Read this article in Spanish or Portuguese. 

Delta is supporting medical professionals on the front lines of the COVID-19 crisis by offering free flights to certain regions of the U.S. that have been significantly impacted.  

Eligible medical volunteers will be able to book round-trip Delta flights free of charge to Georgia, Louisiana and Michigan, where they will work in coordination with the state and local government offices to be deployed to hospitals in areas hardest hit by the virus. Delta will also look at the possibility of expanding this program to other regions in need, including California, New York, and Washington. 

“We are witnessing the heroic efforts of our medical professionals around the world as they combat COVID-19, and we have deep gratitude for their selfless sacrifice,” said Bill Lentsch, Delta’s Chief Customer Experience Officer. “Air travel plays a significant role in making connections in both good and challenging times, and our hope is that offering free travel gives more of these professionals the ability to help in critical areas of the U.S.” 

“Delta is a great member of the Georgia corporate family and their willingness to go above and beyond to assist medical professionals in this difficult time should be applauded,” said Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp. “We look forward to working with Delta and all Georgia businesses in coordination with the Coronavirus Task Force to take the fight to COVID-19.” 

“As home to Delta headquarters, we are grateful that they are continuing Atlanta’s tradition of combining commerce with compassion,” said Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms. “Even in the midst of managing their own financial challenges as a result of COVID-19, Delta has stepped up in an extraordinary way to support our medical professionals, and for that, we are grateful.” 

“Right now, we need as many medical professionals as we can get in Louisiana, and this generous support from Delta will help these heroes get here to care for our people as we fight COVID-19 in New Orleans and elsewhere in our state,” said Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards. “I thank Delta for stepping up and for being a good corporate partner to help Louisiana during this trying time.” 

“Our health care professionals are on the front lines every day helping people fight COVID-19, and they deserve all of our support during this crisis,” said Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. “Delta’s action will help our hospitals and health care providers address the influx of COVID-19 patients and help us all bend the curve and slow the spread of this virus. Additionally, I will continue to work to ensure more medical supplies and personal protective equipment reaches our health care professionals so they can protect themselves and their loved ones.” 

Medical volunteers interested in this program should contact the state offices below to determine their eligibility based on each state’s specific needs. Eligibility and volunteer program details are being managed by the states and will be communicated to participants once approved by the states. Once eligible candidates are identified, Delta will work with the state and local government offices to make flight reservations. The flights will be offered during the month of April to start and can be booked up to three days in advance of travel.  

Georgia: Interested individuals can learn more by reaching out to providers@gema.ga.gov. 

Louisiana: Contact the Louisiana Hospital Association at LHA-HealthPro@lhaonline.org. 

Michigan: Volunteers can visit Michigan.gov for more information.

Delta’s COVID-19 Response Efforts  

In the spirit of social distancing, Delta is asking customers to be mindful during the boarding process and allow a few extra feet between passengers. The airline is also working to give customers the opportunity to change their seat assignments where possible to spread out on board. Keeping Delta people and customers safe during their travel is Delta’s top priority, and Delta is taking numerous steps to ensure airplanes and facilities are clean. Learn more about how Delta is protecting customers and employees from the moment their travel begins, and get an in-depth look at the aircraft fogging process and the HEPA filters onboard our aircraft.  

Delta is also helping in other ways, including dispatching idled aircraft on cargo runs to destinations around the world with thousands of pounds of supplies to keep supply chain lines open and working closely with the U.S. State Department and other governments to help displaced Americans and citizens of other countries return home. Delta has a history of using its aircraft to respond to emergency situations and help with disaster relief.