Alaska Airlines is crossing the pond. In spring 2026, the Seattle-based carrier will launch its first-ever nonstop service to London Heathrow as part of a calculated push into premium transatlantic flying.
“We are seizing this moment to redefine the international experience and level up,” said Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci.
This new London route will bring the airline’s intercontinental tally out of Seattle to five, with a target of at least 12 by 2030.
London calling, Reykjavik ready
Alaska’s Heathrow service will run daily on the airline’s new 787-9 Dreamliners, fitted with 34 fully lie-flat business suites, each with privacy doors and 18-inch entertainment screens.
London is already Seattle’s busiest long-haul market, with over 400 passengers flying between the cities daily. This new nonstop taps directly into that demand, especially among corporate travellers and frequent flyers chasing more premium seats and better mileage earn.
Strategic ties through the oneworld alliance, with partners American Airlines and British Airways, will connect passengers across Europe, positioning Alaska as a more global player without sacrificing loyalty benefits for West Coast travellers.
In the summer high season, Alaska will send daily 737-8 MAX aircraft to Reykjavik, meeting a sharp rise in interest for direct seasonal access to Iceland. It’s a savvy move for both leisure travellers and those connecting into Europe via the North Atlantic.
New livery and farewell to a familiar face
Alaska’s global era comes with a new look. The refreshed 787 livery, deep blues, aurora greens, sweeping lines, and a retro-inspired stripe, will replace the long-serving face of Alaska’s fleet.
Reactions have ranged from nostalgic to enthusiastic. Frequent flyers have praised the cleaner look. Others will miss the iconic face that carried them across decades and time zones.
“Our new 787 exterior embodies Alaska’s transition to a global airline with beauty, grace and a nod to our heritage,” said Andrew Harrison, Chief Commercial Officer.
“As we significantly expand to new destinations around the globe, we’re eager for more and more travellers to recognise our new livery as being Alaska Airlines and appreciate the outstanding service we’ve long been known for.”
Hawaiian Airlines, now part of the Alaska Air Group fold, and upgrades are already in motion. The A330 fleet out of Honolulu will be refreshed with new lie-flat seats, a reworked premium economy product, and modernised main cabin interiors.
Seattle takes the spotlight
Alaska is making Seattle the backbone of its long-haul strategy. The airline plans to base up to 17 Dreamliners at its hometown hub, with new pilot operations coming online to support the expansion.
Service to Seoul-Incheon launches this September, followed by Tokyo Narita in January and Rome in spring 2026.
KARRYON UNPACKS: Alaska Airlines is sharpening its international offering, with London Heathrow set to anchor its transatlantic ambitions. For trade, it means more premium product to sell, stronger alliance connectivity, and another reason to look twice at Seattle as a global gateway.
