Alaska Airlines Launches Daily Nonstop Flights to London Heathrow

Alaska Airlines has launched daily nonstop service between Seattle–Tacoma International Airport and London Heathrow, marking a major milestone in the carrier's international expansion and its second European destination of the year, following last month's debut route to Rome.

The year-round service operates out of Heathrow's Terminal 3, giving US travelers direct access to London and onward connections across Europe via oneworld partner airlines. UK passengers gain a new gateway to the Pacific Northwest, with easy connections to Alaska's broader West Coast network, including the Hawaiian Islands. The route is operated by Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, which also enables cargo connectivity between North America and the UK.

On May 28, Alaska will add a third European destination with seasonal nonstop service to Reykjavík, operated on a Boeing 737-8 MAX. The route is timed for Iceland's summer peak and positions Reykjavík as a prime viewing location for the August 2026 total solar eclipse. First Class passengers on the Iceland route receive Filson-designed bedding and amenity kits with Salt & Stone products, while all Main Cabin guests receive a complimentary hot meal. The entire 737-8 MAX fleet is being fitted with Starlink-powered Wi-Fi, offered free via T-Mobile.

Alaska is also investing heavily in its ground experience. A new exclusive Suites check-in lobby for premium and top-tier loyalty members is now open in Seattle, with dedicated lanes rolling out across key hubs including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Portland, and Anchorage, as well as international stations in Rome, Tokyo, Seoul, and London.

Looking further ahead, Alaska will open a flagship lounge at Seattle–Tacoma in late 2027, spanning over 41,000 square feet across two levels with around 700 seats, making it one of the largest airline lounges in the United States. The space will feature à la carte dining, premium bars, showers, and Pacific Northwest-inspired food and beverages, with an upper level dedicated to international long-haul and Suites passengers. Additional new lounges are planned in Portland this summer, and in San Diego and Honolulu in early 2028.