Alaska Airlines To Launch London & Reykjavik Flights With New 787 Livery

Alaska Airlines has announced a bold transatlantic expansion with two new international routes launching in spring 2026 from its hub in Seattle: daily nonstop service to London Heathrow and seasonal service to Reykjavik, Iceland. These new destinations mark a significant step in the carrier’s transformation into a premium global airline, supported by the debut of its new 787-9 Dreamliner livery and global onboard experience.

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The Seattle–London Heathrow route will operate daily, year-round, using Boeing 787-9 aircraft equipped with 34 lie-flat business class suites, representing Alaska’s commitment to providing a top-tier premium product for intercontinental travelers. The service is designed to connect not just Seattle, but the entire West Coast, Alaska, and Hawaiʻi to the UK and beyond via Alaska’s joint ventures and partnerships with American Airlines and British Airways.

London represents the largest intercontinental market from Seattle, with more than 400 daily passengers, and Alaska’s entry offers increased flight time options, premium seat capacity, and loyalty benefits through its own award-winning Mileage Plan. These enhancements are expected to further deepen Alaska’s alliances and expand its footprint in European markets.

The second route, from Seattle to Reykjavik, will operate seasonally during the summer using Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft. Iceland remains a growing destination for adventure tourism and nature-based travel, and this service positions Reykjavik as a new gateway to continental Europe within Alaska’s expanding network.

In tandem with these new routes, Alaska Airlines is introducing a striking new global livery for its 787-9 Dreamliner fleet. Inspired by the Aurora Borealis, the design features deep midnight blues, emerald greens, and flowing aura lines, along with retro-inspired details that pay homage to the airline’s heritage. This rebranding will roll out across the Dreamliner fleet starting in January, with all aircraft showcasing the design by spring 2026.

Alaska’s expanded global presence includes plans for up to 17 widebody Dreamliners, enabling broader connectivity across Europe, Asia, and beyond. Alongside the rebranding, the airline is also introducing a refreshed onboard product, positioning itself as a premium carrier for long-haul travel while maintaining its signature Pacific Northwest identity.

CEO Ben Minicucci emphasized that this expansion represents a decisive step toward Alaska becoming a truly global airline, combining a bold vision for international growth with a continued focus on safety, care, and operational excellence.

These new services are part of a broader ambition to serve at least 12 intercontinental destinations from Seattle by 2030, with the London and Reykjavik additions being the fourth and fifth. Alaska Airlines’ transformation reflects its strategic evolution from a U.S. regional player into a globally recognized premium brand, leveraging fleet growth, brand modernization, and strategic partnerships to achieve its goals.