Alaska Airlines Just Unveiled Its First International Business Class Suites
Alaska Airlines' first International Business Class - lie-flat suites, Filson bedding, Salt & Straw dessert cart, and new 787-9 routes to Rome, London, Seoul.
Alaska Airlines announced this week its first-ever International Business Class product, debuting this spring on new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners as the airline begins long-haul service to Europe and Asia from Seattle. For a carrier that built its reputation on West Coast domestic flying, this is a big development - and for AAdvantage members who fly Alaska regularly via the oneworld partnership, it opens up some brand new international redemption opportunities.
It's also worth noting that the announcement also lands on Alaska's five-year anniversary as a oneworld member. The alliance has been the foundation for Alaska's international ambitions since 2021, and this is where we're really starting to see it.
The Product
Alaska's new business class cabin on the 787-9 has 34 fully lie-flat suites in a 1-2-1 configuration, meaning every passenger has direct aisle access. Each suite has a sliding privacy door, wireless charging, an 18-inch HD entertainment screen, noise-reducing headsets, and personal power outlets. The center pairs include adjustable dividers for couples or travel companions flying together.
Image via Alaska Newsroom
The design language draws from Alaska's Pacific Northwest heritage. The product features deep greens, cool blues, and warm neutrals described as being inspired by coastal forests, northern lights, and Pacific waters. Bedding is in partnership with Filson, a Seattle-based heritage outfitter, and features a mattress pad, sleeping pillow, lumbar pillow, and duvet. The amenity kit is also Filson-branded and contains Salt & Stone skincare products.
Image via Alaska Newsroom
Dining
Alaska is leaning hard on the food program as a differentiator, and the details are interesting. The welcome service features a cheese and charcuterie board paired with Roederer Champagne, West Coast and European wines including Stag's Leap, handcrafted cocktails, West Coast craft beer, and Stumptown coffee. This is a big upgrade from the beloved Fruit and Cheese plate we know from Alaska's domestic flights.
Image via Alaska Newsroom
The main dining service will offer up to six route-specific entrée choices. On Rome flights, that includes roasted chicken with pasta carbonara. On Seoul flights, Gochujang chicken with traditional banchan. There's also a Chef's Table option across all routes - a short rib from Klingemann Farms developed with Seattle chef Brady Ishiwata Williams. As with all Alaska flights, meals can be pre-ordered through the Alaska app prior to departure.
Image via Alaska Newsroom
Desert includes Salt & Straw a Portland-based artisan ice cream chain with a following on the west coast. The product reminds me of AA's famous ice cream offering, also offering a customizable sundae service. Before arrival, passengers get a destination-inspired light meal - like a full English breakfast on London flights.
Image via Alaska Newsroom
Routes and Timeline
The 787-9 with International Business Class launches on these routes from Seattle:
| Route | Start Date |
|---|---|
| Seattle to Rome (FCO) | April 28, 2026 |
| Seattle to London (LHR) | May 21, 2026 |
| Seoul (ICN) | April 2026 |
| Tokyo (NRT) | Fall 2026 |
Reykjavík launches May 28 but operates on a 737 MAX 8 with a separate upgraded premium experience tailored to that roughly seven-hour route. No suites on that one.
Starlink Wi-Fi is not available at launch — it's scheduled for installation on the 787-9 fleet this fall. Alaska's T-Mobile partnership means it will be free when it arrives, which is a good offer. For now, the connectivity picture at launch is an open question.
What This Means for AAdvantage Members
These routes are a great addition for AAdvantage miles holders and are worth watching closely. The route map opens up connections through Seattle that weren't previously available and provides more ways to get to key oneworld hubs like London Heathrow. Beyond the routes, it's exciting to see Alaska continuing to lean into their Pacific North West heritage with their new seats, cabin style, and catering options for these flights. I'm excited to see what points inventory looks like as it becomes available.
Source: Alaska Airlines Newsroom
Related: Alaska Airlines Boarding Groups Guide · AAdvantage Platinum Pro Benefits