In May 2026, multiple major airlines are initiating new transatlantic routes, significantly expanding their European networks and intensifying competition on key markets.
Alaska Airlines is launching a daily service between Seattle and London Heathrow on May 21, using Boeing 787-9 aircraft. Additionally, seasonal flights to Reykjavik Keflavik are scheduled to commence on May 28. These routes place Alaska Airlines in direct competition within one of Seattle's most lucrative long-haul markets, which is currently served by British Airways, Delta, and Virgin Atlantic.
Expanding U.S. and European Connections
Delta Air Lines is responding to Alaska’s expansion with the launch of Seattle-Rome and Seattle-Barcelona services, commencing on May 6 and 7 respectively, both operated with Airbus A330neos. The airline is increasing its transatlantic destinations from Seattle to five, including Amsterdam, Paris, and London Heathrow. Delta is also adding seasonal routes from Boston to Madrid and Nice, and summer flights from New York JFK.
"The addition of new routes from Seattle and Boston enhances our transatlantic network, providing more options for passengers and strengthening our presence in key markets," said a Delta spokesperson.
United Airlines is expanding its European reach by launching services from Newark to Split, Bari, Reykjavik, and Santiago de Compostela, diversifying into lesser-served destinations.
American Airlines is increasing its European presence with daily seasonal flights from Philadelphia to Budapest and Prague, utilizing Boeing 787-8 aircraft. The airline is also launching daily flights from Dallas/Fort Worth to Athens, operated with Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. JetBlue is adding a seasonal daily route from Boston to Milan Malpensa using Airbus A321neos. Aer Lingus plans to connect Dublin with Pittsburgh via Airbus A321LRs on a year-round basis.
Finnair will resume flights to Canada for the first time in over a decade, starting Helsinki-Toronto routes on May 4, operated with Airbus A330-300 aircraft. This move reflects Finnair’s strategic shift westward amid ongoing Russian airspace restrictions impacting its long-haul operations.
