Commercial Aviation
Alaska Airlines Expands Global Reach with Boeing 787 Fleet from Seattle Hub
Alaska Airlines leverages Boeing 787 Dreamliners and Hawaiian merger to transform Seattle into a competitive international aviation gateway with new Asia/Europe routes.
In a bold move to redefine its role in international aviation, Alaska Airlines is expanding its fleet and long-haul route network with the strategic deployment of Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. This expansion is more than a fleet update, it’s a transformative shift that positions Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) as a major global gateway. With the recent exercise of purchase rights for five additional Dreamliners, Alaska now has 13 of these long-haul aircraft in its pipeline, signaling a serious commitment to international growth.
This strategic pivot follows Alaska’s $1.9 billion acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines in September 2024, a move that provided the carrier with instant access to widebody aircraft, international route authorities, and a seasoned pilot workforce. The merger has enabled Alaska to fast-track its intercontinental ambitions, including new routes to Tokyo and Seoul, with more destinations expected to follow. As the airline prepares to launch a dedicated 787 pilot base in Seattle by March 2026, the Pacific Northwest is emerging as a new battleground for transpacific and transatlantic air travel.
The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner is central to Alaska Airlines’ international strategy. With 13 aircraft either delivered or on order, the Dreamliner offers the range, efficiency, and passenger comfort needed for long-haul routes. These aircraft consume approximately 25% less fuel per seat than older models, thanks to advanced aerodynamics and composite materials that make up 50% of the airframe. The Dreamliner also requires 30% fewer maintenance hours, reducing operational costs.
Alaska plans to base all of its 787 operations in Seattle, supported by a new pilot domicile set to open in March 2026. The airline is also investing in a premium onboard experience, including lie-flat business-class suites and upgraded premium economy cabins. These enhancements are designed to compete with legacy carriers like Delta, whose A330-900neo aircraft feature high-end amenities such as 29 Delta One suites with sliding doors.
The first Alaska-operated long-haul routes using Hawaiian’s aircraft began in 2025, with flights from Seattle to Tokyo and Seoul. Rome is scheduled to launch in May 2026, marking Alaska’s first European destination and the debut of its flagship international product. By the end of the decade, the airline aims to serve at least 12 intercontinental destinations from Seattle.
“This is the first phase in what we’re seeing with the company executing on their promise of growth as a result of the merger.”, Will McQuillen, Chair of the Alaska Airlines Master Executive Council at ALPA
While the Dreamliner garners headlines, Alaska is also investing heavily in its narrowbody fleet to support domestic connectivity. The airline recently exercised options for 12 more Boeing 737 MAX 10s, complementing its existing orders for 45 MAX 10s and 82 MAX 9s. The MAX 10 offers a 230-seat configuration and 15% better fuel efficiency per seat than older 737 models, making it ideal for high-volume domestic routes feeding into Seattle’s international departures.
These aircraft will replace aging 737-900s and increase capacity at SEA, where Alaska already carries over 21 million passengers annually. Despite Boeing’s ongoing certification delays, which have pushed MAX 10 deliveries into 2026–2027, the additional capacity is expected to boost Alaska’s passenger throughput by up to 15% by 2027.
This dual-pronged fleet strategy ensures that Alaska has the right aircraft for both short-haul and long-haul operations, creating a seamless network that connects regional markets to international destinations via its Seattle hub. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport handled a record 52.6 million passengers in 2024, a 3.45% increase from the previous year. Alaska Airlines dominates this hub with a 49.21% market share, operating primarily out of Concourses C, D, and the North Satellite terminal. The airport’s geographic location, closer to Asia than many West Coast alternatives, gives Alaska a competitive edge for transpacific routes.
Infrastructure developments, including a new international arrivals facility opened in 2022, have doubled customs processing capacity, enabling SEA to handle increased international traffic. Alaska plans to leverage these improvements to launch new routes to Asia and Europe, with future destinations under consideration including London, Paris, Delhi, Bangkok, and Manila.
With over 100 domestic connections feeding into SEA, Alaska is well-positioned to create a spoke-and-hub system that supports long-haul operations. This model mirrors the strategies of larger legacy carriers but is uniquely tailored to Alaska’s strengths and market position in the Pacific Northwest.
Delta Air Lines, holding a 19.82% market share at SEA, is not backing down. The SkyTeam carrier recently announced new nonstop routes from Seattle to Rome and Barcelona, launching in May 2026, just weeks ahead of Alaska’s own Rome debut. Delta’s premium-heavy configuration and established international network present formidable competition.
However, Alaska counters with deeper domestic connectivity, serving 104 North American destinations from Seattle compared to Delta’s 58, and strong regional brand loyalty. The airline’s Mileage Plan loyalty program also offers more flexible redemption options than Delta’s SkyMiles, giving it an edge among frequent flyers.
This rivalry is reshaping the competitive landscape at SEA, transforming it into a battleground for transatlantic and transpacific supremacy. Alaska’s hometown advantage and strategic investments provide a solid foundation, but sustained success will depend on execution and customer response.
Alaska Airlines is no longer just a regional powerhouse, it’s positioning itself as a global player. The strategic acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines, combined with a robust Dreamliner fleet and a dedicated international hub in Seattle, marks a turning point for the carrier. These moves enable Alaska to compete directly with legacy airlines on long-haul routes while leveraging its existing strengths in domestic connectivity and customer loyalty.
As the airline rolls out new international services and refines its premium product, the coming years will be critical in determining whether Alaska can sustain its global ambitions. With the right mix of fleet, infrastructure, and market strategy, the airline is well on its way to transforming Seattle into a true global aviation hub. What is the significance of Alaska Airlines’ Boeing 787 order? When will Alaska’s new international routes begin? How does the merger with Hawaiian Airlines impact Alaska’s strategy? Sources: The Points Guy, Reuters, AP News, Boeing 787 Overview, Port of Seattle, Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines’ Bold Bet: Transforming Seattle into a Global Aviation Hub with Boeing 787 Dreamliners
Fleet Expansion and Strategic Integration
Boeing 787 Dreamliner: The Backbone of Global Growth
Narrowbody Modernization to Support Hub Feed
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport: The New Global Gateway
Infrastructure and Market Leadership
Head-to-Head with Delta Air Lines
Conclusion
FAQ
The order enables Alaska to expand into long-haul international markets, a capability it previously lacked due to a narrowbody-focused fleet.
Flights to Tokyo began in May 2025, and service to Seoul will launch in September 2025. Rome is scheduled to launch in May 2026. More routes are planned through 2030.
The merger provided Alaska with widebody aircraft, international route authorities, and pilot resources, accelerating its global expansion plans.
Photo Credit: Alaska Airlines
Route Development
Chicago O’Hare Launches Orchard-Inspired Concourse D Expansion
O’Hare International Airport’s $1.3B Concourse D with orchard-inspired design and 19 flexible gates is set to open in late 2028.
This article is based on an official press release from the City of Chicago.
On Thursday, February 5, 2026, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) released a detailed animated preview of “The New Concourse D” at O’Hare International Airports. Formerly known as Satellite Concourse 1, this $1.3 billion infrastructure project represents a pivotal phase in the airport’s massive ORDNext expansion program.
According to the official announcement, the new facility is currently under construction following a groundbreaking ceremony in August 2025. Scheduled to open to the public in late 2028, Concourse D is designed to modernize the passenger experience with a focus on wellness, natural light, and operational flexibility. The project is being led by the architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), alongside partners Ross Barney Architects and Juan Gabriel Moreno Architects (JGMA).
The newly released video highlights a dramatic shift in design philosophy for the airport, moving away from industrial aesthetics toward a “nature-infused” environment that pays homage to the site’s history.
The central theme of the new concourse is a direct nod to O’Hare’s pre-aviation history as an apple orchard, originally known as Orchard Field, which gave the airport its “ORD” IATA code. The City of Chicago press release details how the interior architecture features tree-like structural columns that branch out to support the roof, creating a canopy effect intended to reduce travel stress.
A key feature of the design is the “Oculus,” a central skylight that serves as the building’s architectural focal point. The design team emphasizes that this feature is not merely aesthetic but functional, directing natural daylight deep into the building to aid in intuitive wayfinding.
“We designed the new satellite concourse to create a frictionless experience for travelers… The gate lounges feature column-free expanses for easy wayfinding, high ceilings to optimize views, and a daylighting strategy to help align the body’s natural rhythms.”
, Scott Duncan, Design Partner at SOM
The facility will include over 20,000 square feet of airline lounge space and 30,000 square feet dedicated to retail and concessions. In a move to accommodate modern traveler needs, the design also incorporates a dedicated children’s play area and multi-level communal seating equipped with integrated charging stations. Beyond the aesthetics, Concourse D is a critical component of the broader ORDNext (formerly O’Hare 21) capital program. The expansion is necessary to maintain O’Hare’s status as a global hub by increasing gate capacity and flexibility.
According to the CDA, the concourse will add 19 new flexible gates to the airport’s portfolio. These gates are designed with versatility in mind, capable of accommodating:
This flexibility allows the airport to adjust to shifting market demands between domestic and international travel without requiring physical construction changes.
“By breaking ground on Concourse D, we are taking a critical first step toward enhancing how the airport welcomes and serves more than 80 million passengers each year.”
, Michael McMurray, CDA Commissioner
Mayor Brandon Johnson emphasized the economic impact of the project, noting that it serves as an economic engine for the region. The city estimates the project will create approximately 3,800 construction jobs.
The rebranding of “Satellite 1” to “Concourse D” and the release of this high-fidelity animation signal a clear intent by Chicago officials to solidify the project’s identity before the steel rises significantly. By leaning heavily into the “Orchard” narrative, the CDA is attempting to differentiate O’Hare from other sterile, glass-and-steel global hubs.
From an operational standpoint, the “flexible gate” configuration is the most significant detail. As airline fleets evolve and the mix between wide-body international haulers and narrow-body domestic hoppers fluctuates, static gates can become liabilities. The ability to park two narrow-bodies in the footprint of one wide-body maximizes the return on Investments for this $1.3 billion asset, ensuring it remains relevant regardless of how airline strategies shift in the 2030s.
The project is currently active, with construction managed by the joint venture AECOM Hunt Clayco Bowa. The timeline provided by the city outlines the following key milestones:
Concourse D is located just south of the existing Concourse C (Terminal 1) and will be connected via a new walkway extension. It serves as the precursor to the eventual demolition of Terminal 2, which will make way for the future O’Hare Global Terminal.
Where is the new Concourse D located? When will Concourse D open? Why is it called the “Orchard” design? How much will the project cost?
O’Hare Unveils “Orchard-Inspired” Vision for New Concourse D
Design Philosophy: Returning to the Orchard
Operational Capacity and ORDNext Strategy
AirPro News Analysis
Timeline and Next Steps
Frequently Asked Questions
It is located directly south of the existing Concourse C at Terminal 1. It will be connected to the main terminal complex via a new walkway extension.
The City of Chicago and the Chicago Department of Aviation have scheduled the opening for late 2028.
The design pays tribute to “Orchard Field,” the original name of the airfield that became O’Hare. The interior columns resemble trees, and the layout emphasizes nature and light.
The budget for Concourse D is set at $1.3 billion.
Sources
Photo Credit: City of Chicago
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
EgyptAir Receives First Airbus A350-900 to Modernize Fleet
EgyptAir accepts its first Airbus A350-900, starting a fleet overhaul with 16 aircraft to expand long-haul routes and improve efficiency.
This article is based on an official press release from Airbus and additional fleet data.
EgyptAir has officially taken delivery of its first Airbus A350-900, registered as SU-GGE, marking a significant milestone in the carrier’s modernization strategy. The handover, which took place on February 9, 2026, positions the Cairo-based airline as the first operator of the A350-900 in North Africa.
According to an official press release from Airbus, this aircraft is the first of 16 A350-900s ordered by the Egyptian flag carrier. The delivery underscores EgyptAir’s commitment to phasing out older wide-body jets while expanding its long-haul network capabilities to new destinations in North America and Asia.
The arrival of the A350-900 represents a pivotal shift in EgyptAir’s long-haul operations. The airline originally signed for 10 aircraft during the Dubai Airshow in November 2023, later expanding the commitment with a top-up order for six additional units. These new airframes are intended to replace the carrier’s aging Boeing 777-300ER fleet, offering improved operating economics and passenger comfort.
In a statement regarding the initial order, Yehia Zakaria, EgyptAir Holding Chairman and CEO, highlighted the flagship status of the new type:
“The A350-900 will be our flagship aircraft… adding the world’s most modern and efficient widebody aircraft to our fleet will be instrumental in expanding our offering.”
Christian Scherer, Chief Commercial Officer at Airbus, noted the economic advantages the aircraft brings to the airline’s network:
“The A350 is the one and only aircraft enabling EgyptAir to open up its network with benchmark economic efficiency, not to mention passenger comfort.”
EgyptAir has outlined a phased entry-into-service plan for the new fleet. Initially, the aircraft will be deployed on trunk routes to London and Paris to facilitate crew familiarization. Following this integration period, the airline plans to leverage the A350’s 9,700 nautical mile range to launch non-stop services to the U.S. West Coast and key Asian markets, including Shanghai, Beijing, and Tokyo.
The new A350-900 features a two-class configuration designed to maximize capacity while introducing updated premium amenities. According to fleet data, the aircraft accommodates a total of 340 passengers. Technological upgrades are a focal point of the new cabin. The aircraft is equipped with Panasonic Avionics’ Astrova in-flight entertainment system, providing 4K OLED screens and high-fidelity audio. Additionally, passengers across all classes will have access to USB-C fast charging ports and high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity.
The transition to the A350-900 aligns with broader industry sustainability goals. Powered by two Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, the aircraft is reported to burn 25% less fuel compared to the previous generation aircraft it replaces. This efficiency gain corresponds to a 25% reduction in CO2 emissions.
Furthermore, the A350 is recognized as the quietest aircraft in its class, possessing a noise footprint 50% smaller than older jets, a critical factor for operations at noise-sensitive airports in Europe and North America.
EgyptAir’s delivery secures its position as the sole active operator of the A350-900 in the North African region, a status solidified by the shifting strategies of its neighbors. While other carriers in the region had previously expressed interest in the type, market dynamics have led to cancellations and delays.
For instance, Air Algérie cancelled its order for A350-1000s in early 2025, opting instead for Airbus A330-900neos. Similarly, Tunisair cancelled its A350 commitments in 2013. Other regional orders, such as those from Libyan carriers Afriqiyah Airways and Libyan Airlines, remain stalled due to long-standing instability. Consequently, EgyptAir currently faces no direct regional competition operating this specific airframe, potentially offering it a product advantage on competitive routes connecting Africa to Europe and the Americas.
Sources:
EgyptAir Accepts Delivery of First Airbus A350-900, Initiating Major Fleet Overhaul
Fleet Modernization and Strategic Expansion
Operational Deployment
Cabin Configuration and Passenger Experience
Environmental Performance
AirPro News Analysis: Regional Market Context
Airbus Press Release
Photo Credit: Airbus
Route Development
SAS and TAROM Codeshare Connects Scandinavia and Romania in 2026
SAS and TAROM announce a codeshare agreement effective February 2026, enhancing connectivity between Scandinavia and Romania with SkyTeam benefits.
This article is based on an official press release from SAS Group.
Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) and TAROM, the flag carrier of Romania, have announced a comprehensive codeshare agreement set to commence on February 9, 2026. The partnership aims to restore and enhance connectivity between Northern Europe and Romania following SAS’s strategic shift to the SkyTeam alliance.
According to the official announcement from SAS Group, the agreement will allow passengers to book single-ticket journeys between the two regions by utilizing major European transit hubs. This move integrates TAROM, a long-standing SkyTeam member, more deeply with SAS, which officially joined the alliance on September 1, 2024.
The collaboration addresses a significant gap in network connectivity, offering business and leisure travelers seamless baggage check-through and reciprocal loyalty benefits. Paul Verhagen, EVP & Chief Commercial Officer at SAS, emphasized the strategic value of the deal in a statement:
“This new partnership with TAROM marks an important step in enhancing connectivity between Scandinavia and Romania. By combining our networks and offering smooth transfers via key European hubs, we are giving our customers more choice, flexibility, and convenience.”
Rather than launching direct flights immediately, the airlines are leveraging a “virtual hub” strategy. According to the press release, the codeshare will route traffic through four key intermediate airports: Amsterdam (AMS), Brussels (BRU), Frankfurt (FRA), and Prague (PRG).
Under the terms of the agreement:
This structure allows the airlines to offer competitive travel times and frequency without dedicating aircraft to direct point-to-point routes, which are currently dominated by low-cost carriers.
This agreement is a direct consequence of the major airline alliance realignment that occurred in late 2024. When SAS departed Star Alliance to join SkyTeam, it lost its traditional connectivity to Eastern Europe provided by partners like Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines. Partnering with TAROM allows SAS to rebuild its footprint in the region using SkyTeam infrastructure.
For TAROM, the deal unlocks access to the high-yield Scandinavian market. The Romanian carrier is currently in the midst of a fleet modernization program, transitioning from aging aircraft to new Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets expected to arrive in late 2025 and 2026. By utilizing SAS for the northern leg of the journey, TAROM can expand its network reach while conserving its own metal for other high-demand routes. Narcis Obeadă, Commercial Director at TAROM, hinted at further expansion in the company’s statement:
“In the coming period, TAROM will announce new commercial agreements, in line with the company’s mission to safely and efficiently connect Romania and Romanian culture to the international air transport network.”
Travelers utilizing the codeshare will benefit from the full suite of SkyTeam alliance perks. Members of SAS EuroBonus and TAROM’s loyalty program will be able to earn and redeem points on these codeshare flights. Additionally, premium passengers will gain access to SkyTeam lounges at transit hubs.
The passenger experience on the SAS leg of these journeys is also set for an upgrade. SAS is currently rolling out free high-speed Starlink WiFi across its fleet, a project the airline states will be widely available by late 2025.
The “Prague” Anomaly and Market Positioning
The inclusion of Prague (PRG) as a connection hub is a notable operational detail. Following the cessation of operations by Czech Airlines (CSA) as a standalone SkyTeam member in October 2024, Prague is no longer a primary alliance hub. The decision to route traffic through PRG suggests a strong bilateral interline capability between SAS and TAROM that functions independently of major alliance hub infrastructure.
Furthermore, this deal clearly targets the premium business segment. While low-cost carrier Wizz Air operates direct flights between Bucharest and Copenhagen, legacy carriers cannot compete purely on price. Instead, SAS and TAROM are competing on schedule flexibility (multiple daily frequencies via hubs) and corporate perks (lounge access, baggage interlining). With tourism to Romania rising, foreign arrivals were up 13.4% year-on-year as of August 2024, the demand for reliable, full-service connectivity is likely to grow.
When can I book these codeshare flights? Will my bags be checked through to the final destination? Do these flights count toward SkyTeam Elite status?
SAS and TAROM Launch Strategic Codeshare to Connect Scandinavia and Romania
Operational Details: The Virtual Hub Strategy
RO marketing code on SAS flights connecting Copenhagen, Oslo, and Stockholm to these intermediate hubs.SK marketing code on TAROM flights connecting Bucharest to the same hubs.Strategic Context: The SkyTeam Realignment
Passenger Experience and Loyalty
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
The codeshare agreement is effective starting February 9, 2026. Tickets should be available through both airlines’ booking channels prior to this date.
Yes. Because this is a full codeshare agreement, passengers traveling on a single ticket (e.g., Bucharest to Stockholm via Amsterdam) will have their baggage checked through to the final destination.
Yes. Flights marketed and operated by SkyTeam members (SAS and TAROM) count toward tier status and accrue redeemable miles/points according to the rules of your specific loyalty program.
Sources
Photo Credit: SAS Group
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