Democracy is coming to Delta Air Lines. Delta SkyMiles members and Delta employees will get to choose which island destination joins the transatlantic network for summer 2026.

Democratic Experiment At Delta Air Lines: Vote On Next European Destination

From August 25-29, 2025, SkyMiles members can cast their vote in the Delta app over Delta’s next European destination. Once voting opens, simply navigate to the “Explore and Trip” pages within the app, confirm your SkyMiles credentials, and cast your vote.

Each destination is represented by a Delta jet, and “every vote helps determine which route will be taking off next summer.” Final results will be announced around 30 days after voting closes.

Three European Destinations Under Consideration By Delta Air Lines

Here are the three destinations you can choose from:

• Sardinia, Italy: “For customers who love a slower pace but still want adventure, Sardinia is the ultimate mix. Days here can start with a hike along rugged cliffs, move to a hidden swim, and end with fresh pasta and local wine in a seaside village. It’s a place where natural beauty, history, and food all share the spotlight.”
• Malta: “Perfect for customers who want their trip to feel like a story, Malta blends centuries of history with sunny Mediterranean charm. One day you might wander ancient fortresses or UNESCO-listed streets, the next you’re on a boat headed for turquoise bays. It’s a destination for those who want culture, scenery, and relaxation all in one place.”
• Ibiza, Spain: “For customers who love a destination that comes alive after dark, Ibiza is a global capital of nightlife with world-famous DJs, beach parties, and sunset-to-sunrise energy. But the island also knows how to slow things down with hidden coves, laid-back beach bars, and day trips to nearby Formentera for a quieter balance. It’s perfect for those who want their trip to be equal parts relaxation and revelry.”

Paul Baldoni, Delta’s Senior Vice President of Network Planning, explained:

“SkyMiles members and Delta people are at the center of everything Delta does. The Route Race is a celebration of their influence, giving our community a voice in where they want to fly next and inviting them to help shape Delta’s global network. The destinations where Delta flies are more than just dots on a map – they’re gateways to culture, connection and possibility, and this is a chance for our members and employees to bring one of them closer.”

Clever Marketing, But…

Conceptually, I like this promo very much (my vote is for Malta…a beautiful nation) but I do find it strange that you would put it up for a vote rather than carefully consider which of these specific markets could best support air service.

My prediction is that Delta has already decided it will launch service to all three destinations. Let’s wait and see…

(and since United likes to copy Delta, I’m expecting United serve to these destinations as well).

CONCLUSION

From 7:00 am EDT today (August 25) to 5:00 pm EDT on August 29, you can vote on the next Delta transatlantic destinations by logging in to the Delta app. My vote is for Malta, but my guess is that next month I’ll be writing about new service to all three destinations.

Which new Delta destination are you voting for?

image: Delta