Atlanta sources reported that Delta first offered service between Atlanta and Mumbai from Atlanta beginning 2006, but was forced to suspend the service in 2009 because increased competition from Middle East carriers made the route untenable. A press statement issued by Delta“Delta will launch service connecting New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport with Mumbai. This route establishes a link between the financial capitals of two large trade partners and boosts competition, choice and options for customers traveling between the United States and India”.
“Delta’s nonstop service between New York and Mumbai is the latest example of our international growth as we strive to connect the world better than any other airline,” said Ed Bastian, Delta’s Chief Executive Officer. “This route would not be possible without the administration’s ongoing efforts to enforce fair competition in international travel, ensuring that consumers enjoy a wide range of choices as they travel the globe.”
The JFK-Mumbai flight will be operated out of Delta’s premier international gateway at New York-JFK, and will offer convenient connections from more than 50 communities throughout the United States, Canada and Latin America. Demand for flights between the U.S. and India has increased significantly in the last decade, and New York is the largest U.S. market to India with the largest base of corporate customers, said Delta.