Delta Air Lines is set to elevate international travel by launching a new thrice-weekly service between Melbourne and Los Angeles starting December 3, 2025. This new route will be the airline’s third to Australia, following its year-round service between Los Angeles and Sydney, as well as seasonal flights to Brisbane. The addition of Melbourne strengthens Delta’s growing presence in the Australian market, giving passengers more options when traveling to and from the U.S. West Coast.
The Melbourne-Los Angeles route represents a strategic expansion for Delta, tapping into a highly competitive yet lucrative market. While the airline will face competition from both United Airlines and Australia’s Qantas Airways, this move demonstrates Delta’s commitment to expanding its network and offering travelers more flexibility when flying between the U.S. and Australia.
The service will operate on a Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday schedule, allowing travelers to choose from multiple departure times, making it easier to plan trips around their schedules. The flight time is estimated at around 15 hours, providing plenty of opportunity to relax and enjoy the amenities offered onboard.
Delta will operate the new route with one of its flagship aircraft, the Airbus A350-900. This modern plane is well-suited for long-haul flights, offering a variety of cabin options to ensure maximum comfort for all passengers. The aircraft features business, premium economy, and economy cabins, allowing Delta to cater to a range of travelers, from those seeking luxury to those looking for an affordable yet comfortable travel experience.
The business class cabins will provide passengers with lie-flat seats, direct aisle access, and premium dining options, making the journey across the Pacific as pleasant as possible. Premium economy offers additional space, wider seats, and more attentive service, while economy cabins feature the comfort Delta is known for, along with in-flight entertainment options and Wi-Fi.
What makes Delta’s new service particularly noteworthy is that it means all three major airline alliances SkyTeam, Oneworld, and Star Alliance will have a presence on the Los Angeles-Melbourne route. Delta is part of the SkyTeam alliance, while Qantas belongs to Oneworld, and United is a member of the Star Alliance. This inter-alliance competition offers travelers a variety of choices when booking flights, whether they prioritize loyalty programs or seek the best deals.
This move also signals the growing importance of Melbourne as an international hub for both leisure and business travelers. Known for its vibrant arts scene, world-class food culture, and bustling business environment, Melbourne is a popular destination for tourists and professionals alike. The new route will enhance accessibility to the city for those traveling from the U.S., offering more convenience and connection opportunities.
Delta’s new Melbourne-Los Angeles service reflects the airline’s continued investment in expanding its global footprint. The addition of a new route to Australia is an exciting development, not just for the airline, but for travelers seeking more options for flying between the U.S. and Australia. With the promise of more flexibility and comfort on long-haul journeys, this service will undoubtedly attract those looking for new experiences and greater convenience in their travel plans.
As Delta’s service kicks off in December, travelers can expect competitive fares, exceptional service, and a seamless travel experience as the airline continues to strengthen its international network and provide passengers with more reasons to fly.