Delta says it continually evaluates its network based on customer demand. For the Las Vegas cuts specifically, an airline spokesperson cited lower winter demand for the destination.
Industry schedule data cited by The Points Guy indicates that Delta's total departures from Las Vegas are expected to be about 7% lower this winter compared with last year. The broader Las Vegas airport schedule is also expected to see a similar decline in flights year over year.
The changes therefore appear to be focused on matching available capacity with expected demand rather than representing a broad retreat from either Las Vegas or New York.
The strategy is particularly visible in Las Vegas. Delta can reduce regular service on routes where winter demand is weaker while adding flights around a major event such as CES, when business and international travel demand is expected to rise.