
Delta Air Lines is set to conclude its service to Geneva, Switzerland, in October, citing a slowdown in transatlantic travel demand. This move comes as the airline simultaneously announces plans to launch new flights to Porto, Portugal, in 2026, reflecting a strategic shift in its European network.
Key Takeaways
- Delta will cease operations to Geneva (GVA) from New York (JFK) on October 20, 2025, after three years of service.
- The airline plans to introduce new nonstop service from New York (JFK) to Porto (OPO) starting in May 2026.
- This network adjustment aligns with shifting transatlantic travel patterns and evolving consumer demand.
End of an Era for Geneva Service
Delta Air Lines will operate its final flight from Geneva Airport (GVA) to New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) on October 20, 2025. This decision marks the end of three years of service to the Swiss city, a move attributed by a Delta spokesperson to "better align with consumer demand." The airline’s president, Glen Hauenstein, had previously expressed disappointment with transatlantic results, particularly among economy-class travelers over the summer.
Data from the U.S. International Trade Administration indicates a nearly 2% decrease in Western European arrivals to the U.S. from May through August compared to 2024, with Switzerland experiencing a steeper decline of over 9%. This broader trend of normalizing transatlantic growth, following a surge in post-pandemic travel, has led Delta to re-evaluate its European offerings.
New Horizons in Porto
In contrast to its exit from Geneva, Delta is expanding its European footprint with new service to Porto, Portugal, scheduled to begin in May 2026. This new route from JFK will operate with a Boeing 767-300ER aircraft, featuring Delta One suites, Delta Premium Select, Comfort Plus, and main cabin seating. Porto represents a growing destination in Portugal, with U.S. to Porto flights increasing significantly in recent years.
This expansion is part of Delta’s broader strategy to bolster its summer 2026 European lineup, which also includes new routes to Sardinia and Malta, chosen by customers and employees. These additions underscore Delta’s commitment to enhancing customer choice and reinforcing JFK’s role as a global gateway.
Strategic Network Adjustments
The airline’s decision to withdraw from Geneva, a city with significant diplomatic and business ties, comes as other carriers like SWISS and United Airlines continue to serve the route. Delta’s exit highlights the challenges of competing in markets dominated by established alliances and the airline’s focus on optimizing its network for profitability and demand. The introduction of Porto flights signifies Delta’s proactive approach to capturing growth in popular leisure destinations across Southern Europe.
### Sources
- Delta to end Geneva flights in October, The Points Guy.
- Delta Air Lines to launch new Porto, Portugal flights in 2026, The Points Guy.
- Ouch: Delta Ends New York To Geneva Flights, Pulling Out Of Market, One Mile at a Time.