Alaska Airlines to Launch Europe Routes Using Hawaiian Aircraft in 2026

Alaska Airlines to Launch European Routes Using Hawaiian Airlines’ Aircraft in 2026

Alaska Airlines is set to broaden its long-haul network from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport by introducing its first European route in 2026. This expansion will be facilitated through the use of widebody aircraft from its recently acquired subsidiary, Hawaiian Airlines. CEO Ben Minicucci confirmed the initiative, which represents a significant advancement beyond Alaska’s recent entry into the Asian market. The airline’s new services from Seattle to Tokyo Narita, launched in May 2025, and to Seoul Incheon, commencing in September 2025, are both operated by Hawaiian Airlines’ Airbus A330-200s under the ‘HA’ code. While Hawaiian Airlines has extensive experience flying to Asia, neither carrier has previously operated flights to Europe.

Launching Transatlantic Service to Rome

The first European destination on Alaska’s expanded network will be Rome, with plans to operate four weekly flights from Seattle beginning in May 2026. These services will utilize Boeing 787-9 aircraft, which are part of the combined fleet following Alaska Air Group’s acquisition of Hawaiian Holdings. By 2030, Alaska aims to serve a total of 12 long-haul destinations from Seattle, underscoring its ambition to establish a robust international presence.

The merger has provided Alaska Airlines, which has never operated widebody aircraft independently, with an accelerated entry into the long-haul market. Hawaiian Airlines contributes 24 Airbus A330-200s and three Boeing 787-9s to the group’s fleet, with nine additional 787s on order. Deliveries are scheduled through 2028, and the group has no plans to retire any A330s before the end of 2027. The A330s will remain based in Honolulu, while some 787s will be stationed at a yet-to-be-disclosed West Coast hub.

Currently, Hawaiian’s 787s operate exclusively between Honolulu and the U.S. mainland, serving Los Angeles and New York JFK. The A330s are deployed on both domestic and international routes across Asia and the Pacific. Alaska Airlines Group intends to secure a single operating certificate for both airlines by the end of 2025, although both brands will be maintained due to their strong local recognition. “Hawaiian’s brand is just too special. It has a lot of equity and value, especially in the state of Hawaii. I am convinced that brand is there forever,” Minicucci stated.

Challenges Ahead in the European Market

Despite the promising expansion, Alaska Airlines faces several challenges as it enters the competitive European market. Regulatory approvals, competition from well-established European carriers, and the necessity to build brand recognition among European travelers present significant obstacles. Industry analysts and travelers have expressed skepticism regarding Alaska’s long-haul capabilities, given its limited experience in this segment. Additionally, competitors may respond by adjusting their routes or pricing strategies to defend their market share.

Nonetheless, Alaska Airlines’ strategic deployment of Hawaiian’s widebody fleet positions the carrier to rapidly expand its international footprint, marking a bold new chapter for the Seattle-based airline.