Due to strong demand, Alaska will make its new Seattle/Tacoma – Rome route a daily Boeing 787 flight

Alaska Airlines is now selling tickets to Rome from our expanding global gateway in Seattle – another milestone as a growing global airline. We’ll offer daily, seasonal summer service between Seattle and Leonardo da Vinci Fiumicino International Airport in Rome beginning on April 28, 2026.

Due to strong guest response, we increased the Seattle-Rome flight frequency from 4 times a week to daily. We’re the only airline offering the convenience of a daily nonstop. On board, guests will enjoy a reimagined global travel experience on our widebody, long-haul 787 Dreamliner aircraft.

Guests can purchase roundtrip airfares to Rome as low as $599 at alaskaair.com. We’ll soon begin ticket sales for our new daily, year-round service between Seattle and London Heathrow, which also starts flying next spring.

Imagine exploring the sun-splashed ancient landmarks of Rome or strolling along the vibrant Thames in London. Alaska’s new international flights can take you to the heart of all the action – infused with the award-winning service, comfort and care that you expect from us as we connect the Pacific Northwest and Europe. Rome and London are two of the most popular and requested nonstop destinations from Seattle.

With our nonstop service from Seattle to Rome and London, we’re opening the door to two of the world’s most iconic regions with the style and care our guests expect from us. These new routes mark a tremendous step in our global expansion and reflect our commitment to delivering a premium international experience from Seattle. We’re elated to connect the Pacific Northwest to more of the world.”

Andrew Harrison

Chief commercial officerAlaska Airlines

With Atmos™ Rewards, our award-winning loyalty program designed to deliver more choice, more rewards and more global access than ever before to our members, trips to Rome and London will earn big points: 1 point and 1 status point per mile flown. (Points can be redeemed for flights, hotels and more, and status points track progress toward status levels and milestones.) Later in 2026, members can choose how they earn based on distance traveled, price paid or segments flown – whichever works best for them.

Plus, Atmos Titanium status holders will receive complimentary lie-flat upgrades on our intercontinental routes on the day of departure, beginning in spring 2026, subject to availability. We’re the only airline loyalty program to offer this upgrade type without requiring a certificate or points.

New nonstop service to Italy

City pair	Start	End	Departure	Arrival
Seattle – Rome	April 28, 2026	October	5:30 p.m.	1:15 p.m. +1
Rome – Seattle	April 29, 2026	October	3:25 p.m.	5:45 p.m.

All times local

A new Alaska global experience

Alaska is introducing a new curb-to-cabin experience on our widebody aircraft that will set the bar for international journeys from the U.S. What we’re sharing today is the first glimpse of the world-class experience we’re curating.

This is the Alaska experience our guests already love – taken to an entirely new level. We’re building the most extraordinary guest experience of any U.S. airline flying internationally. Our guests will feel the difference from the moment they take off to the moment they arrive.”

Todd Traynor-Corey

Vice president of guest products and experienceAlaska Airlines

Business Class amenities

Ultimate comfort with 34 enclosed suites outfitted with fully lie-flat seats in a 1-2-1 seating configuration, privacy doors, direct aisle access from every seat, 18” HD monitors to enjoy inflight entertainment with noise-reducing headsets, a power outlet at each seat and wireless charging
Enjoy Alaska Lounge access to kick off your journey in style with West Coast-inspired light meals, wines, brews and cocktails in a relaxing space
Multi-course, elevated dining on board with a variety of selections to choose from that can be pre-ordered, along with fine wines and inspired cocktails
We’re creating a culinary journey by bringing the best of the West Coast to the world with our Chef’s (tray) Table program, and partnerships with Salt and Straw, Straightaway Cocktails and Stumptown Coffee, to name a few
Enhanced comfort and care with Filson bedding and blankets, and amenity products by Salt & Stone – collaborations with our West Coast partners

Alaska Global Livery for the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner

Premium Class and Main Cabin amenities

Premium Class seating that offers more legroom, priority boarding and personal power outlets
Two chef-inspired meals served in Premium Class and the Main Cabin during the flight, along with complimentary beer and wine (complimentary spirits are also offered in Premium Class)
An extra layer of comfort with Filson blankets and comfort kits with Salt & Stone products
Free onboard entertainment provided with seatback monitors showcasing new release movies and classic films, as well as dozens of TV show

Alaska is set to bring ultra-fast Starlink Wi-Fi to our 787-9 aircraft in fall 2026. The service will be free for Atmos Rewards members thanks to T-Mobile.

Our Seattle Global Gateway: Home base for the Dreamliner

In addition to serving Rome and London from Seattle next spring, we currently fly the Dreamliner to Seoul Incheon. The aircraft will begin serving Seattle-Tokyo Narita in 2026, a route that has been flown with the A330 since May. (We start flying to Reykjavik, Iceland, on May 28, 2026, with a 737 MAX 8 aircraft.)

Future Plans

By 2030, we plan to serve at least 12 intercontinental destinations from Seattle, with additional routes to be announced in the years to come. We currently have four 787-9s in our fleet; a fifth is scheduled to be delivered by the end of this year.

To support Alaska’s transformation, we’re establishing a 787 hub in Seattle, deploying up to 17 Dreamliners across our global network. Our Seattle home base is the largest airline hub on the West Coast, serving 109 nonstop destinations across our network for convenient travel options and connections.

Hawaiian Airlines’ widebody A330s, dedicated to long-haul flights to and from Hawai‘i and based in Honolulu, will undergo substantial upgrades over the next few years, including all-new interiors, updated lie-flat seats and refreshed main cabin seating.

Air Caraïbes and the Spirit of the French West Indies

ATR issued this story:

In the French Caribbean, flying isn’t just about getting from A to B. It’s about keeping communities connected, cultures alive, and the rhythm of island life flowing. Discover how Air Caraïbes and its ATR fleet make this possible.

A Sky Full of Stories

To fly in the French Caribbean is to glide over turquoise waters, lush green peaks, and sun-drenched coastlines. But beyond the postcard beauty lies a deeper truth: aviation here is essential. It’s a thread that ties together the lives of people across islands separated by sea, but united in shared culture, family ties, and daily rhythms.

Air Caraïbes, with its fleet of ATR 72-600, has been weaving this thread since 2000, serving the islands of Guadeloupe, Martinique and Saint Martin. And its network provides connections to other Caribbean islands, while also linking the entire region with long-haul connections to Paris, with A350s. While this stunning video captures the visual poetry of these flights, the real story is about connection: human, geographic, and emotional.

Flying Between Islands Isn’t Like Flying Anywhere Else

Short runways. Mountainous terrain. Unpredictable aerology. These are just some of the challenges pilots face in the region. Lohann Chong-Pan, a pilot with Air Caraïbes, describes the approach into Saint Martin’s Grand Case airport as one of the most complex in the network, and one of the most beautiful.

The runway is short, the winds are tricky, and the mountains nearby demand precision, but flying here is a joy – no sunset is ever the same. “I love the flight line into Saint Martin,” says Chong-Pan. “As well as the short runway, pilots have to be aware of the mountains in near proximity, and the atmospheric conditions – the ‘aerology’ that warm air and high mountains create.”

It’s in these conditions that ATR turboprop aircraft shine.

“Using the ATR on a short-haul, and ultra-short-haul network is highly efficient,” says Eric Michel, Air Caraïbes’ Managing Director West Indies. With CO₂ emissions 45% lower than those of regional jets, ATR aircraft support Air Caraïbes in its sustainability efforts. “We have the latest ATR series, with the latest Pratt and Whitney PW127XT engines, with a fuel consumption that is really low.”

Their agility, reliability, and low environmental impact make them perfectly suited to the region’s needs – not just technically, but socially.

ATR Turboprop Aircraft - Air Caraibe infographic

A Lifeline, Not a Luxury

For many islanders, flying isn’t optional. It’s the only way to maintain family ties, attend school, do business, or access healthcare. The 35-minute flight between Pointe-à-Pitre and Fort-de-France, for example, carries a mix of business travellers, tourists, and families visiting loved ones.

During Hurricane Irma, Air Caraïbes played a vital role in emergency response. Chong-Pan recalls making the last flights into Saint Martin before the cyclone hit. “A few days later, I experienced the vital importance of air transport for the population. The airlifts and humanitarian aid provided during this period by Air Caraïbes, especially with its ATRs, were essential in dealing with the disaster. It really reinforced my awareness of the crucial role of our profession.”

And while ferries do exist, they’re not a reliable alternative. Rough seas can cancel crossings for days, and travel times are long. Ferries don’t serve same-day business trips, and seasickness is common. In contrast, aircraft are the first to resume service after storms, making them essential for urgent travel and continuity.

Beyond Borders: Code-Share Connections

Air Caraïbes transports around 385,000 passengers annually on its regional ATR network, and 1.6 million across its full transatlantic and Caribbean operations. These numbers reflect not just demand, but the essential nature of air travel in the region.

And while the airline isn’t looking to expand its regional footprint, it’s strengthening it through partnerships. Code-share agreements with airlines like Caribbean Airlines allow passengers to move freely across the region, even when demand is modest.

These connections support regional mobility and cultural exchange, especially among younger travellers attending festivals or language immersion programmes. They also help bring Caribbean passengers into the French network, despite challenges like visa requirements and language barriers.

The Caribbean Way of Life, in the Air

More than a journey, flying with Air Caraïbes is an experience steeped in Caribbean warmth and resilience. When you step on board an Air Caraïbes flight, your fellow passengers – and their reasons for travel – will be as diverse as you can imagine. French-speaking students might be travelling to Anglophone islands, like Trinidad, to pick up language skills. And vice versa. Grandmothers visiting family in Martinique, or tourists discovering the islands for the first time, the ATR flights are part of the story.

“The airplane is a fundamental means of transport for us islanders. Without it, we simply cannot leave or return to Martinique,” says Celia Sainville from the Habitation Clément, a distillery based on an old plantation in the south-east of Martinique, and a top tourist attraction as well as arts and heritage centre. As the owner of a business which is itself reliant on a steady flow of tourists, Sainville highlights the central role of air transport on her island and beyond. “It’s what brings visitors to discover our destination, to explore everything we have to offer: our culture, our people, and the places shaped by those who live here.”

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Air China Cargo becomes new A350F freighter customer

Air China Cargo Co., Ltd. (hereafter referred to as “Air China Cargo”) has signed a purchase agreement for six A350F becoming the first customer to order the all-new A350F in the Chinese mainland.

Air China Cargo, headquartered in Beijing, is China’s only cargo airline that carries the national flag. Since June 2025, the airline has been operating all cargo aircraft in North China, East China, South China, and Southwest China. It has also opened 25 all-cargo routes to major regions and cities around the world, including Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Americas and the Middle East. The airline’s dedicated freighter and passenger belly network is further supplemented by more than 1,500 global ground trucking routes.

Engineered as the world’s most advanced freighter aircraft, the A350F is designed to meet the evolving needs of the global air cargo market (Express, general cargo, special cargo, etc.). It will carry up to 111 tonnes and cover a range of 8,700 km. Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, it will offer up to 40% reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions compared to previous generation aircraft.

Air Algérie takes delivery of its first Airbus A330neo

Air Algérie has taken delivery of its first Airbus A330-900, marking a significant milestone in the modernisation of its long-haul fleet and in its long-standing partnership with Airbus. The A330-900 will play a key role in Air Algérie expansion plans from Algiers, enabling the launch of new transatlantic and Asian routes.

Air Algérie is set to receive 7 additional A330neo and will become the largest operator of the aircraft type in Africa. The A330neo will bring new levels of performance, economics and passenger comfort. Air Algerie’s A330neo is configured in a comfortable three-class cabin layout with 18 full-flat seats in Business, 24 in Premium Economy and 266 in Economy class.

New Pacific Airlines and beOnd Announce “beOnd America” to Bring the World’s First Premium Leisure Airline Experience to the U.S.

New Pacific Airlines (NPA) and beOnd, the world’s first premium leisure airline, today announced the launch of beOnd America. This new strategic collaboration will bring beOnd’s acclaimed all-business class travel experience to U.S. travelers through New Pacific’s U.S. operations.

The partnership combines beOnd’s global luxury brand with New Pacific’s FAA-certified operational expertise in specialized sports and government charter operations, as well as U.S. infrastructure. beOnd America will serve as a bridge between the two companies, expanding access to exclusive destinations and redefining how premium leisure travel is delivered from the United States.

Under this framework, New Pacific will operate flights marketed under the beOnd brand, with the two airlines collaborating on customer experience, scheduling, and network development. The initiative aims to position the U.S. as a key pillar in beOnd’s multi-AOC network, which includes licensed operations in the Maldives.

Pursuant to the agreement, NPA will operate eight (8) aircraft with the beOnd brand and product. The route structure and timelines remain subject to regulatory approvals, both partners confirmed that beOnd America will operate in full compliance with U.S. Department of Transportation and Federal Aviation Administration rules, ensuring a safe and transparent path to market introduction.

Hawaiian Airlines debuts exclusive collectibles available only inflight

Starting today, guests can ask a crewmember for one of four exclusive trading cards designed in partnership with Hawaiian Airlines pilots, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA).
In an industry first, we’re launching digital cards representing the 66 Hawaiian Airlines aircraft. Every design is unique and inspired by the name given to each aircraft before it entered service.
Our youngest guests can also now score a pair of clippable Keiki Wings from a flight attendant during their next Hawaiian Airlines flight.

Exclusive inflight collectibles are making a splash across our Hawaiian Airlines fleet today — including a new set of pilot trading cards, a first-of-its-kind collectible digital card program and clippable wings for our youngest guests.

Air Canada and Tilley Turn Wanderlust into a One-of-a-Kind Iconic Hat

Air Canada made this announcement:

Whether your dream destinations are near or far, they can now stay top of mind! Air Canada and heritage outfitter Tilley have teamed up to launch the limited-edition Air Canada x Tilley Bucket List Hat. Combining Tilley’s storied craftsmanship with Air Canada’s spirit of exploration, this exclusive collaboration puts an innovative twist on an iconic travel hat that’s ready to join you in exploring the airline’s far-reaching network.

Designed in sleek black and adorned with Air Canada’s famous maple leaf rondelle, this reimagined take on the T1 Iconic Tilley is handmade in Canada. It features 90 dream-worthy Air Canada destinations printed under the brim; a first-of-its-kind print innovation no other Tilley hat has ever featured. The hats are available now at Tilley flagship stores across Canada and online for $109 CAD, while quantities last.

Where Will Your Bucket List Hat Take You?

Every year, Air Canada carries millions of adventurers to the world’s favourite cities and hidden gems far from the beaten path. With routes to cultural capitals like Paris, and Tokyo, and up-and-coming cities like Naples, Porto, and Prague, Air Canada’s network opens the door to more of the world than ever before.

Whether it’s a weekend escape or milestone trip, Air Canada connects Canadians to experiences that stay with them long after they return home. Beginning this winter, discover the colours and flavours of Guatemala and Guadalajara, the rhythms of Rio, and the awe-inspiring landscapes of Peru. And by summer 2026, the airline will add the breathtaking locales of Mallorca, Catania – Sicily, and Budapest to the map, inspiring travellers to dream bigger and collect new stamps in their passports.

About Tilley Endurables Inc.

Founded in 1980, Tilley Endurables is globally renowned for its meticulously designed outdoor hats and apparel. With a focus on sustainable materials and a commitment to lifetime quality, Tilley products are essential for any adventure.

Air Canada aircraft slide show (historical liveries):

This Day in Airline History: Remembering American flight AA587

The crash of American Airlines flight AA587 on November 12, 2001 (click the photo for the full details):

Avianca announces leadership transition: Gabriel Oliva is appointed as President of Avianca Group

Avianca announced its succession plan for the airline. Frederico Pedreira will step down from his role as Chief Executive Officer, effective February 28, 2026, after five years with the company. To further strengthen the airline’s leadership structure and ensure a smooth transition, Avianca’s Board of Directors has approved the creation of a President position, to be filled by Gabriel Oliva concurrently with his COO role, effective immediately. Frederico will remain as CEO until February 28th to ensure full continuity and alignment across the organization.

Since Frederico joining Avianca in 2021 as Chief Operating Officer—and later serving as Deputy CEO and then as CEO — he has played a key role in leading the airline through a transformation that strengthened its financial position, optimized its network, and positioned Avianca as one of the region’s most competitive and efficient carriers, all while reinforcing the company’s mission to connect the region and make flying accessible to everyone. Under Frederico’s leadership, Avianca continued to grow its network to over 160 routes and 80 destinations, transporting more than 38 million passengers in 2024, and becoming a stronger, more efficient, and more accessible airline for travelers across Latin America.

Avianca (Colombia) aircraft slide show:

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Air Karachi is set to start operations in 2026

Air Karachi is Pakistan’s newest private airline, officially launched on November 3, 2025, with plans to begin operations on March 23, 2026—coinciding with Pakistan Day. The airline received its Regular Public Transport (RPT) license from the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority, allowing it to operate domestic flights initially. Its leadership includes Air Vice Marshal (R) Syed Imran Majid Ali, H.I. (M), as CEO, and a consortium of prominent Karachi-based business leaders including Hanif Gohar, Aqeel Karim Dhedhi, Arif Habib, and Khalid Tawab. The founding shareholders have collectively invested Rs 5 billion (approximately $17.5 million USD), with individual contributions of Rs 50 million (around $175,000 USD).

Air Karachi will begin with a fleet of three leased aircraft, all compliant with RPT requirements—under 18 years old and with at least 50% of their operating life remaining. Initial routes will connect major Pakistani cities such as Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Multan, Peshawar, Quetta, and Sukkur. After one year of successful domestic operations, the airline plans to expand internationally to destinations including Jeddah, Riyadh, Dammam, Muscat, and the UAE.

To support its operations, Air Karachi has signed a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) agreement with Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). It has also partnered with InteliSys Aviation to deploy the AmeliaRES cloud-based passenger service system, which will manage reservations, check-in, and boarding. Meezan Bank is serving as the airline’s financial partner.

The airline’s branding emphasizes ambition, unity, and excellence, with a logo unveiled by Laiba Gohar. CEO Imran Majid Ali stated that Air Karachi aims to deliver safe, efficient, and affordable air travel while contributing to employment and the growth of Pakistan’s aviation ecosystem. The launch event was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, PCAA, PIA, and foreign embassies, signaling strong institutional support for the venture.

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