New Nonstop Route Connects Seattle to the Eternal City
In a significant development for travelers in the Pacific Northwest, Alaska Airlines has announced that it will launch nonstop flights from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Rome’s Fiumicino Airport (FCO) starting May 2026. This momentous decision marks the first time the largest European city without direct service to Seattle will finally be accessible via a nonstop flight.
The new route will operate four times weekly on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, which promises to elevate the travel experience with Alaska’s flagship international offerings.
Flight Details and Booking Information
Tickets for the Seattle to Rome flights will go on sale in the fall of 2025 through both alaskaair.com and hawaiianairlines.com. The schedule will have flights departing Seattle at 6:00 PM, arriving in Rome at 1:45 PM the following day. The return flight will take off from Rome at 3:45 PM, landing back in Seattle at 6:00 PM.
This new service is part of Alaska Airlines' vision to expand its international reach as it advances its strategic plan, known as "Alaska Accelerate," aimed at generating $1 billion in incremental profit following its merger with Hawaiian Airlines.
Improving Connectivity and Popularity
Rome has remained one of the most requested destinations among Alaska Airlines’ Mileage Plan members. By introducing this nonstop option, the airline not only caters to requests from its customers but also enhances connectivity for travelers across the West Coast and Hawaiʻi.
Alaska Airlines boasts Seattle-Tacoma International Airport as its largest hub, serving over 104 nonstop destinations across North America and now planning for an international reach. Providing a direct route to Rome enhances its standing as a premier global gateway.
Rome: A Gateway to Europe
Located centrally in Italy, Rome is not just a destination but a vital gateway to Central and Southern Europe and the Mediterranean region. With Fiumicino Airport facilitating access to over 230 nonstop destinations in 80 countries, travelers can easily venture into other popular cities like Milan, Venice, and Florence from Rome.
A Destination Revitalized
Rome is preparing for a major influx of visitors as it undergoes significant renovations in anticipation of the 2025 Jubilee Year. With a rich historical tapestry including iconic sites like the Colosseum and St. Peter’s Basilica, the city is set to captivate travelers.
Transformation at Fiumicino Airport
Fiumicino Airport has earned its reputation as a premier airport in Europe, further bolstered by a substantial investment of €9 billion in modernization and expansion efforts. With state-of-the-art facilities including electronic passport controls for quick entry, visitors can expect a seamless travel experience upon arrival.
The Significance for Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines
The new route to Rome symbolizes a turning point for Alaska Airlines, taking over the operational responsibilities of Hawaiian Airline's Dreamliner fleet and repositioning it towards thriving international routes. This shift alongside Alaska's broader strategy indicates the airline's intent to capture market opportunities on a global scale while potentially reshaping its existing routes within Hawaiʻi.
As the aviation landscape continues to change, Alaska Airlines looks to expand its horizons beyond traditional city pairs, demonstrating a promising outlook for the future of air travel connectivity from Seattle.
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