Delta Seeks to Link Detroit Hub with Sao Paulo, Brazil

Delta Air Lines announced today that it has filed with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to begin new, non-stop service between Detroit Metro Airport and Sao Paulo, Brazil, effective November 4, strengthening Detroit’s role as major East Coast international gateway for the world’s largest airline.

In response to this morning’s announcement, Wayne County Airport Authority (WCAA) executives issued the following statements of support:

“Today’s announcement further strengthens Detroit Metro Airport’s role as the second-largest hub and a global gateway for the world’s largest airline, which is a huge part of what makes DTW such a powerful economic asset to Southeast Michigan,” said WCAA CEO Lester Robinson.

“Detroit’s first non-stop service south of the equator will be a boon for our automakers that need more convenient access to the emerging Brazilian market,” said Joe Cambron, WCAA Director of Air Service Development. “The Airport Authority has been working with Delta to make the case for this service for some time and we look forward to supporting its success.”

Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) is the second-largest hub for Delta, the world’s largest airline. Having served more than 31 million passengers in 2009, DTW is the busiest airport in Michigan and ranks as one of the world’s busiest air transportation hubs. DTW, along with nearby Willow Run Airport, is operated by Wayne County Airport Authority, which was established by the Michigan State Legislature in 2002 as an independent government agency responsible for safe and efficient operation of the two airport facilities.

For Delta’s announcement, visit the Delta Newsroom at http://news.delta.com