Delta ready to launch direct flight to Sardinia, here's what needs to happen to fly from Olbia to New York nonstop

Sardinians, it's time to team up. Delta Air Lines has decided to launch its next summer route to Europe by letting passengers choose the destination, in an unprecedented initiative more reminiscent of a popular referendum than a network planning move. Three Mediterranean islands are in the running: Sardinia (Olbia), Malta and Ibiza.

The American company christened this challenge Route Race: from the Aug. 25 to 29, the members of the program SkyMiles will be able to vote directly from the Delta app on which destination will be the next to enter the 2026 summer schedule. The winning island will be announced about 30 days after voting closes.

An absolute first

This is the first time a U.S. carrier has entrusted a network choice to the public vote. After unveiling flights to Catania last summer, Delta is now putting three iconic Mediterranean destinations on its plate:

• Sardinia (Olbia): wilderness, crystal clear sea, food and wine, and authenticity.
• Malta: millennial history and Mediterranean charm among fortresses and coves.
• Ibiza: the queen of European nightlife, with just the right mix of partying and relaxation.

The trump card for Italy

For Italy, this is a unique opportunity: Bringing Delta flights to Sardinia as well would mean opening a direct channel to the U.S., with obvious tourism and image benefits. But for this to happen, compactness is needed: every vote can make a difference.

Paul Baldoni, Delta's senior vice president of network planning, said, "SkyMiles members and our employees are at the center of everything we do. With the Route Race We celebrate their influence by giving them a voice on where they want to fly and allowing them to help shape our global network."

Terms & Conditions

• Only SkyMiles members at least 18 years old can vote.
• The voting options are Sardinia, Malta or Ibiza.
• The voting period runs from 7 a.m. EST on August 25 to 5 p.m. EST on August 29, 2025.
• You can vote only through the Fly Delta app, after logging in with your SkyMiles account.
• Each member can vote only once during the entire period: it will not be possible to change the choice.
• The outcome will be determined by the combined vote of SkyMiles members and Delta employees and will be announced approximately 30 days after the polls close.
• Delta reserves the right to suspend or modify the campaign in case of fraud or technical problems, and to disqualify those who manipulate the voting process.
• There is no prize or compensation for those who participate in voting.
• By voting, Delta may use your choice to send you marketing communications related to the winning destination.

In conclusion

Not a few Americans will be betting on Sardinia, but what is certain is that if we Italians get involved as well, we should be able to move the needle toward Olbia airport. Of course, if it happens, the Barbone will be on the inaugural flight next summer.

• Skymiles