Alaska Airlines is expanding its long-haul international network with new nonstop flights from Seattle to Athens and Paris beginning in May 2027, reinforcing Seattle-Tacoma International Airport’s role as the carrier’s primary global gateway.
The seasonal routes will be operated with Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and give West Coast travelers additional direct access to two of Europe’s most popular destinations. Tickets for both routes are already available, with introductory round-trip Main Cabin fares starting at $999 for eligible U.S. bookings made through August 26.
Alaska Airlines Expands European Network From Seattle
The addition of Athens International Airport and Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport marks the latest phase of Alaska Airlines’ international expansion. The carrier is seeking to develop a network of more than a dozen long-haul destinations from Seattle in the coming years.
According to Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci, Athens and Paris have consistently ranked among the destinations most frequently requested by Atmos Rewards members.
Once the new services begin, Alaska’s intercontinental network from Seattle will include Athens, Paris, Reykjavik, London, Rome, Seoul and Tokyo. The airline has also announced plans to add at least five more intercontinental destinations by 2030.
Seattle is already Alaska Airlines’ largest hub. The carrier operates more than 360 departures on peak travel days from the airport, serving approximately 110 nonstop destinations across North America and international markets.
Seattle-Athens Route Becomes Alaska’s Longest Flight
Alaska Airlines will launch its seasonal nonstop service between Seattle and Athens on May 12, 2027. Flights will operate three times weekly through October.
The service is expected to become the longest flight in Alaska Airlines’ history. It would also establish the first nonstop connection between Seattle and the Greek capital, providing what the airline says will be the only direct route linking the U.S. West Coast with Athens.
The flight could provide new opportunities for leisure and business travel while supporting tourism, trade and investment connections between Greece and the Pacific Northwest.
George Kallimasias, managing director and CEO of Athens International Airport, welcomed the announcement and described the service as an important addition that will strengthen connectivity between Greece and the western United States.
Paris Service Scheduled to Begin May 25
Nonstop flights between Seattle and Paris are scheduled to begin May 25, 2027. Alaska Airlines plans to operate the seasonal route five times per week through October.
Paris has been one of the most frequently searched international destinations on Alaska’s website, according to the carrier. The city’s popularity among both leisure and business travelers made it a central part of the airline’s European growth plans.
The schedule will also allow passengers traveling from Honolulu to reach Paris through Seattle with same-day connections, expanding European access for travelers originating in Hawai’i.
Boeing 787-9 Supports Long-Haul Expansion
Both European routes will use Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners featuring Alaska Airlines’ redesigned international cabin. The aircraft will offer lie-flat Business Class Suites, enhanced meals developed by the airline’s culinary team and premium amenities supplied by West Coast companies.
Atmos Rewards members will also receive complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi sponsored by T-Mobile. Alaska is continuing to install the satellite internet system across the Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines fleets through 2027.
The airline’s broader international strategy is being supported by additional Dreamliner aircraft and investments in premium passenger services. Those plans include a new international lounge at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
Through Alaska’s membership in the oneworld alliance and its relationships with other international carriers, Seattle passengers can also connect to destinations throughout Europe, Asia, the Middle East and other global markets.
Sam Darnold Joins Promotional Campaign
Alaska Airlines has partnered with Seattle quarterback Sam Darnold to promote its expanding international network. Campaign content featuring Darnold will appear throughout the football season as the airline highlights its new European routes and global ambitions.
The Athens and Paris services represent a significant step in Alaska Airlines’ effort to transform Seattle into a larger international connecting hub. With additional routes planned through 2030, the airline is positioning its Pacific Northwest base for continued growth in the competitive long-haul travel market.
