Alaska Airlines Announces 2026 Direct Flights to Rome, London, and Reykjavik

Published on November 20, 2025

Alaska Airlines is going to introduce its first European routes in the year 2026, thereby expanding its network to include the cities of Rome, London, and Reykjavik that are served from its Seattle hub. This bold and significant step indicates that the airline is entering into a new phase of its international growth having the customers in the Pacific Northwest getting direct access to the most famous cities of Europe. The said routes are not only helping Alaska Airlines in enhancing its transatlantic presence but also ensuring that the ever-increasing demand for travel between the US and Europe is met.

Alaska Airlines Expands to Europe with Rome, London, and Reykjavik Routes

Alaska Airlines has confirmed that it will operate direct daily flights from Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Rome’s Fiumicino Airport (FCO), starting April 28, 2026. The flights will be serviced by Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, marking the airline’s commitment to offering a premium travel experience on its European routes. The addition of Rome to Alaska Airlines’ route network is significant, offering a new and convenient way for North American travellers to explore the Italian capital. The airline will be competing with Delta Airlines, which also plans to launch a similar service to Rome from Seattle, starting in the summer of 2026.

Alongside the Rome route, Alaska will also introduce direct flights to London Heathrow (LHR) and Reykjavik (KEF), two key European hubs. Starting April 2026, these seasonal services will operate from Seattle to London and Reykjavik, offering even more options for U.S. travellers seeking European experiences. The new routes will be operated in partnership with the airline’s Boeing 787 fleet, which will ensure passengers enjoy comfortable and reliable service on long-haul flights.

A Boost for US to Europe Travel

For U.S. travellers, the introduction of direct flights to Rome, London, and Reykjavik offers a wealth of new options for exploring Europe. The new routes will not only reduce flight times but also provide more seamless travel experiences, with fewer connections and layovers. This is particularly appealing for travellers from the Pacific Northwest, who will no longer need to connect through other U.S. airports to reach these destinations. By offering daily flights to these vibrant cities, Alaska Airlines ensures that passengers can enjoy greater flexibility in their travel planning.

The Boeing 787-9 aircraft, which will service these routes, is equipped with advanced amenities such as spacious cabins, enhanced in-flight entertainment, and improved fuel efficiency. This aircraft is a key component of Alaska Airlines’ strategy to compete on the global stage, especially as it enters the European market, where luxury and comfort are often top priorities for travellers.

Impact on the Travel Industry and Tour Operators

The new Alaska Airlines routes open up several exciting opportunities for tour operators and travel professionals. With the addition of Rome, London, and Reykjavik to Alaska’s network, travel agencies can now offer more direct and convenient flight options for clients planning European vacations.

For instance, Rome is a prime destination for cultural tourism, offering historical landmarks, museums, and iconic attractions such as the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Pantheon. Similarly, London remains one of Europe’s top business and leisure destinations, known for its museums, theatres, and iconic sights like Big Ben and the Tower of London. Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, is a gateway to the country’s natural beauty, including its geysers, volcanoes, and blue lagoons. Travel advisors can now build comprehensive European itineraries with easy connections to these destinations, providing greater flexibility for both group tours and individual bookings.

Additionally, the new routes bring benefits to luxury travel segments. The direct flights, especially with Alaska Airlines’ premium cabin on the 787 aircraft, cater to high-end travellers seeking a more comfortable and streamlined flying experience to Europe. This is particularly beneficial for those seeking premium services at competitive prices compared to legacy carriers.

A Promising Future for Alaska Airlines’ European Expansion

Alaska Airlines’ foray into the European market with its direct flights to Rome, London, and Reykjavik represents an exciting development for both the airline and the travel industry. With daily flights beginning in April 2026, these routes will offer a new level of convenience and luxury for Pacific Northwest residents and U.S. travellers at large. As the airline continues to expand its global network, it is poised to strengthen its position as a competitive force in the transatlantic market, appealing to those seeking both affordable and premium flying experiences.

Travel professionals can look forward to greater options for clients interested in these European destinations, with direct flights that promise to make travel to Rome, London, and Reykjavik more accessible than ever before.