Delta Air Lines (DL) is set to strengthen its transpacific presence by introducing a new direct route connecting Los Angeles (LAX) and Melbourne (MEL). Starting in December, the airline will offer three weekly flights, providing a boost to connectivity between the United States and Australia. This move is expected to benefit both travelers and the Victorian economy through increased accessibility, tourism growth, and business connections.
Delta Air Lines’ Los Angeles to Melbourne Route
Delta’s latest expansion introduces nonstop service between Los Angeles and Melbourne, offering travelers greater convenience and affordability. The flights will be operated using the Airbus A350, a fuel-efficient and passenger-friendly aircraft.
Flight Schedule
| Departure | Arrival | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles (LAX) | Melbourne (MEL) | 9:25 PM | 8:15 AM | Mon, Wed, Fri |
| Melbourne (MEL) | Los Angeles (LAX) | 10:25 AM | 6:10 AM | Wed, Fri, Sun |
This expansion will add 86,000 additional seats per year, helping to meet growing demand for transpacific travel. The increased capacity will also promote competitive airfare pricing, making travel between the U.S. and Australia more affordable for leisure and business travelers.
Seamless Connections Through LAX
Delta’s LAX hub will offer passengers smooth connections to over 40 destinations across the United States and Latin America, making it easier for travelers to continue their journeys beyond Los Angeles.
Economic and Tourism Benefits for Victoria
Boost to Tourism Revenue
Victoria’s tourism industry is expected to see major benefits from Delta’s new route. The U.S. ranks as the fourth-largest international market for Victoria, with more than 200,000 U.S. visitors arriving in the year ending September 2024. These visitors contributed about $358 million in tourism-related revenue, with further growth expected from the increased flight capacity.
Marketing and Collaboration Efforts
The new route is part of a collaboration between the Allan Labor Government and Melbourne Airport, supported by the Industry Partnerships Program (IPP). Through this program, Visit Victoria will match industry funding to enhance marketing efforts and attract more international tourists.
Government and industry leaders have emphasized the significance of the route for local businesses and economic growth:
- Steve Dimopoulos, Minister for Tourism, Sport, and Major Events:
“These new Delta flights will support Victoria’s tourism industry, benefiting local businesses, hotels, and restaurants while making travel more accessible for families.” - Colin Brooks, Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing:
“More flights mean increased competition, lower airfare costs, and greater economic opportunities for tourism and trade.” - Danny Pearson, Minister for Economic Growth and Jobs:
“Direct flights from LA will enhance trade relationships with North American partners and strengthen Victoria’s economy.” - Lorie Argus, CEO of Melbourne Airport:
“Delta’s entry into the Pacific route will help restore pre-pandemic flight capacity and improve business connectivity.”
Why This Move Matters
Delta’s Los Angeles-Melbourne route marks a strategic step forward for both the airline and Victoria. Key benefits include:
- Increased seat availability: With 86,000 additional seats per year, more travelers will have access to convenient transpacific travel.
- Competitive pricing: The presence of another major airline on this route is expected to drive down airfare costs.
- Stronger business ties: Direct flights will enhance trade and investment opportunities between the U.S. and Australia, benefiting key industries such as manufacturing, tourism, and education.
- Post-pandemic recovery: The new service will help restore flight capacity to pre-pandemic levels, supporting both business and leisure travel.
Connecting Two Continents
Delta’s launch of direct flights between Los Angeles and Melbourne is more than just a new travel route—it’s an opportunity to foster economic growth, boost tourism, and enhance business connections. With increased competition and greater affordability, travelers can expect smoother, more accessible journeys across the Pacific.
As the service begins in December, it promises to be a win-win for passengers, local businesses, and the Victorian economy, helping position Melbourne as a key global destination.