Alaska Airlines Unveils Non-Stop Seattle-London Flights in 2026 – The Ultimate Transatlantic Connection You’ve Been Waiting For!

Published on December 9, 2025

Alaska Airlines is about to make your transatlantic travel easier than ever with the launch of its daily non-stop flights between Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and London Heathrow Airport (LHR). Starting in May 2026, the airline will offer direct, year-round service, making it easier than ever for travellers to zip between the U.S. West Coast and the UK’s capital city.

This move marks a significant expansion for Alaska Airlines, connecting Seattle with one of the most important international hubs — London Heathrow. Not only does this direct route save time, but it also brings more flexibility and options for both business and leisure travellers heading to Europe.

The All-New Boeing 787‑9 Dreamliner: A Game Changer for Comfort

The Seattle to London route will be serviced by the Boeing 787‑9 Dreamliner, one of the most modern aircraft in the skies today. Offering unmatched comfort for passengers, the Dreamliner is the perfect choice for long-haul transatlantic flights.

• Business Class: The aircraft will feature 34 fully enclosed lie-flat suites in a 1‑2‑1 configuration, ensuring privacy and comfort for business travellers.
• Premium and Main Cabin: All cabins will offer a comfortable experience, with complimentary meals and Wi-Fi to keep you connected.

Additionally, Alaska Airlines plans to offer Starlink Wi-Fi starting in Fall 2026, offering passengers ultra-fast internet during their journey.

Connecting Seattle and London: A Bold Move for Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines is no stranger to growing its network, and this latest route announcement is another big step forward. The airline has been making waves by securing daily slots at London Heathrow, one of the world’s busiest airports. The availability of these slots ensures that this route won’t just be a one-off but a long-term fixture in the airline’s network.

A Strategic Addition to Alaska’s Network

This new service will connect Seattle, a major hub for Alaska Airlines, with London, further strengthening the airline’s reach across the globe. This marks the airline’s fifth intercontinental destination from Seattle, complementing its existing flights to Tokyo, Seoul, and future routes to Rome and Reykjavik.

For Alaska, this route is part of its broader strategy to expand long-haul services and cater to the growing demand for direct transatlantic flights from the U.S. West Coast. The added capacity on the Boeing 787‑9 Dreamliner makes this a very competitive offering on the Seattle–London route, which traditionally saw travellers connect via the East Coast.

How This Non-Stop Route Benefits You

A Faster, Direct Option for U.S. to UK Travel

For U.S. West Coast travellers, this direct connection to London Heathrow is a game changer. Here’s why:

• Save Time: By flying directly from Seattle to London, travellers bypass the need to stop at East Coast hubs like New York or Chicago, which often require longer travel times.
• More Comfort: The Dreamliner’s spacious cabins, along with Alaska’s renowned customer service, promise a more enjoyable and relaxing flight experience.
• More Convenience: Whether you’re flying for business or leisure, the evening departure from Seattle offers travellers the ability to work during the day before heading to the airport. Plus, the mid-afternoon arrival in London ensures plenty of time for same-day activities.

New Travel Opportunities Across Europe

Alaska Airlines’ strategic positioning at London Heathrow’s Terminal 3 is another benefit. Passengers flying from Seattle can connect seamlessly to a wide range of European destinations. Whether you’re planning a trip to Paris, Rome, or Berlin, Heathrow’s extensive network of flights offers fantastic options for onward travel.

How the Route Will Boost Seattle–London Tourism

This new route isn’t just about getting from point A to point B – it’s about connecting two vibrant cities and boosting tourism.

For Seattle Tourists:

• New Gateways to Europe: With direct access to London, Seattle residents will have an easier time exploring not just the UK, but also the rest of Europe.
• Attracting More International Visitors: This non-stop service will also make it easier for European tourists to visit Seattle, giving the city more global visibility and likely boosting hotel bookings and local tourism.

For London Tourists:

• Simpler Access to the Pacific Northwest: The London to Seattle route is sure to attract more European visitors to explore the iconic sites in the Pacific Northwest, including Seattle’s Space Needle, the stunning San Juan Islands, and the Olympic National Park.

A Quick Look at the Flight Schedule

Here’s what you can expect for flight times (all local times):

• Seattle to London: Departs at 9:40 p.m., arriving in London Heathrow at 3:05 p.m. the following day.
• London to Seattle: Departs at 5:00 p.m. from Heathrow and arrives in Seattle at 6:50 p.m. the same day.

With daily service, travellers can enjoy flexibility and convenience, ensuring that this route fits into even the busiest of schedules.

What Alaska Airlines Has Planned for the Future

As part of its long-term plans to expand its global network, Alaska Airlines has committed to operating up to 12 intercontinental destinations by the year 2030. This Seattle to London route is just the beginning. Future routes are expected to connect Seattle with more global hubs, further cementing the airline’s position as a leader in transatlantic and international travel.

• Slot Leasing at Heathrow: Alaska Airlines has secured its Heathrow slots through a strategic lease with an airline partner, marking a major milestone in this new venture.
• Fleet Expansion: Alaska’s plans to grow its wide-body fleet, particularly with the Boeing 787s, will continue to shape the airline’s expanding long-haul service offerings.

Final Thoughts

Alaska Airlines’ new daily non-stop service between Seattle and London Heathrow is a major move for both the airline and travellers looking to connect the U.S. West Coast with Europe. The Boeing 787‑9 Dreamliner ensures that passengers will enjoy a high level of comfort and convenience, while the route provides easy access to the UK and a gateway to further European travel. This exciting development strengthens Seattle’s position as a key international hub, opening new doors for tourism, business, and cultural exchange.

As the airline moves forward with its ambitious international expansion plans, it’s clear that Alaska Airlines is making strides to compete with other major carriers in the transatlantic market. Keep an eye out for more announcements as the route takes off in May 2026!

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