--- title: 'From runways to trailheads: Delta and the National Park Foundation work to protect the destinations that inspire travel' url: 'https://news.delta.com/runways-trailheads-delta-and-national-park-foundation-work-protect-destinations-inspire-travel' langcode: en date: '2026-09-23T14:50:45+00:00' updated: '2026-09-23T15:43:10+00:00' --- # From runways to trailheads: Delta and the National Park Foundation work to protect the destinations that inspire travel Through a new partnership, Delta Air Lines and the National Park Foundation (NPF) will create new ways for customers and employees to give back to the places that inspire travel, recreation, appreciation and connection. Staff Writer Sep 23, 2026 11:30am Travel has the power to connect people to the world and encourage a commitment to protect it. By connecting customers from the runway to the trailhead, Delta serves as a gateway to many of America's national parks, helping travelers discover destinations that welcome more than 323 million visitors annually. From Grand Teton National Park and Glacier National Park to Yellowstone National Park, Yosemite National Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, many of the country’s most iconic parks are within a three-hour drive of a Delta-served airport, making it easier for customers to turn their next flight into an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Customers can find even more inspiration for their next national park getaway through [Delta Vacations.](https://www.delta.com/us/en/delta-vacations/vacation-inspiration/national-parks) The partnership will help advance the NPF’s work to keep parks accessible, protected and meaningful, so more people can experience them while giving Delta customers, SkyMiles members and employees meaningful opportunities to get involved and care for these incredible places. “National parks are places that bring people together, spark a sense of wonder and create lasting connections to the earth around us,” said Amelia DeLuca, Delta’s Chief Sustainability Officer. “That spirit of connection is at the heart of Delta, and it’s why this partnership feels so natural. We’re proud to support the National Park Foundation and help ensure that sense of awe and wonder remains part of the experience for generations to come.” “National parks belong to all of us, and protecting them for the future requires all of us to play a role,” said Dawn Rodney, Chief External Affairs Officer, National Park Foundation. “Our partnership with Delta creates an exciting opportunity to connect people with national parks through unforgettable experiences, inspiring park support and building a lasting sense of stewardship that ensures these places are cared for today and far into the future. > [](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DdoYvZ_lThz/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading) > > [View this post on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DdoYvZ_lThz/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading) > > [A post shared by Delta Air Lines (@delta)](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DdoYvZ_lThz/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading) ### Opportunities to protect America’s most beautiful places The collaboration will extend the national park experience beyond the destination itself, with new opportunities for travelers to engage and support America’s national parks before, during and after their trips. Starting today, Delta SkyMiles Members can support protecting America’s most beautiful places through mileage donations on their [SkyWish platform](https://www.delta.com/marketplace/donate-miles). NPF will use donated miles in support of its mission to protect America's national parks and connect people to them. Looking ahead, Delta will introduce airport experiences and unique ways to discover the parks. Customers and employees will be able to participate in hands-on volunteer experiences that support national parks and surrounding communities. ### A shared commitment to our parks Delta and NPF share a commitment to connecting people with nature while safeguarding the irreplaceable landscapes that inspire travel and exploration. Together, Delta and NPF are creating opportunities for travelers to discover national parks while fostering a deep, collective responsibility to safeguard them for future generations. By pairing Delta’s dedication to sustainable travel with NPF’s mission to protect and enhance these treasured places, the two organizations are working together to drive lasting positive connections and impact across the National Park System. Delta’s sustainability strategy is centered on three pillars: What We Fly, How We Fly and the Fuel We Use. Efforts range from improving fleet efficiency and expanding access to sustainable aviation fuel to leveraging technology that helps the airline operate more efficiently. Learn more about Delta's [sustainability strategy](https://www.delta.com/us/en/about-delta/sustainability). ### About the National Park Foundation The National Park Foundation is the nation’s most trusted way for people to support America’s national parks. We work with the National Park Service and partners across the country to fund priority projects that keep parks strong, relevant, and accessible. This work helps ensure parks continue to inspire pride across the country and offer experiences that create meaningful connection. In 2025, NPF funded $100 million in on-the-ground priority projects nationwide, made possible through the generosity of donors, to advance critical work, including infrastructure, restoration, education, and access, ensuring parks continue to endure for generations to come. Learn more at [nationalparks.org](https://www.nationalparks.org/) and follow NPF on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/nationalparkfoundation), [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/NationalParkFoundation/), [X](https://x.com/NationalParkFdn), [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/national-park-foundation/posts/?feedView=all) and [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@nationalparkfoundation). Related Topics: - [Sustainability](https://news.delta.com/tags/sustainability) © 2026 Delta Air Lines, Inc.