Alaska Airlines Begins Service Between Seattle and London Heathrow, Reykjavík to Follow
- Joe Breitfeller
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Alaska Airlines has today announced the start of new direct service between Seattle and London Heathrow. This follows the recent launch of service to Rome, with flights to Reykjavík to follow on May 28, 2026.
On Thursday (May 21, 2026), Alaska Airlines announced the start of new service between Seattle-Tacoma (SEA) and London Heathrow (LHR), marking a major milestone in the carrier’s international expansion, with service to Reykjavík to follow on May 28th, just weeks after launching nonstop service to Rome. The new service reinforces Alaska’s position as the fourth largest global airline in the U.S. and strengthening its international network. The new, year-round London service marks Alaska’s second European destination introduced this year and begins just ahead of the busy summer travel season.
In Thursday’s announcement, Alaska Airlines’ Chief Commercial Officer, Andrew Harrison, said,
“As we connect the West Coast to Europe in new ways, our focus is on delivering a meaningful experience that feels distinctly Alaska – warm, thoughtful and elevated at every touchpoint. For our guests in the U.S., we’re opening more convenient access to Europe with the airline they know and love, and for our guests in Europe and beyond, we’re bringing our signature West Coast hospitality to every step of the journey, reflecting the comfort and care we’re known for.”
Also commenting on the new route launch, London Heathrow Airport’s Chief Commercial Officer, Ross Baker, said,
“Every new route launched from Heathrow gives passengers and businesses more choice and stronger connections to the world. Alaska Airlines’ new service to Seattle further strengthens our transatlantic network, opening up opportunities for travel and trade between the UK and the U.S. West Coast. Working closely with airline partners like Alaska is how we deliver the connectivity passengers and businesses want – and keep the UK competitive globally.”
As previously mentioned, On May 28, 2026, Alaska will launch daily nonstop, seasonal service to Reykjavík as their third European destination. The schedule has been optimized to coincide with Iceland’s peak summer season, and will connect guests to one of the best viewing spots in the world for the August 2026 total solar eclipse. From Iceland, travelers can easily connect to Alaska’s many partner airlines to continue exploring Europe, including Icelandair, which offers over 35 daily departures from the country’s capital. Additionally, thanks to Alaska’s partnership with Icelandair, guests traveling in First Class or as Atmos Rewards Gold, Platinum or Titanium elite members will have access to Icelandair’s Saga Lounge at Keflavík International Airport.
The Reykjavík route will be operated with a Boeing 737-8 MAX, featuring an elevated onboard experience. First Class guests will receive plush Filson-designed blankets, along with pillows and a Filson travel amenity kit filled with Salt & Stone products. Guests in the Main Cabin are treated to a complimentary meal service, including a hot main, small salad and dessert, with vegetarian options available. Premium Class guests can also choose from Alaska’s new Premium Snack Basket to complement their meal. The experience also comes with a curated lineup of West Coast beverages, both non-alcoholic and alcoholic, such as the Cloud Cruiser IPA from Fremont Brewing of Seattle or Canoe Ridge Chardonnay from Walla Walla, WA.
Currently, Alaska is installing their entire 737-8 MAX fleet with ultra-fast Wi-Fi so guests can stay connected on their way to Reykjavík, free thanks to T-Mobile and powered by Starlink. Aklaska recently became the first airline in the world to equip its entire regional fleet with Starlink, and together with Hawaiian Airlines, will become the first U.S. carrier to offer Starlink on 100 percent of their widebody fleet this fall when installation of Starlink is complete on its Dreamliner fleet.
Source: Alaska Airlines
