Delta Airlines is making waves by launching its very first nonstop flight connecting Utah directly to Asia.
Starting June 12, travelers can now fly straight from Salt Lake City to Seoul, South Korea — a move that’s shaking up the travel scene in the region.
A Warm Welcome at Salt Lake City International Airport
The inaugural flight took off from Salt Lake City International Airport amid a lively celebration at gate A25.
The festivities included live music, delicious food, and welcoming remarks from Salt Lake City’s Mayor Erin Mendenhall, who called this route “a monumental step forward” for the city.
Why Seoul Is a Big Deal for Utah Travelers
Seoul, South Korea’s bustling capital, is known for its rich culture, amazing food, and was famously the host city for the 1988 Summer Olympics.
With this new nonstop service, Utah residents have a direct ticket to explore the city’s vibrant energy — and it’s a chance to boost tourism and cultural exchange between Utah and Asia.
Flying in Comfort with Delta’s Special Anniversary Aircraft
The plane chosen for this route is an Airbus A350-900 decked out to celebrate Delta’s 100th anniversary.
It offers lie-flat seats, cozy bedding, and four-course meals to make the 13-hour journey as comfortable as possible for the up to 306 passengers onboard.
What This Means for Travel Between the U.S. and Asia
The nonstop flight isn’t just convenient — it’s strategic.
Delta’s senior VP of network planning, Joe Esposito, explained that Salt Lake City is growing as a major hub, and the partnership with Korean Air strengthens connectivity between the U.S. interior and key Asian cities.
Enhancing the Passenger Experience on Every Flight
To add a taste of Korea, flights from Salt Lake City to Seoul include authentic Korean snacks and flight attendants familiar with the culture.
Plus, Delta plans to offer free Wi-Fi on these flights by 2026, making long-distance travel even more enjoyable.
Expanding Global Access from Salt Lake City
According to Salt Lake City’s executive director Bill Wyatt, with this new route, about 80% of the world’s population is now just one stop away from Utah.
That’s a huge deal, opening doors for business, tourism, and cultural connections.
Building Bridges Beyond Just Flights
Officials from both Utah and South Korea see this route as more than just a flight path — it’s a bridge fostering innovation, friendship, and mutual respect.
The Korean Consulate’s Jung-taek Lim highlighted their commitment to supporting travelers and strengthening ties between the two regions.
Delta’s Broader Vision: Modernizing Fleet and Going Green
While launching this historic route, Delta is also focused on the future of air travel.
The airline recently unveiled a fresh cabin design, which received mixed reactions but successfully rolled out with its first upgraded plane in February.
In addition, Delta revealed plans for an environmentally friendly, futuristic aircraft aimed at achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, with the first model expected to take flight in 2027.
What’s Next for Delta and Travelers?
This new nonstop service from Utah to Seoul is just one part of Delta’s ambitious plan to expand and innovate.
It offers travelers new possibilities while reflecting a growing global connection. DailyMail.com will keep you updated as more news emerges.