New International Flight Routes From the US for 2026: Expanded Global Links to Europe, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East

Published on November 20, 2025

A major wave of global connectivity is set to reshape travel patterns in 2026 as new international flight routes, expanded transatlantic access, and fresh long-haul links are scheduled to be introduced by major US and international carriers. A renewed appetite for global mobility has been observed across key hubs, and these developments have been designed to strengthen ties between the United States, Europe, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. With travelers demonstrating an increased desire to explore emerging leisure destinations and revisit longtime favorites, airlines have responded with bold network strategies centered on convenience, seasonal hotspots, and underserved markets. These new routes have been positioned to benefit both leisure and business travelers, offering smoother access to cultural capitals, coastal resorts, and fast-growing tourism centers across multiple continents.

From Delta’s milestone Atlanta–Riyadh debut to United’s enhanced European portfolio, and from JetBlue’s Latin American growth to the arrival of long-awaited services from Starlux Airlines and Alaska Airlines, 2026 has been shaped into a pivotal year for expanded international tourism. The updates have been aligned with rising global demand, reaffirming confidence in long-haul travel while unlocking new opportunities for exploration around the world.

Delta Air Lines Expands Global Reach With New Middle East and Mediterranean Routes

Delta Air Lines has positioned 2026 as a landmark year by introducing new long-haul connections that strengthen ties between the United States and key destinations abroad. A highlight of the expansion has been the establishment of the first nonstop service between Atlanta and Riyadh in Saudi Arabia, scheduled to begin in October 2026. This route, operated three times weekly with Airbus A350-900 aircraft, has been set to become a significant bridge between the southeastern US and a major Middle Eastern economic center.

In addition to this Middle Eastern expansion, Delta has reinforced its Mediterranean presence through new seasonal routes from New York JFK to Valletta in Malta and to Olbia on the Italian island of Sardinia. These additions have been crafted to appeal to travelers seeking warm-weather escapes, coastal attractions, and heritage-rich landscapes. By focusing on high-demand summer destinations, the airline has aligned its strategy with increasing interest in leisure travel among US passengers. The combination of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean growth reflects Delta’s commitment to diversifying its global portfolio while providing more choices for travelers eager to explore culturally significant and resort-friendly regions.

United Airlines Strengthens Transatlantic Connectivity and Expands Key International Links

United Airlines has unveiled an extensive list of new routes that reinforce its position as a leading transatlantic carrier. Several new nonstop flights from Newark have been planned, including a three-times-weekly service to Split in Croatia. Additional routes to Bari in Italy, Glasgow in Scotland, and Santiago de Compostela in Spain have been announced, offering travelers broader access to destinations known for coastal beauty, historical significance, and cultural heritage.

The airline has also expanded beyond Europe with a new daily nonstop service from Washington-Dulles to Reykjavik in Iceland. This route has been designed to support continued interest in Nordic tourism and adventure-focused travel. Furthermore, United has announced a significant milestone with the launch of nonstop flights from Newark to Seoul, establishing itself as the only US airline to connect the East Coast directly with South Korea’s capital.

These developments showcase a strategic approach aimed at meeting the rising demand for global travel while offering customers a wider selection of routes. Through expanded connections, United has opened more pathways for travelers seeking both traditional European escapes and modern Asian urban experiences.

JetBlue Broadens Latin American, Caribbean, and European Presence

JetBlue has taken a decisive step in strengthening its international footprint for 2026. The airline has planned new routes from Fort Lauderdale to Cali in Colombia, supported by daily flights to Liberia in Costa Rica. These connections have been tailored for passengers seeking convenient access to destinations known for natural beauty, culinary richness, and cultural experiences.

In addition to its Latin American growth, JetBlue has extended its European reach with new routes from Boston to Milan and Barcelona. These services provide business and leisure travelers with more options when traveling between the northeastern US and iconic European cities renowned for architecture, art, and gastronomy.

By increasing its presence in Latin America and Europe, JetBlue has reflected the growing trend of US-based travelers exploring both tropical locales and global cultural centers. The expanded network supports tourism flows from South Florida and New England while offering more seamless international travel opportunities.

Starlux Airlines Introduces First US Route Beyond the West Coast

A significant development for 2026 has been announced by Starlux Airlines, which will introduce a new long-haul route from Phoenix to Taipei beginning in January. This will be the carrier’s first US service that extends beyond the West Coast. Operated with Airbus A350-900 aircraft, the route has been designed to offer a premium onboard experience featuring lie-flat business seating and advanced inflight amenities.

The introduction of this Phoenix–Taipei link has positioned the airline to attract travelers from the American Southwest who have traditionally relied on larger coastal hubs for transpacific flights. The route has been expected to encourage tourism between the United States and Taiwan while providing a smoother gateway for travelers heading onward to major Asian destinations.

Through this expansion, Starlux has contributed to the increasing diversity of Asia-focused travel options within the US market.

Alaska Airlines Debuts Its First Transatlantic Flight

A historic milestone has been prepared by Alaska Airlines with its first-ever transatlantic service. The new route, connecting Seattle to Rome, will be operated with Boeing 787-8 aircraft. This expansion marks the airline’s move into long-haul international travel beyond North America, representing a significant evolution in its global ambitions.

The Seattle–Rome service has been crafted to appeal to travelers seeking access to Italy’s capital, known for its ancient sites, vibrant culture, and world-renowned cuisine. By selecting Rome as its inaugural intercontinental destination, Alaska Airlines has demonstrated a strategic commitment to connecting its Pacific Northwest base with globally celebrated tourism centers.

This route is expected to open new tourism possibilities for passengers eager to explore Europe while offering a more convenient departure option from the US West Coast.

The introduction of nineteen new international routes for 2026 has illustrated a dynamic shift in US and foreign airline strategies, with carriers seeking to diversify their global networks. From Middle Eastern gateways and Mediterranean escapes to Asian metropolises and Latin American cultural centers, these expansions reflect a powerful rebound in international travel. The year 2026 has been projected to deliver unprecedented convenience and expanded global choices for travelers departing from the United States.