Alaska Airlines plots new Asia route, won't follow rivals with 'basic business'

Alaska Airlines is zeroing in on its next destination in Asia.Speaking last week in Seattle, a top Alaska executive said the carrier was honing in on a new transpacific destination. It would be a new route for Alaska from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)."There will be a new destination in Asia that we're currently working on," Alaska chief commercial officer Andrew Harrison said.Sadly, no hints beyond that: "That's all I can say," he added.SEAN CUDAHY/THE POINTS GUYBut any new Pacific routes would be a notable expansion for Alaska.The airline currently serves just two nonstop destinations in Asia — Narita International Airport (NRT) in Tokyo (NRT) and Incheon International Airport (ICN) in Seoul — both from its SeaTac home base.The carrier has been in the midst of a global growth spree after acquiring Hawaiian Airlines in 2024.And it's not done yet.More from TPG: These are the best times to buy an international flightReward your inbox with the TPG Daily newsletterJoin over 700,000 readers for breaking news, in-depth guides and exclusive deals from TPG’s expertsBy signing up, you will receive newsletters and promotional content and agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledg...