Alaska Airlines has launched a new Seattle route from Heathrow, bringing the number of Oneworld member airlines serving London's hub to 14.

Oneworld has strengthened its position at London Heathrow following the launch of Alaska Airlines' new nonstop service between London and Seattle, increasing the alliance's presence at the airport to 14 member carriers.

The new route began operating on May 22, 2026, marking Alaska Airlines' latest international expansion and further enhancing connectivity across the Oneworld network. Heathrow remains the alliance's largest and most important European hub, with member airlines collectively offering nearly 2,800 weekly departures to more than 160 destinations across over 60 countries this summer.

The addition of Alaska Airlines further expands travel options for passengers connecting through Heathrow, which continues to play a critical role in the alliance's global network. Last year, approximately 29 million Oneworld customers travelled to, from or through Heathrow, with almost 30% connecting between member airlines.

According to Oneworld, London is also the most popular destination among travellers booking round-the-world itineraries through the alliance. So far this year, 71% of round-the-world bookings made via the Oneworld platform have included London as part of a multi-stop journey.

Premium travel remains a major component of the Heathrow operation. Oneworld carriers collectively offer more than 160,000 premium seats each week from the airport, serving one of the world's largest business travel markets. Customers also have access to 13 first class and business class lounges operated by British Airways, American Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Qantas and Qatar Airways across Heathrow's Terminals 3, 4 and 5.

Ole Orvér, CEO of Oneworld, says: "With service from the most oneworld carriers and nearly 400 daily departures, London Heathrow is a cornerstone of our global network, where our members work together to deliver smooth connectivity for millions of customers every year. It is also one of the world's leading business travel markets, with more than 160,000 premium seats offered weekly by our airlines, and we are delighted to welcome Alaska Airlines as it launches its inaugural Seattle service from Heathrow, further expanding travel choices for oneworld customers."

For Alaska Airlines, the new service represents an opportunity to strengthen the value of its alliance membership while improving access to destinations beyond London.

Brett Catlin, vice president of loyalty, partnerships and international at Alaska Airlines, says: "As we launch service to London, we're proud to further strengthen the value of our oneworld membership for guests. As one of the world's most important international gateways, London opens up even more seamless options for our guests to connect onward across Europe and beyond through the oneworld alliance."

The majority of Oneworld's Heathrow operations are concentrated in Terminal 3, where Alaska Airlines joins American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Japan Airlines, Qantas, Royal Jordanian and SriLankan Airlines. Qatar Airways, Malaysia Airlines, Oman Air and Royal Air Maroc operate from Terminal 4, while British Airways and Iberia continue to serve passengers from Terminal 5.

Ross Baker, chief customer officer at Heathrow Airport, says: "At Heathrow, we are proud to be the UK's gateway to the world and the most served global hub for the oneworld alliance. Our strong partnership gives passengers more choice, easier connections and a smoother journey every step of the way. The arrival of Alaska Airlines' new Seattle service brings even more option for travellers, whether they're visiting friends and family or travelling for business. With millions of oneworld customers choosing Heathrow each year, we're continuing to work together to make every journey better."

Beyond Heathrow, Oneworld's next largest hubs by member airline presence are Dallas/Fort Worth, Doha, Tokyo Narita and New York JFK, each served by 11 alliance carriers. However, Heathrow remains the alliance's most connected airport worldwide, reinforcing London's role as a key gateway for both leisure and business travellers.