Alaska Airlines announced it will begin seasonal nonstop service connecting Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) with Athens International Airport (ATH) starting May 12, 2027, operating three flights weekly. The carrier will also launch a nonstop route from Seattle to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) on May 25, 2027, with five weekly flights during the fall season.
Seattle to Athens: Alaska’s Longest Route
The Seattle-Athens flight will mark Alaska Airlines’ longest route to date and the only nonstop option between the US West Coast and Athens. The seasonal service carries flight number AS196, referencing the year 1896, when modern Olympic Games originated in Athens. This route represents
the airline’s first-ever nonstop service to the Greek capital.
Fares, Flight Numbers, and Connections
Ticket sales for the new Athens and Paris routes began on August 20, 2026. Introductory roundtrip fares for Main Cabin seats start at $999 for US-based travelers through August 26, 2026. The Paris route carries flight number AS136, denoting the city’s 136 museums. Travelers flying between Paris and Honolulu can take advantage of same-day connections via Seattle, linking European and Hawaiian travel through Alaska Airlines’ hub.
Aircraft and Inflight Amenities
Both transatlantic routes will use Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft equipped with Alaska Airlines’ updated long-haul cabin products. International business class passengers will enjoy lie-flat Suites,
multi-course meals, and amenity kits from West Coast brands Filson and Salt & Stone. Members of Alaska’s Atmos Rewards program will have access to complimentary high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi powered by T-Mobile. Installation of Starlink connectivity will continue across Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines’ fleets throughout 2027.
Strategic Growth and Leadership Statements
Ben Minicucci, CEO of Alaska Airlines, stated, “We fly where our guests aspire to go, and Athens and Paris have been high on that list for years.” He added, “As we build to more than 12 international long-haul routes from Seattle in the coming years, we’re giving travelers more ways to connect to the world.”
These new routes respond to high demand from the airline’s reward members and form part of a broader strategy to develop Seattle as a global gateway on the US West Coast.
Network Expansion and Passenger Experience Enhancements
Alaska Airlines currently operates international nonstop service from Seattle to destinations including Iceland, London, Rome, Seoul, and Tokyo. The airline plans to add at least five additional international destinations by 2030 as more Boeing 787 Dreamliners enter the fleet. Alongside route expansion, Alaska will enhance passenger amenities by opening a new international lounge at Seattle and implementing updated onboard service features.
