Boston Joins The Riviera Power Network As Delta Expands Direct Flights From New York, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Montreal

Boston is joining the French Riviera’s expanding transatlantic network as Delta Airlines announces a new direct service from the Massachusetts hub to Nice. This addition strengthens Delta’s presence in southern France, building on existing connections from New York, Atlanta, Philadelphia, and Montreal. The decision reflects Boston’s strategic role as a major U.S. gateway for both business and leisure travelers, increasing demand for Mediterranean destinations, and the airline’s commitment to boosting long-haul options. With this expansion, the Riviera consolidates its position as a leading European destination for North American travelers, offering more seamless access than ever before.

Delta Airlines is set to elevate transatlantic travel options by launching a new direct route between Boston and Nice, further solidifying the French Riviera as a major international gateway. The upcoming connection, scheduled to begin on May 17, 2026, represents a strategic expansion for Delta and a significant boost for Nice Airport’s growing global network.

This new service marks the seventh direct route from Nice to the United States, underscoring the region’s increasing importance as a hub for both leisure and corporate travelers. The introduction of Boston to the network complements existing U.S. destinations, providing greater flexibility for passengers and reinforcing the French Riviera’s reputation as a premier entry point to southern Europe.

The Boston–Nice route will operate three times a week, with departures scheduled every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. This frequency is designed to cater to a diverse range of passengers, from American tourists seeking Mediterranean escapes to European travelers exploring New England. The timing of this launch is particularly advantageous, aligning with the peak travel season in the Riviera region when demand for long-haul flights typically surges.

For Delta Airlines, this route expands its transatlantic portfolio and strengthens its presence in key European markets. For Nice Airport, it represents an opportunity to enhance its competitive positioning among international hubs in France, outside of Paris.

Nice has steadily expanded its long-haul connectivity over the past decade, and today it stands as France’s second busiest airport after Paris Charles de Gaulle. The airport already serves several major North American cities, including New York, Atlanta, Philadelphia, and Montreal. The addition of Boston not only extends these options but also opens access to a critical U.S. gateway city known for its strong business links, educational institutions, and cultural attractions.

With Boston’s role as a key hub for transatlantic operations, the new route is expected to attract a blend of travelers, from students and professionals to high-end leisure tourists. Additionally, this development strengthens the airport’s position as an essential bridge between North America and southern Europe, especially for travelers seeking seamless access to destinations along the Mediterranean coast.

Nice Airport remains a key growth leader in Europe’s aviation sector, handling 14.8 million passengers in 2024 to secure its position as France’s second-busiest hub. Its development plan prioritizes expanding global connectivity and appealing to high-value travelers, and the addition of the Boston service fits seamlessly into this strategic vision

Currently, Nice serves 122 destinations across the globe through 59 scheduled airlines. This diverse network enables travelers to connect efficiently to various continents, and the addition of Boston is expected to boost overall transatlantic traffic. The service is projected to stimulate inbound tourism, business exchanges, and economic activity across the Côte d’Azur region, benefitting local hospitality, retail, and cultural sectors.

The French Riviera remains one of Europe’s most sought-after destinations, drawing millions of visitors annually with its unique blend of luxury, culture, and natural beauty. The direct link with Boston is anticipated to further enhance its appeal among U.S. travelers by offering greater convenience and reducing the need for connecting flights through Paris or other European hubs.

The new route is expected to significantly boost business travel, connecting Boston’s thriving corporate sector, renowned research hubs, and technology leaders with the French Riviera. As many of these organizations maintain global partnerships, the direct link to Nice opens doors for expanded trade, international conferences, and cross-border investments between North America and Europe.

The introduction of this service is more than a transportation milestone—it reflects the deepening relationship between North America and the French Riviera. By adding Boston to its network, Delta Airlines demonstrates confidence in sustained demand for premium travel experiences and in the long-term potential of the Nice market.

As air travel continues to recover and expand globally, the Riviera’s role as a strategic aviation hub is becoming increasingly prominent. With continued infrastructure investments, route development, and airline partnerships, Nice Airport is positioning itself not only as a gateway to the Mediterranean but also as a critical connector between continents.

Boston becomes the latest U.S. city with a direct link to the French Riviera as Delta strengthens transatlantic connectivity, joining existing routes from New York, Atlanta, Philadelphia, and Montreal to meet soaring travel demand.

When the first flight departs in May 2026, it will mark the beginning of a new chapter in transatlantic travel—one that promises convenience, connectivity, and economic benefits for both regions.