SEATTLE- Alaska Airlines (AS) is expanding its transatlantic presence with new nonstop flights to London Heathrow (LHR) and Reykjavik (KEF) from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), starting spring 2026.
These routes mark a strategic step in the airline’s long-haul growth plan, as it prepares to operate up to 17 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and broaden its international network from its Seattle hub.
Photo: Alaska AirlinesAlaska Airlines Adds Two New Destinations
Alaska Airlines is set to launch two new international routes from Seattle (SEA): daily year-round service to London Heathrow (LHR) and seasonal summer flights to Reykjavik (KEF).
The London route will operate using Boeing 787-9 aircraft, while the Reykjavik service will utilize the Boeing 737-8 MAX, optimized for long-range narrowbody operations.
The Seattle–London flight caters to both corporate and leisure travelers, offering lie-flat business class suites and a direct link between the Pacific Northwest and one of Europe’s busiest aviation hubs.
London is Seattle’s most in-demand international market, with over 400 passengers flying daily between the two cities.
The new route enhances connectivity for travelers across the West Coast, Alaska, and Hawaiʻi, leveraging partnerships with American Airlines (AA) and British Airways (BA) to offer expanded travel options and loyalty benefits.
The seasonal Seattle–Reykjavik flight taps into Iceland’s growing popularity among adventure travelers and connects seamlessly to other European destinations. This route also strengthens Alaska Airlines’ European presence and complements its broader long-haul expansion strategy.
Photo: Alaska AirlinesExpanding Global Reach with the Dreamliner Fleet
Alaska Airlines is building a long-haul hub in Seattle by deploying up to 17 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. These aircraft feature next-generation technology, superior fuel efficiency, and a premium cabin with fully lie-flat business class suites, large entertainment screens, and privacy doors.
The Dreamliner rollout begins with service to Seoul Incheon (ICN) on September 12, followed by Tokyo Narita (NRT) in January 2026.
Service to Rome (FCO) is scheduled for spring 2026. These routes align with Alaska’s target to reach at least 12 intercontinental destinations by 2030 from SEA.
A new 787 pilot base is being established in Seattle to support this expansion.
Photo: Alaska AirlinesDebut of a New International Brand Identity
With the introduction of the Dreamliner fleet, Alaska Airlines is unveiling a redesigned exterior inspired by the Aurora Borealis.
The updated livery uses a blend of deep blues and emerald greens, accented by flowing aura lines and heritage-inspired design elements. This new look represents Alaska’s evolution into a global airline while maintaining ties to its legacy.
The Alaska Native emblem on narrowbody aircraft and Pualani on Hawaiian Airlines (HA) aircraft will remain unchanged, honoring both carriers’ brand heritage.
Photo: Alaska AirlinesUpgrades to the Airbus A330 Experience
While Alaska expands long-haul operations with Boeing aircraft, Hawaiian Airlines will continue operating the Airbus A330 fleet on international and mainland U.S. routes from its Honolulu (HNL) hub. These aircraft will undergo major interior upgrades over the next few years, including:
- All-new lie-flat seats in Business Class
- A premium economy cabin
- Upgraded main cabin seating and amenities
These enhancements are aimed at elevating the onboard experience while maintaining the high service standards for which both Alaska and Hawaiian are known.
Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News
Alaska Airlines Announces its First Europe Destination with Hawaiian 787
The post Alaska Airlines Adds Two New Destinations, Unveils New 787 Livery appeared first on Aviation A2Z.
