SEATTLE- Alaska Airlines (AS) is set to broaden its long-haul offerings from Seattle (SEA), with plans for new services to either Madrid (MAD) or Rome (FCO) slated to commence in the second quarter of 2026. This initiative comes on the heels of its recent purchase of Hawaiian Airlines (HA) and the introduction of new transpacific routes.
The airline aspires to establish Seattle as a pivotal global hub with ambitions to operate up to a dozen long-haul routes by 2030. However, it must navigate challenges such as a lack of joint ventures and limited slots at key European airports, as reported by OMAAT.
Alaska Airlines is actively reshaping Seattle-Tacoma (SEA) into a strategic hub by enhancing its route offerings. CEO Ben Minicucci has indicated that the upcoming phase of growth will focus on European destinations, with the first transatlantic flight targeted for mid-2026.
While the exact destination has not been revealed, this announcement signifies a significant transition as Alaska Air Group seeks a foothold in the long-haul international market.
Minicucci has hinted that the airline has selected its European destination and that preparations are actively underway. While he has not disclosed the specific city, there is considerable speculation based on recent communications and historical context.
Past presentations during long-haul planning revealed a focus on three European cities – London (LHR), Paris (CDG), and Rome (FCO), indicating that these cities are likely contenders.
Challenges for Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines confronts several strategic obstacles:
- Absence of Long-Haul Partnerships: As it currently holds no position in a transatlantic joint venture, Alaska’s ability to attract high-yield connecting traffic is limited.
- Branding Transition Dilemmas: Following the acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines, there is potential brand confusion as both airlines manage long-haul services from Seattle. Hawaiian’s Airbus A330s are currently employed for these routes but do not meet the competitive onboard experience.
- Geographic Limitations: Although SEA offers advantageous positioning for transpacific travel, it lacks similar strategic benefits for European destinations, particularly for travelers starting from the East Coast.
Yet, Alaska Airlines enjoys a robust Mileage Plan loyalty program and significant demand for premium leisure travel, particularly in the summer season to southern Europe.
Potential European Destinations
Rome (FCO) seems to be the leading candidate for Alaska Airlines’ new service for several reasons:
- CEO’s Hint: Minicucci, who has Italian heritage, humorously suggested that his family would endorse the choice of Europe as a travel destination, indicating a personal link.
- Market Opportunities: Currently, there is no direct service from Seattle (SEA) to Rome (FCO), allowing Alaska Airlines to introduce a unique travel option.
- Seasonal Interest: Cities like Rome attract significant seasonal travel from U.S. leisure travelers, further enhancing the route’s appeal.
- Better Slot Accessibility: Compared to London Heathrow (LHR), both Madrid and Rome present fewer challenges regarding slot access for new entrants.
Madrid (MAD) is also a potential option, functioning as a hub for Iberia (IB), which could facilitate connecting flights.
Additionally, Spain’s growing popularity as a travel destination for U.S. tourists could bolster demand. While Paris (CDG) remains a global landmark, its lack of strategic partnerships may hinder Alaska’s likelihood of establishing routes there.
Looking Ahead
With plans to initiate two long-haul international routes annually, Alaska Airlines demonstrates a clear commitment to expanding its global presence.
As a member of the oneworld alliance with an upgraded operational base in Seattle, the airline is strategically working on forging new partnerships and enhancing its long-haul offerings, which are crucial in the competitive transatlantic market.
Potential upgrades to its widebody fleet or upcoming aircraft acquisitions will play a significant role in achieving passenger comfort and improving operational efficiency.
The anticipated European routes set to launch in 2026 will be a vital test for Alaska Airlines as they join the competitive international aviation sector.
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Kevin Derby is a seasoned journalist based in the U.S., dedicated to uncovering the truth and telling compelling stories. With more than a decade of experience, he has reported on a diverse array of topics ranging from breaking news to human-interest stories and in-depth investigative pieces. His commitment to journalistic integrity, paired with a keen attention to detail, has earned him respect as a trusted authority in the media industry.
Based on an article from aviationa2z.com: https://aviationa2z.com/index.php/2025/05/14/alaska-airlines-might-launch-madrid-and-rome-flights-in-2026/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=alaska-airlines-might-launch-madrid-and-rome-flights-in-2026
