From Malta to New York: A New Era of Transatlantic Travel

From the late 1960s onwards, there has been a bond between the Maltese Islands and New York City; it’s a story of migration, community, nostalgia and achievement that is profound and compelling as any Mediterranean legend. Malta blends history, culture and resilience, and the journey of its people across the oceans to faraway lands has a rich narrative. Now, a new chapter in transatlantic travel is starting to unfold. In a move hailed by both tourism leaders and the Maltese diaspora, in June 2026, Delta Air Lines, in partnership with Malta International Airport (MIA) and supported by Visit Malta, announced that they will begin running direct flights from New York (JFK) to Malta. This milestone opens a new chapter for cultural exchange, luxury travel and strategic connectivity between the U.S. and the Mediterranean.

A Transatlantic Story: Malta and New York’s Shared Past

The exodus of the Maltese to New York City was propelled by economic necessity and dreams of prosperity. After World War II, Malta struggled with economic hardship; a rapidly growing population, scarce natural resources and a limited industry. For the younger generations, the beacon of hope lay in the New World, particularly the bustling East Coast of America, where secure futures seemed brighter and easier.

The earliest Maltese pioneers in New York included Carmelo Caruana and Joseph Edward Doublet, whose stories set the tone for the thousands that followed. Remembered as the ‘Merchant Prince’, Caruana’s ambitious spirit led him to build a commercial legacy, and his settlement was cemented by marrying into American society through a diplomat’s daughter. On the other hand, Doublet exemplifies the maritime link between the countries. It’s no coincidence that many Maltese immigrants instantly gravitated toward roles connected to shipping, docks, and railroads, with Malta’s long history as a maritime hub. Doublet enriched this connection by being an anchor for new arrivals: securing jobs, providing shelter for new arrivals, helping with integration, and eventually founding the Malta Society of New York.

Though the Maltese population in New York was relatively modest in number, the community flourished. Deep roots were laid in Brooklyn and expanded into Queens, Manhattan, the Bronx and Long Island. The communities flourished through faith and family; festas, food and social gatherings meant the Mediterranean warmth thrived amidst the crowded immigrant neighbourhoods, and Malta’s voice was maintained, thousands of miles from the islands. Central to preserving this heritage is the Maltese Centre in Astoria; since opening its doors in 1982, it has become a living hub where language, tradition and culture are preserved. You will find Maltese language classes, festive gatherings and religious observances, all of which provide an important link to ‘home’ for its members, ensuring the island spirit continues to thrive. 

Delta’s Direct Flight: A New Chapter of Connection

This announcement of direct flights between Malta and New York, starting in 2026, symbolises the connection of Malta and New York throughout history and is only intensified by the modern conveniences of air travel. A gateway is being opened, one that connects a land of honey-coloured limestone streets, where ancient medieval fortresses perch above crystal-clear waters and history seeps from every stone, to the hustle, bustle and life of the most populous city in the United States. 

Luxury travellers gain seamless access from North America and ease of access to Malta’s luxury hospitality scene, from iconic hotels like The Phoenicia and Iniala Harbour House to culinary gems like Ta' Frenc in Gozo, stands to welcome a new wave of high-spending visitors seeking Mediterranean refinement with global convenience. 

But this route is not only beneficial to the thriving tourism industry in Malta. It strengthens the bond for the Maltese diaspora, offering easier access to family and heritage whilst giving businesses a strategic foothold in the USA. Here lies the promise of easier opportunities for businesses to forge transatlantic connections and partnerships and the chance for cultural exchange to flourish at an even more exciting pace.

As Malta continues to carve out an innovative future in finance, tourism, and the arts, it carries forward its heritage shaped by knights, migrants, and dreamers across oceans and generations. The island’s compact size belies its strategic importance; with efficient flights throughout the continent, Malta enables effortless European exploration wrapped in luxury and history.

Connecting the Past, Present and Future

Malta may be small, but its legacy is unmatched, so whether you’re planning your next luxury escape, seeking new cross-continental partnerships, or simply returning to rediscover your roots, the Malta–New York direct flight offers more than convenience; it redefines possibility.

As a gateway to Europe and the wider Mediterranean, Malta’s place on the global stage is stronger than ever before. And so the story that began with migration continues, but this time, Malta and New York, once separated by oceans, are now connected in hours. Temple Magazine will be following the impact of this new route closely with curated travel recommendations for the discerning transatlantic traveller. Stay tuned.