Delta Air Lines has announced its first-ever direct flights to Saudi Arabia, with a new nonstop service between its hub in Atlanta (ATL) and Riyadh (RUH). This move is part of a broader strategic partnership with the new Saudi carrier, Riyadh Air, which was announced earlier in 2024. The new route is expected to launch in the fall of 2026 and will be operated by an Airbus A350 aircraft. The introduction of this 7,283-mile flight re-establishes a direct link between the U.S. and Riyadh, a route that has not been served directly for many years. The partnership with Riyadh Air is a key component of this strategy, as the Saudi airline aims to establish Riyadh as a major global aviation hub in line with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 economic diversification plan. Delta's new service will likely benefit from incentives offered by Saudi Arabia to attract new international air services. No specific market reaction to this announcement was available.