Delta Air Lines to launch direct flights from Atlanta to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in 2026

Daily Life As Reforms Signal A New Era In Saudi Arabia RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA - JUNE 20: A billboard shows Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz (R) and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman hanging over a highway on June 20, 2018 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The Saudi government, under Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman, is phasing in an ongoing series of reforms to both diversify the Saudi economy and to liberalize its society. The reforms also seek to empower women by restoring them basic legal rights, allowing them increasing independence and encouraging their participation in the workforce. Saudi Arabia is among the most conservative countries in the world and women have traditionally had much fewer rights than men. (Photo by Sean Gallup/Getty Images) (Sean Gallup/Getty Images)

By WSB Radio News Staff

ATLANTA — Delta Air Lines plans to launch direct flights from Atlanta to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in about a year.

CEO Ed Bastian says it will make the airline the first US carrier with a direct link to the Saudi capital.

Saudi Arabia’s minister of tourism calls it a significant milestone in strengthening global connectivity and says it will open new doors for tourism.

The flights will operate three times a week, starting next October.