Alaska Airlines announces first transatlantic route, introducing nonstop service between Seattle and Rome beginning in May 2026. This milestone marks a significant expansion of Alaska’s international network. The new route to Rome positions Seattle as Alaska’s key global gateway. The new route caters to growing demand from Mileage Plan members and US travelers seeking direct flights to Italy.
Route Details
The Seattle–Rome flight will operate nonstop to Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino International Airport (FCO). It will be the first direct link between the Pacific Northwest and Italy’s capital. Rome serves as a growing destination for Americans. The four-times weekly route connects the Emerald City to connect to the Eternal City, giving tourists a new opportunity to explore Italy. From Rome, easy rail connections provide convenient access to other Italian cities such as Milan, Venice, Florence, and Naples. The route also opens opportunities for travelers to explore the Mediterranean via Rome’s main cruise port: Civitavecchia, Europe’s second-largest.
Cabin Classes
Flights on this route will be operated using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, featuring Alaska Airlines’ new global cabin experience. The aircraft will offer a range of seating options, including a premium cabin with lie-flat seats, extra legroom economy seating, and standard economy class, designed to cater to leisure, premium leisure and business travelers.
Premium Experience
Passengers can expect an elevated travel experience with the new Alaska global experience. This will include amenities such as curated inflight dining, advanced entertainment systems, and enhanced amenity kits. The 787-9 Dreamliner is equipped with modern technology to improve passenger comfort on long-haul flights, aligning with Alaska Airlines’ commitment to providing a premium service on international routes.
Potential Future Routes
This inaugural transatlantic service signifies Alaska Airlines’ broader ambitions for international expansion. Following the recent launch of routes to Tokyo and the upcoming service to Seoul, the airline is leveraging its merger with Hawaiian Airlines and access to a fleet of widebody aircraft to explore additional long-haul destinations. Potential future routes under consideration include London and Paris, aiming to meet the growing demand for direct flights from the Pacific Northwest to major European cities.
Conrado’s Thoughts
It is nice to see Alaska start their transatlantic expansion! There seems to be never-ending demand from the US to Italy, so Rome is a sure-fire bet for a summer seasonal flight. As the airline continues their integration with Hawaiian, I expect more flights to Europe and Asia from Seattle. Although Alaska is not (yet, at least) part of the Oneworld Tran-Atlantic Joint Venture, I suspect they will focus on seasonal leisure routes. Should they join the TATL JV, they might launch flights to Madrid or Paris. I am very excited to see what the future holds for Alaska and Hawaiian!
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