Alaska Airlines is accelerating its transformation into a global premium airline with the addition of two new transatlantic routes from Seattle: London-Heathrow and Reykjavik. These flights, set to launch in spring 2026, mark the fourth and fifth intercontinental destinations among at least 12 the company plans to connect from its hub airport by 2030.
“We are redefining the international travel experience without compromising our focus on safety, care, and performance. This is just the beginning,” said Ben Minicucci, CEO of Alaska Airlines.
Seattle-London: A Key Connection for Business and Leisure
The London-Heathrow route will offer year-round daily service aboard the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, featuring 34 private suites in business class with fully reclining seats, 18-inch screens, and direct aisle access. This route addresses strong demand, with over 400 passengers traveling daily between the two cities.
With this offering, Alaska Airlines aims to attract both corporate and leisure travelers by providing more schedule options, increased business-class capacity, and enhanced loyalty program benefits. The route is further strengthened by partnerships with American Airlines and British Airways, expanding connectivity across Europe and adding value for customers.
→ Alaska Airlines Launches Seven New Routes to Connect California and Pacific Northwest
Seattle-Reykjavik: Direct Access to the Heart of Iceland
During the summer season, the airline will operate daily flights to Reykjavik, Iceland, using Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft. This destination, coveted by nature and adventure enthusiasts, will also serve as a gateway to the European continent.
A Fresh Look for a New Global Era
Coinciding with its expansion, Alaska Airlines is introducing a new exterior design for its Dreamliner fleet, inspired by the Northern Lights. This livery will debut in January and will be fully implemented across all 787-9 aircraft by spring. The refresh is part of a broader strategy to unify and modernize the brand’s global identity.
Notably, iconic symbols such as the Alaska Native artwork on narrow-body aircraft and Pualani on Hawaiian Airlines planes will remain, preserving the heritage of both airlines.
Seattle Solidifies Its Role as a 787-9 Hub
The company will establish a Dreamliner operational base in Seattle, deploying up to 17 units across its global network. Alongside the existing 737 pilot base, a new center will open in spring 2026 to support 787 operations. Currently, Alaska Airlines has four Dreamliners in its fleet.
Long-haul flights will also include Seattle-Seoul Incheon starting September 12 and Seattle-Tokio Narita from January 7, 2026. A connection to Rome will follow the next spring.
Cabin Upgrades for Airbus A330 Fleet
As Alaska Airlines strengthens its intercontinental presence, Hawaiian Airlines will continue operating Airbus A330s for long-haul flights between the continental U.S. and Hawaii from its Honolulu hub. This fleet will receive upgraded cabins, enhanced lie-flat seats, a premium economy section, and refreshed economy-class seating. These improvements will be complemented by premium products and high-quality onboard service.
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