Alaska Airlines announced it will begin seasonal nonstop flights from Seattle–Tacoma International Airport to Athens International Airport and Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport starting in May 2027. These routes introduce new international connections from the U.S. West Coast to Europe.
Flight Schedules and Route Significance
Service to Athens will start on May 12, 2027, as flight AS196, operating three times weekly. It will be Alaska Airlines’ longest route and marks the first nonstop link between the U.S. West Coast and the Greek capital. Return flights from Athens will commence on May 13, 2027. The Paris route will begin with flight AS136 on May 25, 2027,
flying five times weekly, with return flights starting May 26, 2027. Alaska becomes the first oneworld alliance member to offer nonstop flights from the West Coast to Paris.
Aircraft, Amenities, and Ticket Sales
Both new routes will be operated using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. Passengers can expect Alaska Airlines’ international business class featuring lie-flat suites and premium West Coast branded amenities. Tickets went on sale on August 20, 2026, with introductory Main Cabin roundtrip fares starting at $999 available through August 26, 2026. Loyalty program members will have access to complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi onboard.
Long-Term Network Growth and Existing Service
Alaska Airlines plans to operate more than 12 international long-haul routes from
Seattle by 2030, expanding its global reach. The airline currently offers nonstop flights from Seattle to destinations including Iceland, London, Rome, Seoul, and Tokyo. It operates over 360 peak-day departures and serves 110 nonstop destinations from the Seattle area.
Official Perspectives on Strategic Importance
Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci has outlined a strategy to establish Seattle as a premier global gateway by growing transatlantic service. George Kallimasias, Managing Director and CEO of Athens International Airport, welcomed the new nonstop Seattle-Athens connection, describing it as a bridge that will strengthen ties between the U.S. West Coast and Greece.
Passenger Benefits and Connectivity
The nonstop flights to Athens and Paris will
reduce travel times by eliminating layovers through East Coast or Midwest hubs. Passengers will benefit from Alaska’s premium business class experience and new connectivity options enabling seamless same-day connections from West Coast markets. Alaska is also installing complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi powered by T-Mobile across its fleet through 2027 to enhance passenger experience.
Market Impact and Strategic Positioning
The introduction of the Seattle-Athens nonstop route disrupts the U.S. West Coast market by offering a unique direct link to the Greek capital. This move complements Alaska’s existing European network and positions Seattle competitively against traditional East Coast gateways for Europe-bound travelers. The airline’s phased launch in late
spring and summer matches peak European travel demand, supporting both leisure and connecting passengers.
Marketing and Fleet Development
Alaska Airlines is collaborating with Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold for marketing efforts promoting the new routes. Concurrently, the airline is expanding its Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet to support its international long-haul growth ambitions through 2030.
