Delta Air Lines has announced plans to expand its 2025 route network with two new international flights: one from Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) to Copenhagen, Denmark, and the other from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Shanghai, China. These additions bolster Delta’s transatlantic and transpacific offerings, leveraging partnerships and meeting rising demand as travel to Europe and Asia increases.
New MSP to Copenhagen Route
Delta’s new Minneapolis-Saint Paul to Copenhagen route will begin in May 2025, with service offered three times weekly on an Airbus A330-300. The route supports Delta’s expanding transatlantic network and benefits from the airline’s recent partnership with Scandinavian Airlines (SAS). After SAS joined the SkyTeam Alliance, the new route further strengthens Delta’s connections to Scandinavia.
- Start Date: May 2025
- Frequency: Three times weekly
- Aircraft: Airbus A330-300 with Delta One suites and Premium Select
- Partnership: Delta-SAS SkyTeam alliance
Passengers can expect enhanced travel options between Scandinavia and North America through this route, which connects two major SkyTeam hubs. The new connection offers travelers a gateway to explore both sides of the Atlantic and positions Delta for an ambitious summer schedule in 2025.
LAX to Shanghai Resumes
In June 2025, Delta will resume its nonstop service from Los Angeles to Shanghai, a route that was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This route reopens crucial connections between the U.S. and China, with Delta anticipating increased demand as the aviation industry recovers.
- Resume Date: June 2025 (pending government approval)
- Frequency: Three times weekly
- Aircraft: Airbus A350 featuring the Delta One Lounge access at LAX
Travelers will have access to Delta’s exclusive Delta One Lounge at LAX, featuring a dedicated check-in area and TSA checkpoint. This route also reflects Delta’s cautious re-entry into the Chinese market, joining routes from Detroit and Seattle to Shanghai.
Partnership with SAS
Delta’s recent codeshare agreement with SAS enhances its strategic position in the transatlantic market. As SAS joined the SkyTeam Alliance in September 2024, Delta now offers more options for passengers traveling between the U.S. and Scandinavia. Through this partnership, Delta’s new route to Copenhagen from MSP creates better connectivity for passengers. Additionally, Delta SkyMiles members can now redeem points for SAS flights, expanding loyalty rewards across the Atlantic.
Expanded European Summer Schedule
Delta’s Minneapolis-to-Copenhagen service is part of an expanded summer 2025 schedule that includes nonstops to popular destinations such as Rome. With a planned 5% increase in seats to Europe compared to 2024, Delta is set to offer its largest-ever transatlantic schedule. These strategic moves position Delta as a key player in the highly competitive Europe market, catering to the rising demand for summer travel.
Evolving U.S.-China Air Service
Following global disruptions, U.S.-China air service is rebounding, with Delta’s LAX to Shanghai route marking a significant return. Though service remains below pre-2019 levels, an increase of over 90% in seats across U.S. carriers is expected in the first half of 2025. Delta’s strategy to resume services gradually reflects market conditions while re-establishing its presence in this pivotal market.
Delta’s Fleet Enhancements and Premium Offerings
Delta’s Airbus A330-300 and A350 aircraft feature the Delta One suites, offering passengers an upgraded experience in premium cabins. Additionally, travelers on the LAX-PVG route will benefit from the recently opened Delta One Lounge at LAX, which provides exclusive amenities to Delta One passengers. Delta’s emphasis on luxury experiences continues to differentiate its international service.
Final Thoughts
Delta’s new routes to Copenhagen and Shanghai demonstrate its commitment to expanding international connectivity. These additions reflect strategic partnerships and market demand, providing Delta passengers with enhanced travel options for 2025. With improved alliances and premium offerings, Delta is poised to capture a larger share of the transatlantic and transpacific markets.
