The year-round route marks the airline’s second European destination introduced in 2026 and arrives just ahead of the peak summer travel season.
London Becomes Alaska’s Latest European Destination
The new London Heathrow service follows Alaska Airlines’ recent launch of nonstop flights between Seattle and Rome, the carrier’s first-ever transatlantic route.
Later this month, the airline is also scheduled to begin seasonal nonstop flights between Seattle and Reykjavík, Iceland.
Flights Operate From Heathrow Terminal 3
Alaska Airlines will operate the Seattle service from London Heathrow’s Terminal 3, offering passengers access to onward connections across Europe and beyond through oneworld alliance partners.
The route also provides UK travelers with improved access to Seattle and Alaska Airlines’ wider West Coast network, including connections to Hawaii.
Alaska Expands Premium International Experience
The airline said the new route forms part of its broader effort to elevate the international passenger experience while maintaining its signature West Coast hospitality style.
Passengers traveling in Alaska Airlines’ international business class suites and eligible oneworld elite members will have access to partner airport lounges, including the Admirals Club at Heathrow.
Seattle Lounge Expansion Planned
Alongside its international growth strategy, Alaska Airlines also announced plans for a major new flagship lounge at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
Scheduled to open in late 2027, the new Alaska Lounge will become the airline’s largest lounge facility in Seattle and one of the largest airline lounges in the United States.
The two-level lounge will span more than 41,000 square feet and accommodate approximately 700 guests.
Premium Amenities Planned For New Lounge
The facility will feature showers, premium bars, à la carte dining and chef-curated seasonal menus.
Guests will also have access to locally inspired food offerings, Pacific Northwest craft beers, cocktails and espresso beverages.
The upper level of the lounge will be reserved primarily for international long-haul travelers and premium cabin passengers.
Further Lounge Investments Planned Across US
The Seattle project forms part of a broader multimillion-dollar investment in Alaska Airlines’ lounge network.
New lounges are also planned in Portland, San Diego and Honolulu over the next two years.
Alaska Continues International Expansion
The airline’s European expansion reflects growing demand for international travel from the Pacific Northwest and Alaska Airlines’ efforts to establish a stronger long-haul presence through Seattle.
London Heathrow remains one of the world’s most strategically important international aviation hubs, particularly for transatlantic business and leisure travel.
