Alaska Airlines Might Launch New Flights to Madrid and Rome in 2026

SEATTLE- Alaska Airlines (AS) plans to expand its long-haul network from Seattle (SEA) with new European flights to potentially Madrid (MAD) or Rome (FCO) starting in Q2 2026. This follows its recent acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines (HA) and the launch of transpacific routes.

The airline aims to transform Seattle into a global hub, targeting a dozen long-haul routes by 2030, but faces challenges like limited joint ventures and slot constraints at key European airports, OMAAT reported.

Photo: Cado Photo

Alaska Airlines Might Launch New Flights

Alaska Airlines is rapidly transforming Seattle-Tacoma (SEA) into a strategic global hub by adding new flights. The airline’s CEO, Ben Minicucci, recently confirmed that the next phase of expansion will include Europe, with the inaugural transatlantic flight expected in the second quarter of 2026.

While the specific destination remains undisclosed, the announcement marks a pivotal shift as Alaska Air Group positions itself in the long-haul international market.

Minicucci hinted that the airline’s European route has already been chosen and internal preparations are underway.

Although he refrained from revealing the exact city, speculation is strong due to recent strategic communications and historical context.

A slide shown during earlier long-haul planning featured only three European cities- London (LHR), Paris (CDG), and Rome (FCO), suggesting that these are the frontrunners.

Photo: Clément Alloing

Alaska’s Challenges

Alaska Airlines faces several strategic challenges:

• Lack of Long-Haul Alliances: Alaska isn’t currently part of any transatlantic joint venture, which limits its ability to drive high-yield connecting traffic.
• Branding Transition: With its acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines (HA), there’s temporary confusion as both brands operate long-haul flights from Seattle.
  Hawaiian’s Airbus A330s, currently used for long-haul services, offer a subpar onboard product compared to competitors.
• Geographic Limitations: While SEA is well-positioned for transpacific travel, it lacks a similar advantage for Europe, especially for passengers originating on the East Coast.

Despite these constraints, Alaska benefits from a strong Mileage Plan loyalty base and premium leisure demand, especially for summer travel to southern Europe.

Photo: By Johnnyw3 – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=76752468

Which Cities Are Most Likely?

Rome (FCO) appears to be the leading candidate. Here’s why:

• CEO’s Hint: Minicucci, who is of Italian heritage, jokingly said his family would be happy about the European route choice, suggesting a personal connection.
• Market Gaps: There is currently no nonstop service from Seattle (SEA) to Rome (FCO), leaving room for Alaska to enter with a unique offering.
• Seasonal Demand: Rome and other southern European cities attract strong seasonal demand from US leisure travelers.
• Fewer Slot Constraints: Unlike London Heathrow (LHR), Rome and Madrid (MAD) offer easier slot access for new entrants.

Madrid (MAD) also stands out as a feasible option. It’s a hub for Iberia (IB), which could provide connecting opportunities.

Additionally, Spain has become a top destination for US tourists in recent years. Paris (CDG), while a major global city, may lack the same strategic fit due to limited partnerships.

Photo: Alaska Airlines

Future Outlook

By launching two long-haul international routes per year, Alaska Airlines is clearly committing to global growth.

As part of the oneworld alliance and with an enhanced Seattle base, the airline is working to build partnerships and improve its long-haul product, which will be crucial for success in competitive transatlantic markets.

Upgrades to its widebody fleet or future aircraft acquisitions will likely be necessary to remain competitive in terms of passenger comfort and operational efficiency.

The airline’s European launch in 2026 will serve as a critical test of Alaska’s readiness to compete in the global aviation landscape.

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