Alaska Airlines starts direct flights from Seattle to Tokyo

Alaska Airlines has officially launched nonstop flights from Seattle to Tokyo, significantly improving travel options for the Pacific Northwest. The inaugural service began today and follows the airline's recent $1 billion merger with Hawaiian Airlines, facilitating better connections between Hawaii and Japan. Travelers will enjoy daily flights on Hawaiian Airlines' Airbus A330, with a flight time of approximately 10. 5 hours. Alaska Airlines is committed to expanding its international reach, targeting 12 destinations by 2030.

The Tokyo Narita Airport is a vital hub for both leisure and business travel, making this service particularly relevant. Additionally, the airline plans to introduce nonstop flights to Seoul, South Korea, earlier than expected, starting on September 12. This move comes as Alaska Airlines aims to recover from a decline in leisure travel demand following the pandemic. The airline's Seattle hub remains the largest on the West Coast, serving over 100 nonstop destinations across North America.