Delta Launches Riyadh Route Despite 'Softer Than Anticipated' Demand

Delta Air Lines is facing disappointing demand for its new route to Saudi Arabia, but it's pressing ahead with the launch. The airline's president acknowledged that initial sales were 'softer than anticipated,' but he expected this to be a temporary situation.

The nonstop service from Atlanta to Riyadh will start on October 23, initially operating daily before reducing to three weekly flights. Delta is using its Airbus A350-900 fleet for the route, which features 40 Delta One suites and 195 economy seats.

As part of a limited-time SkyMiles award sale, round-trip economy seats are available from 30,000 SkyMiles plus $77 in taxes and fees. Passengers with an eligible American Express card can combine this with the airline's TakeOff 15 perk for a further 15% reduction.

The service is tied to Delta's partnership with Riyadh Air, which has been rapidly expanding its network since launching operations in June. The Saudi airline plans to serve over 100 destinations by 2030, making it a significant player in the Middle East market.