Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines is launching a new transcontinental route this winter. Starting in December, the airline will offer nonstop flights between its New York hub at JFK International Airport and Palm Springs International Airport in Southern California.
The seasonal service will operate through the spring of 2025, marking Delta’s first entry into the JFK-PSP market. This new route will directly compete with Alaska Airlines, which already serves the Pacific Northwest region.
Flight Details
Delta will introduce a new Saturday-only route from JFK to PSP starting December 21st, 2024, and continuing through May 3rd, 2025. Flight DL1014 will operate as a PSP turn, departing JFK just before 9:00 AM and arriving in PSP just before 11:00 AM. The return flight will depart PSP at 12:50 PM and land in JFK just after 8:30 PM.
Harry Barrett, Jr., the Executive Director at PSP, spoke about the new service.
“We’re excited to announce that Delta is expanding their services from Palm Springs with a new route to JFK! This means more convenient connections to the East Coast for our passengers, along with Delta’s signature comfort and service. This is a fantastic addition to our growing list of air travel options.”
Onboard the A220-300
The Airbus A20-300, with a capacity of 130 passengers, will be used on the route. First class will have 12 spacious reclining seats in a 2-2 configuration, measuring 20.5 inches wide and 37 inches in pitch. The main cabin will feature 118 seats in a 2-3 layout. The A220 features Delta Comfort+ seats with 18.6 inches of width and 34 inches of pitch. The remaining 88 standard seats also have a width of 18.6 inches but a pitch ranging from 31 to 33 inches. Additionally, the A220 offers a unique feature: a window in the lavatory.
The aircraft offers WiFi for passengers to browse the web or stream content. Each seat features USB and AC power outlets for charging devices, and personal screens with live satellite TV provide additional entertainment options.
Competition with Alaska
Delta’s Saturday-only flights offer significantly less capacity on the route compared to Alaska’s daily service between PSP and JFK on Boeing 737 aircraft. Alaska, which launched this seasonal route last year, also provides WiFi, USB, and AC power ports on its 737s but lacks seatback screens. Passengers can stream IFE to their personal devices.
This marks the third new air service launch for PSP, demonstrating growing demand and expanding network connectivity. This winter, United Airlines will introduce new service between PSP and Washington Dulles International Airport on its 737 MAX 8 aircraft.