Alaska Airlines Charts First Transatlantic Route with Seattle–Rome Flights
Italy becomes the airline’s debut European destination

Rome Beckons as Alaska Expands International Footprint

Alaska Airlines will launch nonstop Seattle–Rome flights in May 2026. This marks its first-ever transatlantic service and European destination. The route will use a 787-9 Dreamliner four times weekly.

Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci called the Rome service “a dream come true.”

Seattle: Alaska’s Global Gateway

Seattle remains Alaska’s largest hub with 104 nonstop US routes. The airline recently added Tokyo and Seoul to its international roster.

Rome flights continue the carrier’s steady expansion beyond North America. Minicucci said Rome topped the list when planning global growth.

Why Rome? Demand and Opportunity

Over 43,000 people flew Seattle–Rome via connections last year. Rome was Seattle’s largest unserved European market until now.

The route will serve both leisure and business travellers across the West Coast. Alaska expects strong demand from cities like Portland, San Diego, and Phoenix.

Connections Across Italy and Beyond

Flights arrive at Rome’s Fiumicino International, Italy’s busiest airport. Travellers can easily connect to Milan, Florence, Venice, and Naples. Rome’s growing links make it a strategic entry point to Europe.

Strengthening US–Italy Travel

Alaska joins a growing list of airlines flying West Coast–Rome. United and Norse Atlantic also launched new Rome routes in 2025.

Aeroporti di Roma called Alaska’s launch “a historic milestone.”

Alaska Airlines Eyes Global Growth

The airline’s purchase of Hawaiian Airlines supports long-haul expansion. A joint air operator’s certificate is expected by late 2025.

More European and Asian routes are likely as the fleet grows.

A Strategic Step Into Europe

Seattle–Rome will be the second-longest European route from Seattle. Alaska holds a monopoly on the route, giving it pricing power.

Rome flights are expected to be seasonal but could expand.

Loyalty Perks and Seamless Travel

Frequent flyers can earn Avios and tier points on the new route. Alaska’s partnership with oneworld opens access to broader European networks.

Rome flights will boost one-stop options from Western US cities.

Alaska Airlines’ bold step into Europe shows clear intent: To compete globally, connect more travellers, and write a new chapter in its history.