Alaska Airlines Secures Heathrow Slots for New Seattle – London Service
Alaska Finally Gains Access to Heathrow
AS has secured valuable slots at London Heathrow Airport, clearing the way for its new Seattle – London route. Slot coordinator ACL confirmed the airline obtained a daily slot pair through a lease with Oneworld partner American Airlines.
The agreement allows Alaska to launch daily service between Seattle – Tacoma International Airport and Heathrow in May 2026. Alaska first announced plans for the route in August, citing strong corporate and leisure demand for London.
A Major Step in Alaska’s Long-Haul Strategy
Alaska will operate the route with 300-seat Boeing 787-9 aircraft acquired through its purchase of Hawaiian Airlines. The airline plans to build a long-haul fleet of up to 17 Dreamliners by decade’s end.
London remains Seattle’s largest intercontinental market, with more than 400 daily passengers travelling between the cities. British Airways, Delta Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic already serve the route, creating a highly competitive market.
The Complex Fight for Heathrow Slots
Heathrow slots remain among the most difficult aviation assets to secure anywhere in the world. Alaska failed to obtain new slots during ACL’s initial summer 2026 coordination round.
The airline then pursued leased slots, the only viable path after British Airways declined to relinquish capacity. American Airlines ultimately agreed to lease 14 slots, equivalent to one daily arrival and departure.
Data suggests American freed availability by reducing Miami–Heathrow frequencies for the upcoming season.
Alaska Prepares for a Competitive Transatlantic Launch
The new service will join Alaska’s growing intercontinental network from Seattle, including Tokyo Narita and Seoul Incheon. Rome will also join the list in May 2026, marking another milestone in Alaska’s expansion.
The airline plans to debut service to Reykjavik in summer 2026 using Boeing 737-8 aircraft. Alaska says the new daily London service will enhance connectivity across the West Coast and Europe.
Slot Lease Covers the Summer Season Only
ACL documents show Alaska’s Heathrow access runs only from May 22 to October 24, 2026. The airline has not yet outlined its long-term plan for winter operations beyond the lease period.
Flight timings currently show a 2:05 pm arrival and a 4:00 pm departure, though adjustments are likely.
Strengthened Partnerships Drive New Opportunities
Alaska emphasises its growing cooperation with American Airlines and British Airways. The airline expects deeper alliances to unlock further network benefits for West Coast travellers.
CEO Ben Minicucci said “Alaska’s long-haul growth reflects a bold commitment to global connectivity.”