Alaska Airlines Expands Asia Network with Seoul Incheon Hub

Airline boosts Seattle-Seoul route, plans to leverage Incheon as a gateway to wider Asia

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Alaska Airlines is strategically positioning Seoul's Incheon International Airport (ICN) as a key hub in its expanding Asian network. The Seattle-Incheon route, launched in September 2025, has already seen strong performance, carrying over 45,000 passengers as of January 31, 2026, and is set to increase to six weekly flights during the summer season. Beyond just a new long-haul route, Alaska Airlines envisions Incheon becoming a gateway not only to Korea but also to wider Southeast Asia and potentially China.

Why it matters

This strategy leverages the growing cultural influence of Korea and the increasing demand for travel to the region. It also reflects a broader trend of West Coast airports seeking to capitalize on growing travel demand in the Asia-Pacific region, as airlines invest in new routes, upgrade fleets, and enhance passenger experience to attract travelers.

The details

To compete in the trans-Pacific market, Alaska Airlines is focusing on enhancing the onboard experience. The Incheon route is currently operated with Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, and the airline plans to roll out Starlink satellite Wi-Fi across its fleet by fall 2026. Alaska Airlines is also differentiating its service by blending Korean and West Coast culinary elements, with plans to introduce popular West Coast brands like Salt & Straw, Straightaway Cocktails, and Stumptown Coffee.

  • The Seattle-Incheon route launched in September 2025.
  • As of January 31, 2026, the route has carried over 45,000 passengers.
  • The route will increase to six weekly flights during the summer season.

The players

Alaska Airlines

An American airline and a subsidiary of the Alaska Air Group.

Incheon International Airport (ICN)

The main international airport serving the Seoul metropolitan area and one of the largest and busiest airports in the world.

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

A major international airport serving the Seattle metropolitan area and a hub for Alaska Airlines.

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What they’re saying

“The success of the Seattle-Incheon route positions Alaska Airlines for further expansion in Asia. The airline is likely to explore opportunities to add new destinations, increase flight frequencies, and strengthen partnerships with other carriers in the region.”

— Samantha Carter, Editor-in-Chief, Newsy-Today.com (Newsy-Today.com)

What’s next

Alaska Airlines is likely to explore opportunities to add new destinations, increase flight frequencies, and strengthen partnerships with other carriers in the Asia-Pacific region to further expand its network.

The takeaway

Alaska Airlines' strategy of positioning Incheon International Airport as a key hub in its expanding Asian network reflects a broader trend of West Coast airports seeking to capitalize on growing travel demand in the Asia-Pacific region, as airlines invest in new routes, upgrade fleets, and enhance passenger experience to attract travelers.