Alaska Airlines Takes Flight to Europe: Paris and Athens Next on Board

Alaska Airlines is rapidly expanding its global reach, with two new seasonal nonstop routes from Seattle to Paris and Athens set to launch in May 2027. The carrier will operate Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners on both routes, with the SEA-ATH flight becoming its longest-ever route at 6,197 miles.

The addition of these two new European destinations brings Alaska's total number of intercontinental routes from Seattle to seven by summer 2027. This includes existing operations to Tokyo Narita Airport and Seoul's Incheon International Airport, with at least five more planned by 2030.

However, this expansion also puts pressure on the airline's deliveries and crews, who are already understaffed on long-haul flights. Additionally, Alaska will be entering a mature market in Paris, where Delta Air Lines and joint-venture partner Air France already connect Seattle with up to 12 weekly flights.