Delta chief hints at Birmingham transatlantic link

Birmingham airport could be targeted for transatlantic service by Delta Air Lines. 

The suggestion came as the boss of the US carrier called on the Trump administration to ensure overseas visitors feel comfortable about visiting the country at a time of stricter border controls.

The airline’s chief executive Ed Bastian told the Sunday Times that “there’s a great market out of Birmingham”.

Delta sponsors Birmingham City football club, newly promoted to the EFL Championship.

The carrier might use new narrow-body, single-aisle Airbus A321LR aircraft to serve region al UK airports outside London. 

When asked whether he was worried that America is now a less welcoming destination, Bastian told the newspaper: “It is a concern and it’s something we have to counter. 

“There’s a political question in the US around immigration, but we need to make certain that people feel comfortable coming here.”

Although domestic demand has plateaued amid the dip in US consumer confidence, international bookings by Americans, especially premium bookings, “are doing very well. Summer is going to be strong. It will still be a very good year - we will be profitable - but unlikely the best ever,” Bastian said.