Delta Launches New Nonstop Routes to Copenhagen and Shanghai
The airline is expanding its network with new nonstop flights from Minneapolis to Copenhagen and Los Angeles to Shanghai
Photo: Delta Air Lines, Airbus A350-900. Courtesy of Delta
Delta is amplifying its global reach and strengthening its recent codeshare partnership with SkyTeam’s newest member with a dual expansion into Europe and Asia, offering business travelers seamless connections to key markets.
In 2025, the carrier will introduce a new nonstop route from Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP) will go to Copenhagen while relaunching its Los Angeles (LAX)-Shanghai (PVG) service, a timely move that will enhance Delta’s foothold in both regions.
According to the carrier, these routes cater to the growing demand for transatlantic and transpacific travel, signaling a strategic push to bolster connectivity for North American travelers across vital business and leisure hubs.
Strengthening Transatlantic Ties
Delta is deepening its European connections with the new Copenhagen route set to debut in May 2025. Joe Esposito, Delta’s Senior Vice President of Network Planning, said, “Delta continues to strengthen its global network and offers unparalleled access to Europe from Minneapolis-St. Paul with this new direct service to Copenhagen, one of Europe’s most vibrant and culturally rich cities.”
Photo: Delta Air Lines, Airbus A330-300 at Amsterdam Schiphol. Courtesy of Aron Marinelli / Unsplash
“This route creates an invaluable connection between two major SkyTeam partner hubs, providing unrivaled connectivity and travel options for customers traveling between Scandinavia and North America,” Esposito added.
This route will operate three times weekly and marks Delta’s seventh European destination from its Northern hub in Minneapolis-St. Paul. It also boosts Delta’s ties with its SkyTeam partner, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), by connecting two major hubs and giving passengers greater access to Europe and North America.
A Boost for Minnesota’s Scandinavian Heritage
Minnesota’s deep Scandinavian heritage adds another layer of significance to this new connection. Brian Ryks, CEO of the Metropolitan Airports Commission, noted, “Many Minnesotans are of Scandinavian heritage, and this new route offers great access to support deeper cultural ties and the continuation of cross-Atlantic business connections between our regions.”
Photo: Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Courtesy of weston m / Unsplash
The new service is expected to serve tourists and business travelers seeking stronger ties between the Upper Midwest and Scandinavia, offering a vital link for cultural exchange and commerce.
Expanding Opportunities with SAS Partnership
Delta’s recent codeshare agreement with SAS is key to the success of the new route. Through this partnership, travelers flying from MSP to CPH will have access to over 80 additional destinations beyond Copenhagen. Meanwhile, SAS customers connecting through Minneapolis will have access to over 110 destinations across the U.S. and Canada.
Photo: Courtesy of Delta Air Lines
Peter Krogsgaard, Chief Commercial Officer at Copenhagen Airport, celebrated the new route. “With a new direct route from Copenhagen to Minneapolis, many travelers will have direct access to one of Delta’s key hubs, offering numerous connections to destinations across North America, the Caribbean, and Mexico,” he said.
The new Copenhagen service will be operated with Delta’s Airbus A330-300 aircraft, which offers four cabin options: Delta One, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort+, and Main Cabin.
Expanding to Asia: LAX to Shanghai
In addition to strengthening its European presence, Delta is also making a bold move in the Pacific. In June 2025, Delta will relaunch its nonstop service between Los Angeles (LAX) and Shanghai (PVG), using its newest Airbus A350-900 aircraft.
This expansion will provide travelers with 17 weekly flights between the U.S. and China, slowly reinstating the routes that had been suspended during the course of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Photo: Shanghai, China. Courtesy of Li Yang / Unsplash
Esposito highlighted the significance of the route to Shanghai, saying, “Our recent investment in the new Delta One Lounge and the broader airport improvements reflects our dedication to elevating every step of our customers’ journey—from the moment they arrive at the airport to their arrival at their final destination.”
As Delta expands its reach to Europe and Asia, the airline is clearly committed to enhancing global connectivity. Rick King, Chair of the Metropolitan Airports Commission, remarked, “We look forward to the new opportunities this will offer our business and leisure travelers alike.”
