Alaska Air Group celebrates a significant milestone in the Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines merger. The group will place a focus on Seattle as a new global gateway, connecting travelers worldwide.
This exciting development includes new nonstop flights operated by Hawaiian Airlines’ widebody aircraft.
Service will begin in 2025, connecting Seattle to Tokyo Narita (NRT) in Japan and Seoul Incheon (ICN) in South Korea. Additionally, a revamped domestic network for both airlines launches this spring.
Daily Flights to Tokyo from May
Starting May 12, 2025, daily nonstop flights will connect Seattle with Tokyo Narita. This enticing option for Pacific Northwest travelers to Japan utilizes Hawaiian’s comfortable Airbus A330-200 aircraft.
Passengers can book these flights now, along with connecting flights to other Asian destinations through oneworld Alliance partner Japan Airlines, at Alaska Air and Hawaiian Airlines websites.
Seoul Service Commences in October
Travelers can expect nonstop service between Seattle and Seoul Incheon to begin in October 2025. Fares will be available for purchase early next year, along with more flight details.
“We’re thrilled to offer our guests these new nonstop flights to Tokyo and Seoul, two of the world’s most vibrant cities,” shared Ben Minicucci, Chief Executive Officer at Alaska Air Group.
“Our Seattle global gateway allows for seamless connections for travelers across our network venturing to Asia and beyond. Hawaiian’s spacious widebody aircraft, exceptional onboard service, and amenities will ensure a delightful travel experience across the Pacific Rim.”
Seattle Hub Expansion
Alaska Air Group boasts the largest West Coast hub, offering convenient connections and travel options with 104 nonstop destinations across North America.
The addition of Tokyo Narita and Seoul Incheon brings the company closer to its goal of serving at least 12 nonstop global destinations with long-haul widebody aircraft from Seattle by 2030. Stay tuned for future announcements regarding additional destinations and launch dates.
Strategic Shifts for Hawaiʻi-Japan Service
The new widebody service between Seattle and Tokyo Narita allows for a capacity adjustment between Hawaiʻi and Japan, a market experiencing decreased leisure travel post-pandemic.
By repositioning aircraft from the Honolulu-Tokyo Narita route to Seattle, Hawaiian will offer more flights between Honolulu and Tokyo Haneda (HND), the other major airport in Japan’s capital.
Service will increase from 12 to 14 weekly flights. Hawaiian will continue providing nonstop service between Honolulu and both Osaka and Fukuoka, resulting in a total of 24 weekly roundtrips between Hawaiʻi and Japan.
Domestic Network Takes Flight
The newly combined domestic network is being enhanced with strategic adjustments in flight schedules, destinations, and aircraft types.
These changes prioritize improved performance, expanded growth opportunities, and increased choice, network connectivity, and convenience for passengers. Adjustments begin rolling out in late March with the spring schedule and continue throughout the second quarter.