Alaska Airlines Launches First Long-Haul Service from Seattle to Tokyo

Seattle, WA — In a pivotal move for its international expansion, Alaska Airlines, in partnership with Hawaiian Airlines, will commence daily nonstop flights from Seattle to Tokyo’s Narita Airport on May 12, 2025. This marks Alaska Airlines’ first long-haul route from Seattle, utilizing an Airbus A330, highlighting its ambition to enter the competitive transpacific market.

This new route comes on the heels of Alaska Airlines’ merger with Hawaiian Airlines, which was approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation in September 2024. The strategic collaboration is designed to enhance both airlines’ networks, offering more travel options and strengthening competition in a route already served by major carriers like Delta, Japan Airlines (JAL), and All Nippon Airways (ANA).

Delta currently leads the route with its Airbus A350 and A330 aircraft, while JAL and ANA also provide robust services with their Boeing 787 options. Alaska and Hawaiian’s new route aims to carve out a niche by fulfilling growing demand for transpacific travel, providing approximately 190,000 seats annually.

Alaska Airlines plans to establish at least 12 international routes from Seattle by 2030, focusing on strategic connections across Asia and Europe. This Seattle-Tokyo service is a significant milestone in its long-haul growth strategy, benefiting travelers and reinforcing its position in the transpacific market.

As competition intensifies, the collaboration expects to attract diverse passengers, from business travelers to tourists. The new daily service illustrates a commitment to providing better connectivity and enhanced travel experiences.