Delta Air Lines, one of the world’s largest carriers, is marking a monumental milestone—100 years in business. The airline, which has called Atlanta home for more than eight decades, is celebrating its deep roots in Georgia and its journey from a small crop-dusting operation to a global aviation leader.
📍 Georgia Roots: Delta’s story began in 1924 as Huff Daland Dusters, an agricultural flying company in Macon. By the late 1920s, the company transitioned into passenger services, officially adopting the Delta name. In 1941, the airline moved its headquarters to Atlanta, where it played a major role in transforming the city into a global travel hub.
💼 Why It Matters: Delta is one of Georgia’s largest employers, with tens of thousands of workers based in the state. Hartsfield-Jackson, the world’s busiest airport, has benefited immensely from Delta’s growth, helping make Atlanta a powerhouse for business and tourism. The airline’s economic impact extends far beyond the airport, fueling hospitality, commerce, and international trade in the region.
🚀 What’s Next: With a focus on sustainability and innovation, Delta is investing in fuel-efficient aircraft, enhanced customer experiences, and expanded international routes. The airline remains committed to maintaining its leadership in the industry while staying true to its Georgia roots.
💙 Remember the Golden Rule: Delta’s success has always been driven by its people—employees who have kept flights running, customers who have remained loyal, and a city that has supported its growth. As the airline looks to the next century, its legacy in Atlanta and Georgia will remain as strong as ever.
B.T. Clark
B.T. Clark is an award-winning journalist and the Publisher of The Georgia Sun. He has 25 years of experience in journalism and served as Managing Editor of Neighbor Newspapers in metro Atlanta for 15 years and Digital Director at Times-Journal Inc. for 8 years. His work has appeared in several newspapers throughout the state including Neighbor Newspapers, The Cherokee Tribune and The Marietta Daily Journal. He is a Georgia native and a fifth-generation Georgian.
