Starting Monday, Alaska Airlines will launch nonstop flights from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to Tokyo, Japan, joining three other airlines in providing this service. This development marks a significant step in establishing Seattle as an important international travel hub.
Just two years ago, only 25 airlines served international routes from SEA Airport. By the end of 2025, that figure is expected to rise to 36, reflecting a swift expansion in anticipation of Seattle’s role as a host city for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
By the close of this year, SEA Airport will connect to 33 international destinations, including cities like Copenhagen, Zurich, and Seoul. In 2024, the airport will also introduce direct flights to Toronto, Munich, Taipei, and Manila. Local leaders and tourism experts believe that this enhanced global connectivity will provide substantial economic benefits to the region.
Alaska Airlines’ new Tokyo route follows its recent $2 billion merger with Hawaiian Airlines, which previously operated flights on this route. The first direct flight to Tokyo is set to take off on Monday at 1:30 p.m.
As Seattle gears up to host part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, this expansion in international flights is expected to bolster tourism and stimulate economic growth in the area, showcasing Seattle’s vibrant culture and attractions to a global audience.
