Alaska Airlines restores historic Long Beach to Seattle flight route
For the first time in 17 years, Alaska Airlines has officially resumed its daily non-stop service between Long Beach Airport (LGB) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). This move marks a significant expansion for the carrier in the Southern California market and restores a popular connection that had been absent since 2009. The return to Long Beach is part of a broader strategy by Alaska Airlines to provide more convenient travel options for passengers who prefer the smaller, more manageable environment of Long Beach over the larger hubs like LAX. The daily flights are expected to cater to both business travelers and tourists, strengthening the economic ties between the Pacific Northwest and the Southern California coast.
The reinstatement of the route was celebrated with a special ceremony at Long Beach Airport, featuring local officials and airline executives. Many attendees noted that the 17-year hiatus was felt by the community, as the Seattle connection is one of the most requested routes for local travelers. Alaska Airlines' decision to return was influenced by the recent upgrades to the Long Beach terminal and the increasing demand for regional connectivity. The airline will be utilizing its modern fleet of fuel-efficient aircraft for the route, ensuring a comfortable experience for passengers while also adhering to environmental sustainability goals. For Long Beach, the addition of this daily flight is a major win, as it increases the airport's profile and provides more competition in the local aviation market.
Beyond the immediate benefits to travelers, the new route is expected to have a positive ripple effect on the local economy in Long Beach. Increased foot traffic at the airport supports local jobs and generates revenue for the city through landing fees and passenger taxes. Furthermore, the direct link to Seattle opens up new opportunities for business partnerships and academic exchanges between the two regions. As Alaska Airlines continues to expand its route network from other California cities like Santa Rosa, the return to Long Beach stands out as a flagship moment in its regional growth strategy. Travelers can now enjoy the ease of flying out of one of California's most user-friendly airports while having direct access to the tech and culture hubs of Seattle, marking a new chapter in the long history between these two coastal cities.