SEATTLE- Alaska Airlines (AS) will operate the longest Boeing 737 flight of any US carrier with the launch of a nonstop service from Seattle Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Reykjavík Keflavík Airport (KEF) starting May 28, 2026.
The 3,622 mile journey will take about 7 hours 25 minutes eastbound and up to 7 hours 55 minutes westbound. This milestone reflects the airline’s growing international network strategy.
Photo: Alaska AirlinesAlaska Airlines Longest 737 Flight
Operating as a summer seasonal service, the new route forms part of Alaska Airlines’ broader ambition to establish Seattle (SEA) as a true international hub.
According to PYOK, the carrier aims to expand with 12 long haul international routes within the next four years.
Beyond Iceland, the airline will begin Boeing 787 Dreamliner services from Seattle to Rome (FCO) and London Heathrow (LHR) in May 2026.
These widebody flights are part of a larger strategy to make Alaska Airlines a more competitive global player.
Photo: Alaska AirlinesPassenger Experience
Unlike widebody aircraft commonly used for transatlantic travel, the Boeing 737 MAX 8 will feature Alaska Airlines’ standard domestic configuration.
Economy passengers will not have access to seatback entertainment or enhanced catering options, though free in-flight Wi-Fi will be available to all travelers.
First Class passengers, limited to just 12 domestic style recliner seats, will benefit from a refreshed dining program being rolled out across the carrier’s narrowbody fleet.
While comfort levels may differ from widebody service, the offering reflects Alaska Airlines’ effort to balance efficiency with customer experience on this unique route.
Photo: Nick Dean | FlickrLimited Use
Thankfully for travelers, the Seattle to Reykjavík route will be the only long haul service operated by Alaska Airlines on a single aisle jet, at least for now.
Other planned long haul routes, such as those to Europe, will rely on the more spacious Boeing 787 Dreamliner.
This strategy balances fuel efficiency on niche routes while ensuring comfort on higher-demand intercontinental services.
Photo: Clément AlloingBottom Line
Alaska Airlines is also undergoing a visual transformation as it steps onto the global stage. The airline has retired the iconic Eskimo character from the tail of its Dreamliners, opting instead for a Northern Lights inspired swoosh of colors across the fuselage and tail.
This rebrand reflects Alaska Airlines’ vision of blending its northern identity with a modern international appeal.
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