Delta will launch direct flights from Fresno to Atlanta beginning June 2024. Delta photo

A new major route will be available to Fresno travelers heading east next year.

Delta Air Lines announced on Friday the launch of daily nonstop flights between Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) starting on June 7, 2024.

Atlanta will be FAT’s farthest direct route and will offer passengers more convenient travel options and streamlined connectivity, according to a news release.

Known as the busiest airport in the world, ATL will provide Central Valley travelers faster and easier access to the East Coast, European destinations, Africa, the Caribbean and more.

“Whether traveling for business or pleasure, the people of Fresno deserve an airport that gets them where they need to go. The addition of this service to Atlanta helps propel us towards that goal,” said Mayor Jerry Dyer. “Providing nonstop service to such a massive transportation hub is huge for our residents. I want to thank Delta Air Lines for once again investing in Fresno. Great cities have great airports, and these are the types of moves that make our city great.”

Delta Air Lines will operate the Atlanta route using the Boeing 737-800 aircraft .

The outbound flight departs FAT at 10:50 p.m. and arrives in ATL at 6:26 a.m. offering a slew of morning connections.

The ATL route will complement Delta’s current nonstop service between Fresno and Salt Lake City.

Delta is preparing to reopen nonstop service from Atlanta to Santa Barbara and has resumed flying to Oakland, Reno and Nevada.

According to a press release from FAT, Atlanta boasts the third largest concentration of Fortune 500 companies in the country and a variety of tourist attractions. Nonstop air service to Atlanta increases Fresno’s visibility as an attractive city with diverse service to major air transportation hubs.

 “Delta Air Lines’ launch of Atlanta service is truly a big deal for Fresno and the Central Valley,” said FAT Director of Aviation Henry Thompson.  “Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport consistently ranks as one of Fresno Yosemite International Airport’s Top 10 Markets where travelers from the Central Valley are flying and we extend our appreciation to Delta Air Lines for its commitment to our region.”