Travelers flying between Los Angeles (LAX) and London (LHR) will need to adjust their plans as Delta AirLines announced the suspension of its direct service on this route, effective May 6th, 2024. This news comes as a surprise to many, as Delta only reinstated the route in summer 2023 after an eight-year hiatus.
While the reasons behind the suspension haven't been officially disclosed by Delta, it's speculated to be a strategic move to optimize their network and resources. Passengers booked on Delta flights after May 6th will be contacted and offered alternative travel arrangements.
Here's a breakdown of what this suspension means for travelers:
Know About: Delta Airlines Name Change Policy
Impact on Existing Bookings:
Passengers with confirmed bookings on Delta for the Los Angeles-London route after May 6th will be contacted by the airline.
You can expect options for rebooking on alternative Delta flights, including connecting flights through one of their hubs like Atlanta (ATL), Seattle (SEA), or Detroit (DTW).
If the alternative options don't meet your needs, Delta is likely to offer a full refund for your original ticket.
Alternative Travel Options:
Several airlines still operate direct flights between Los Angeles and London, offering various options for travelers:
American Airlines (AA): Offers multiple daily flights between LAX and LHR.
British Airways (BA): Operates several daily flights between LAX and LHR.
United Airlines (UA): Provides daily flights between LAX and LHR.
Virgin Atlantic (VS): Maintains a strong presence on the route with multiple daily flights, as Delta and Virgin Atlantic are partners in a joint venture.
Considerations for Choosing an Alternative:
Price: Compare fares across different airlines to find the most affordable option.
Travel time: Consider the total travel time, including any layovers, when choosing an alternative flight.
Convenience: Factor in factors like departure and arrival times, as well as preferred cabin class and amenities.
Loyalty programs: If you're loyal to a specific airline, consider their frequent flyer program benefits when choosing an alternative.
Bottom Line
While the suspension of the Los Angeles-London route by Delta is a significant change, travelers still have numerous options for their journeys between these two major cities. By exploring alternative airlines and carefully considering their needs, travelers can still plan a successful and enjoyable trip.
It's also important to note that the suspension is temporary, and Delta hasn't announced any long-term plans for the route. Travelers who prefer flying with Delta can monitor their website for updates and potential future re-instatement of the service.
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