Alaska Airlines Launches Seattle-Rome Nonstop Flights Starting 2026

Alaska Airlines Takes Flight to Europe: Rome Route Marks a New Era

Alaska Airlines, long known for its dominance in domestic and short-haul international markets, is making a bold leap across the Atlantic. In a landmark announcement, the Seattle-based carrier revealed plans to launch its first-ever nonstop flight to Europe, connecting Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) with Rome Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport (FCO) starting in May 2026. This move signals a strategic shift in Alaska Airlines’ operational footprint and positions the airline to compete in the transatlantic travel market.

Historically, Alaska Airlines has focused on serving the West Coast and select international destinations in Canada, Mexico, and Central America. The upcoming Rome route not only represents Alaska’s first European destination but also introduces its new flagship international experience. This includes the deployment of the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, marking a significant upgrade in fleet capabilities and passenger offerings.

With Seattle emerging as a key global gateway and Rome ranking among the most visited cities in the world, this route appears to be a calculated move to tap into high-demand leisure and business travel markets. The announcement comes amid a broader industry recovery and reflects Alaska’s ambition to diversify its route network and enter new global arenas.

Strategic Expansion and Market Opportunity

Seattle as a Global Gateway

Seattle has steadily risen in prominence as an international hub, thanks to its booming tech industry and increasing global business ties. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft have helped transform the city into a magnet for international travel. Yet, until now, Seattle lacked a nonstop connection to Rome, one of Europe’s most iconic capitals. Alaska Airlines aims to fill this gap, offering a direct route that reduces travel time and enhances convenience for Pacific Northwest travelers.

Delta Air Lines, British Airways, Lufthansa, and other European carriers already operate flights from Seattle to cities such as London, Paris, Amsterdam, and Frankfurt. However, Rome remained an untapped destination. Alaska’s entry into this space not only complements existing offerings but also introduces new competition that could lead to more competitive pricing and improved services for consumers.

According to Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci, “Serving Rome nonstop from Seattle is a dream come true. As an Italian American whose parents emigrated from Italy, this is a particularly meaningful addition to our network.” This personal connection underscores the cultural and emotional significance of the route, while also reflecting a broader strategic vision.

“Rome has been at the top of the list ever since we announced our new global gateway out of Seattle.”
Ben Minicucci, CEO, Alaska Airlines

Fleet Modernization and the Boeing 787 Dreamliner

The Rome route will be operated using the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, a wide-body aircraft known for its fuel efficiency, long-range capabilities, and enhanced passenger comfort. This marks a departure from Alaska’s traditional use of narrow-body aircraft and aligns with its long-haul ambitions. The Dreamliner is expected to feature an all-new business class cabin, upgraded interiors, and a refreshed livery to reflect Alaska’s international aspirations.

Alaska inherited these wide-body aircraft through its merger with Hawaiian Airlines in 2024. Until now, Hawaiian has operated the Asia routes to Tokyo and Seoul on Alaska’s behalf. However, with the Rome route, Alaska will take full operational control, signaling its readiness to independently manage long-haul international flights.

This fleet expansion is not just about hardware. It represents a broader investment in infrastructure, training, and service enhancements needed to support global operations. Alaska’s move into the Dreamliner space could also pave the way for additional European or Asian destinations in the years to come.

Competitive Positioning in the Transatlantic Market

The transatlantic market is one of the most competitive and lucrative in global aviation. Legacy carriers like Delta, American, and United dominate this space, often leveraging alliances and joint ventures with European partners. Alaska’s entry into this market disrupts the status quo and offers travelers an alternative, potentially at more competitive price points.

Industry experts see this as a calculated risk. Aviation analyst Sean Cudahy noted, “Alaska Airlines entering the European market is a significant milestone that could reshape transatlantic competition from the West Coast.” The airline’s strong brand loyalty, especially in the Pacific Northwest, gives it a solid foundation to build upon.

Moreover, the airline is expected to leverage its Mileage Plan loyalty program, which is considered one of the most valuable among U.S. carriers. A new loyalty program encompassing both Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines is set to launch in August 2025, potentially increasing redemption options and benefits for frequent flyers.

Challenges and Future Outlook

Operational and Logistical Hurdles

Launching a transatlantic route is no small feat. It requires coordination across multiple regulatory bodies, airport authorities, and service providers. Alaska Airlines will need to ensure it has the operational expertise and ground support necessary to manage long-haul international flights efficiently.

There are also challenges related to crew training, maintenance, and scheduling that come with operating wide-body aircraft. Alaska has historically focused on short- and medium-haul operations, so scaling up to long-haul service will test the airline’s adaptability and resilience.

Additionally, the airline must navigate fluctuating fuel prices, geopolitical uncertainties, and competitive pressures from established transatlantic carriers. Success will depend on Alaska’s ability to deliver a consistent and high-quality international travel experience.

Environmental Considerations

Long-haul flights contribute significantly to carbon emissions, raising concerns about environmental sustainability. Alaska Airlines has committed to various sustainability initiatives, including investing in more fuel-efficient aircraft and exploring the use of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF).

The Boeing 787-9 is among the most fuel-efficient aircraft in its class, which aligns with Alaska’s sustainability goals. However, as environmental regulations tighten and consumer awareness grows, the airline will need to continuously innovate to meet evolving standards.

Efforts to offset emissions, reduce waste, and improve fuel efficiency will likely play a critical role in Alaska’s long-term international strategy. Transparent reporting and measurable goals will be essential to maintaining public trust and regulatory compliance.

Future Expansion Possibilities

The Rome route is just the beginning. Alaska Airlines has indicated that it plans to launch a dozen long-haul international flights from Seattle by the end of the decade. Destinations in Europe and Asia are likely candidates, particularly as the airline gains more experience with wide-body operations.

Potential future routes could include cities like Paris, Frankfurt, or even secondary European hubs that are underserved from the West Coast. Asia-Pacific destinations beyond Tokyo and Seoul may also be on the horizon, depending on market demand and bilateral agreements.

This expansion will be shaped by global travel trends, economic conditions, and Alaska’s ability to maintain profitability while scaling up. If successful, Alaska Airlines could emerge as a formidable player in the transatlantic and transpacific markets.

Conclusion

Alaska Airlines’ announcement of nonstop flights from Seattle to Rome marks a pivotal moment in the company’s history. It signals a transformation from a largely domestic carrier to one with global ambitions. By introducing its first European destination and deploying the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, Alaska is setting the stage for a new era of international travel.

While challenges remain, the strategic rationale behind the Rome route is sound. It leverages Seattle’s growing status as a global hub, addresses a gap in nonstop service to Italy, and aligns with broader industry trends of post-pandemic recovery and route diversification. The coming years will reveal whether Alaska can sustain and expand its international presence, but the journey has certainly begun.

FAQ

When will Alaska Airlines begin flights to Rome?
The nonstop flights from Seattle to Rome are scheduled to begin in May 2026.

What aircraft will be used for the Rome route?
Alaska Airlines plans to operate the route using the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.

Can I book the Rome flight using miles?
Yes. Alaska Airlines will allow travelers to book the Rome route using Mileage Plan miles. A new loyalty program integrating Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines is expected to launch in August 2025.

Sources

The Points Guy, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Alaska Airlines official press releases, IATA, CAPA, Centre for Aviation