The Brief Delta Air Lines will launch direct flights between Atlanta and Riyadh on Oct. 23, opening direct access to Saudi Arabia. The carrier becomes the first domestic airline to operate a direct route connecting the U.S. and the Saudi capital. Delta Air Lines will begin operating direct flights from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to Riyadh on Oct. 23, establishing the first direct route to Saudi Arabia by an American carrier. Delta Atlanta Riyadh flight routeWhat we know:The new service operates out of the Atlanta hub using an Airbus A350-900. Saudi Arabia tourism growthWhy you should care:The airline says the Kingdom is rapidly transforming into a global hub for international commerce, sports and tourism.