MILAN, Italy, Feb 12 (V7N)- Delta Air Lines Chief Executive Officer Ed Bastian on Wednesday sought to reassure international travelers that the United States remains a welcoming destination ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“Hopefully, the World Cup will bring a lot of Europeans, a lot of international visitors into the US market,” Bastian told AFP.

The United States, alongside Canada and Mexico, will host the football tournament from June 11 to July 20, 2026. However, the Trump administration’s strict immigration measures have raised concerns that some international travelers may reconsider visiting the country.

Addressing those concerns, Bastian drew a distinction between immigration and tourism. “Yes, the US has a focus on immigration. This is not immigration. This is tourism,” he said. “As long as people are coming with the proper credentials, they're not having any issues.”

Strong Business Outlook

Delta, which is sponsoring Team USA in Milan, has projected revenue growth of between five and seven percent in the first quarter of 2026, supported by sustained demand from premium travelers.

The airline, a key customer of European aircraft manufacturer Airbus in recent years, announced in January an order for 30 Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, with options for an additional 30 jets.

Unlike several other US carriers, Delta has not operated the Boeing 737 MAX, the aircraft model involved in two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019 that triggered a prolonged crisis for Boeing.

“Boeing is doing a good job of stabilizing the situation,” Bastian said, noting improvements under the company’s new leadership.

“As one of the largest global airlines in the world, you can't rely only on Airbus. You have to have an ability to work with both suppliers,” he added. “We’re now at a point where we’re confident that Boeing is on the good side of recovery.”

END/WD/RH