Friday, June 6, 2025

Alaska Airlines has revealed plans to expand its global network with the introduction of a new European route, marking a major milestone for the airline. Beginning in May 2026, Alaska Airlines will operate direct flights between Seattle Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO). This new service is part of a broader strategy to expand Alaska Airlines’ international reach and cement Seattle as the airline’s premier global gateway.

This move comes as Alaska Airlines, together with its subsidiary Hawaiian Airlines, nears the completion of a significant operational transition. Both airlines are working toward obtaining a single operating certificate from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which is expected to be finalized in the autumn. Once approved, this certificate will allow Alaska Airlines to operate seamlessly with Hawaiian Airlines, leveraging both airlines’ fleets and resources to enhance service offerings across a range of new routes, including the Seattle to Rome service.

The Seattle-Rome route will be operated with four weekly flights, and Hawaiian Airlines’ Boeing 787-9 aircraft will be deployed on this long-haul international service, although the operations will be managed by Alaska Airlines. This collaboration is a key part of the airline’s broader strategic plan to integrate the operations of the two companies following the merger. As part of a three-year strategy to generate \$1 billion in incremental profits, the airlines aim to significantly bolster their global footprint, with the Seattle hub positioned at the center of this expansion.

Alaska Airlines views this move as a critical step in transforming Seattle into a major West Coast hub for international travel. Rome will be the third international destination from Seattle to be served by widebody aircraft, joining Tokyo Narita and Seoul Incheon, which were launched earlier this year. These additions signal the airline’s commitment to expanding its international operations and providing more options for travelers looking to fly from Seattle to key destinations across the globe.

The Seattle to Rome service is part of Alaska Airlines’ long-term plans to further diversify its long-haul network. According to a recent statement from the airline, it plans to serve twelve long-haul international destinations from Seattle by 2030. This ambitious goal aligns with the airline’s broader strategy of expanding its global reach and improving connectivity for passengers traveling to and from the Pacific Northwest.

In addition to the new international routes, Alaska Airlines continues to make significant investments in its fleet. Currently, the airline’s fleet includes a mix of Boeing 737 models, with a total of 240 aircraft, including various versions of the 737, such as the 737-700, 737-800, and 737-900ER. Horizon Air, a regional subsidiary of Alaska Airlines, operates 45 Embraer E175 aircraft. Hawaiian Airlines, another member of the Alaska Air Group, operates a fleet of 73 aircraft, including Airbus A330s, Boeing 787-9s, and Boeing 717-200s.

In a separate but related development, Alaska Air Group has announced a temporary delay in the delivery of new Embraer E175 jets for Horizon Air. The delay was prompted by concerns over potential increased costs due to import tariffs imposed by the previous US administration. Originally scheduled to receive two new E175 aircraft in May, Alaska Air Group decided to postpone the deliveries to avoid the impact of higher import fees. This decision is part of the company’s effort to manage its costs and avoid additional financial burdens. Horizon Air still has five more E175 jets scheduled for future delivery, and the company will continue to monitor the situation as it evaluates the best course of action for its fleet.

Despite this delay in regional aircraft deliveries, the focus on international expansion and fleet modernization remains a priority for Alaska Airlines. The airline’s leadership continues to drive growth in both domestic and international markets, with a particular emphasis on enhancing the passenger experience and improving network connectivity. As Alaska Airlines continues to expand its global reach, the Seattle hub is expected to play a key role in its efforts to become a leading international carrier on the West Coast.

In summary, Alaska Airlines’ new Seattle to Rome service is a significant step forward in the airline’s global expansion strategy. This new route, along with the airline’s broader plans to integrate operations with Hawaiian Airlines, will help establish Seattle as a premier international gateway. With a fleet of modern aircraft, strategic partnerships, and a clear vision for the future, Alaska Airlines is poised to strengthen its position as a key player in global aviation.