Alaska Airlines Adds Seattle-Reykjavík Flights for Summer 2026

Published on Sep 5, 2025, 8:27 am CDT

4 min read

Alaska Airlines will connect the Pacific Northwest to Iceland for the first time next summer with daily nonstop flights from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Keflavík International Airport (KEF). The seasonal service begins May 28, 2026, and runs through mid-September, offering travelers a direct link to Iceland's dramatic landscapes and onward connections across Europe through Icelandair.

Key Points

Why it matters: First nonstop Alaska Airlines service from Seattle to Iceland begins May 28, 2026.
Travel impact: Daily summer flights aboard refreshed 737-8 Max aircraft run through mid-September.
What's next: Expanded codeshare with Icelandair adds seamless European connectivity.
Cabin upgrade: New interiors, power outlets, and Pacific Northwest-inspired tableware debut.
Growth strategy: SEA positioned as Alaska's premier global hub with 12 international routes by 2030.

Snapshot

The new Seattle-Reykjavík flights highlight Alaska Airlines' ambitions to transform Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) into a true global gateway. The route, spanning about 3,600 miles and lasting up to eight hours, will be the longest transatlantic service operated by a U.S. airline on a Boeing 737. Travelers can already book tickets for the seasonal flights, which launch on May 28, 2026. In addition to upgraded aircraft, the route is bolstered by an enhanced codeshare with Icelandair, allowing passengers to book single-ticket itineraries across Europe. First class travelers and Atmos Rewards elites will also gain access to Icelandair's lounge at Keflavík International Airport (KEF).

Background

Alaska Airlines has steadily expanded long-haul flying from Seattle, recently adding service to Tokyo Narita in May and Seoul Incheon in September 2025. London and Rome are scheduled for 2026, and Reykjavík joins the list as the airline targets 12 international routes from its hub by 2030. The new Iceland flights will be flown on updated Boeing 737-8 Max aircraft, featuring redesigned interiors with leather seating, new carpets, bulkhead treatments, and larger overhead bins reserved for First and Premium Class. The premium cabin now seats 16 travelers, adding more outlets and USB-C ports. A Pacific Northwest-inspired dining set with stoneware and brass-tone cutlery debuts September 24 across the fleet.

Latest Developments

Daily summer flights to Reykjavík open for booking

Alaska Airlines will launch daily service between Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and Keflavík International Airport (KEF) starting May 28, 2026. The summer-season flights will continue through September 8, operated by Boeing 737-8 Max aircraft configured for long-haul routes. Tickets are available now, with schedules designed to connect to Icelandair's European network.

Refreshed cabins enhance transatlantic comfort

The airline has unveiled updated 737-8 Max interiors aimed at improving the long-haul experience. Travelers will find redesigned cabin dividers, updated leather seats, device holders, and new carpeting. In First Class, Alaska has increased capacity to 16 seats and introduced upgraded power options, including USB-C ports. A new tableware collection, inspired by the Pacific Northwest, launches fleetwide in September 2025 and will feature on the Reykjavík flights.

Analysis

Alaska Airlines is carving out an international niche from its Seattle base, positioning itself as a competitor to Delta in long-haul service from the Pacific Northwest. By choosing Reykjavík, Alaska taps into growing U.S. demand for Iceland's natural and cultural attractions, while offering travelers a one-stop gateway to Europe via its partnership with Icelandair. Operating one of the longest U.S. narrowbody transatlantic flights on the 737-8 Max highlights the airline's confidence in fuel-efficient single-aisle aircraft for medium-haul Europe service. For travelers, the cabin refresh and lounge access agreements add value that may help Alaska stand out in a crowded transatlantic market.

Final Thoughts

With daily summer flights from Seattle to Reykjavík beginning May 28, 2026, Alaska Airlines extends its reach into Northern Europe while enhancing comfort aboard its 737-8 Max fleet. The new route strengthens Seattle's role as the airline's global hub and underscores Alaska's ambition to connect West Coast travelers to more of the world. For those planning an Iceland adventure, the carrier's nonstop service offers a streamlined entry point to the Land of Fire and Ice and beyond.