36 extra-legroom economy seats
- Main Cabin: 159 standard economy seats
Delta’s A350, featuring the new four-class cabin layout, ensures a premium experience for all types of travelers, whether they are flying for business or leisure.
Flight Schedule for the New Route
- From Los Angeles (LAX) to Melbourne (MEL):
- Departure: 21:25 (Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays)
- Arrival: 08:15 (+2 days) local time
- From Melbourne (MEL) to Los Angeles (LAX):
- Departure: 10:25 (Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays)
- Arrival: 06:10 (same day) local time
While tickets are not yet available on Delta’s booking platform, the airline is expected to open reservations in the coming months as the launch date approaches.
Local Officials Celebrate Delta’s Expansion
The announcement has been met with enthusiasm from local officials in Victoria. Lorie Argus, CEO of Melbourne Airport, expressed excitement about the new service, highlighting its positive impact on the local economy and tourism sector.
“The new services will help bring hundreds of extra visitors to our state each week, which will support Victoria’s world-class tourism, dining, and hospitality venues,” said Argus.
Argus also emphasized the importance of the North American market, stating that the partnership with Visit Victoria will play a key role in attracting U.S. tourists. In addition to boosting tourism, the new route will benefit local businesses, providing them with more direct access to the U.S. market.
Cargo Benefits for Victorian Exporters
The flights will also offer additional cargo capacity, enabling Victorian exporters to ship high-value goods directly to the U.S. This eliminates the need for costly stopovers in Sydney, making exports more efficient and cost-effective.
Competition Heats Up: Delta vs. United and Qantas
Delta’s entry into the Los Angeles-Melbourne route will intensify competition with established carriers like United Airlines and Qantas, both of which already operate daily flights on this busy transpacific corridor.
Current Competitors:
- United Airlines:
- Operates the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner
- Offers around 3,341 seats monthly
- Plans to increase to 31 flights per month starting December 2025
- Qantas:
- Uses both the Boeing 787-9 and the Airbus A380
- Provides nearly 9,600 seats monthly
- Maintains daily flights with two aircraft rotations
Delta’s entry is expected to increase fare competition and service quality as airlines vie for market share. This is good news for travelers, who will benefit from more flight options, competitive pricing, and enhanced onboard experiences.
One of Delta’s Longest International Routes
Covering approximately 7,920 miles in each direction, the Los Angeles-Melbourne flight will be one of Delta’s longest international routes. This route length puts it in the same league as Delta’s other long-haul services, such as:
- Atlanta (ATL) to Johannesburg (JNB): 8,433 miles
- Atlanta (ATL) to Cape Town (CPT): 8,127 miles
These ultra-long-haul flights highlight Delta’s capabilities in operating complex, intercontinental routes efficiently, thanks to its modern fleet of long-range aircraft like the A350.
Impact on Tourism and Business
The new Delta service is expected to have a positive ripple effect across various sectors in both the U.S. and Australia:
- Tourism Boost: More American tourists visiting Melbourne, benefiting hotels, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
- Business Opportunities: Improved connectivity for business travelers, fostering trade and investment between the U.S. and Victoria.
- Cargo Growth: Enhanced freight capacity supporting exporters, especially those dealing in high-value goods like pharmaceuticals, electronics, and fresh produce.
Delta Air Lines’ new non-stop service from Los Angeles to Melbourne is a significant development in the world of international air travel. Not only does it strengthen Delta’s transpacific network, but it also boosts Melbourne’s status as a key global destination. With its modern Airbus A350, competitive flight schedule, and premium onboard services, Delta is set to offer travelers an exceptional long-haul flying experience.
As competition heats up with United and Qantas, passengers can look forward to more options, better services, and potentially more competitive fares on this popular route.