SEATTLE — An Alaska Airlines (AS) representative told Airways that the airline has started validation flights with its Boeing 787 fleet in preparation for new European services from Seattle. Flight-tracking data shows one of the airline’s Boeing 787-9 jets, registered N781HA, operating as AS9965 from Seattle (SEA) to Glasgow Prestwick (PIK).
“This was one of our validation flights ahead of our upcoming service between Seatle and Rome,” the representative said. “These flights are flown without passengers, giving us an opportunity to identify any adjustments we need to make prior to a route’s start of service. The aircraft will remain at the airport until the crew rests up, and then it will head back to Seattle.”
The representative added that Alaska plans to operate “a few more validation flights to Glasgow in the coming weeks,” indicating the airline is using these flights to prepare crews and operations as well as help identify any operational adjustments needed before scheduled passenger service begins.
Alaska's Seattle–Rome launch
Alaska will launch daily seasonal nonstop service between Seattle (SEA) and Rome Fiumicino (FCO) on April 28, 2026, followed by daily year-round flights between Seattle and London Heathrow (LHR) on May 21. Service between Seattle and Reykjavík (KEF) will begin on May 28 as part of the airline’s broader long-haul international expansion from Seattle.
The validation flights are notable not for a new Glasgow route, but because they demonstrate the carrier's active pre-service operational checks as it prepares for its first wave of European flights with the 787. This supports AS's strategy to develop Seattle as a major intercontinental gateway.
On baggage fees, Alaska’s position remains unchanged for now. In a separate official statement shared with Airways, the airline said: “We’re continuing to evaluate the situation, but nothing additional to share right now.”
Featured image: Brandon Farris/Airways
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