Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines are expanding their international networks with new year-round nonstop service from Seattle to Osaka, Japan, and Papeete, Tahiti, beginning in spring 2027. The routes will give travelers across the United States additional options for reaching Japan and French Polynesia, with connections available through the airlines’ combined network.
Hawaiian Airlines will operate both routes aboard its Airbus A330 aircraft. The Seattle–Osaka service launches May 14, 2027, with four flights per week, while service between Seattle and Papeete begins June 11, 2027, with three flights per week. Both routes are subject to government approval.
For families planning international trips, the expanded service creates new opportunities to reach destinations that offer different kinds of cultural and recreational experiences. Osaka, located in Japan’s Kansai region, is known for its food culture and provides a gateway to nearby destinations including Kyoto, Nara and Kobe. From Papeete, travelers can explore Tahiti and connect to other islands in French Polynesia, including Bora Bora and Moorea.
The new Papeete service will also offer same-day connections to Bora Bora and Moorea, potentially making it easier for families to incorporate multiple islands into one trip without an overnight stop in Tahiti. Through an expanded partnership with Air Tahiti, travelers will also have access to same-day connections to Rarotonga in the Cook Islands.
Both routes will feature Hawaiian Airlines’ onboard hospitality and long-haul amenities, including lie-flat business-class Suites and Starlink Wi-Fi complimentary for Atmos Rewards members, thanks to T-Mobile. The aircraft also offer a selection of movies and television programming for passengers during the journey.
The additions are part of Alaska Air Group’s broader strategy to expand its Seattle hub into a global gateway, with a goal of serving at least 15 long-haul intercontinental destinations by 2030. Osaka and Papeete join a growing international network that includes destinations such as London, Tokyo, Seoul, Rome and Reykjavík.
The airlines are also offering introductory round-trip Main Cabin fares from Seattle, subject to availability. At the time of the announcement, fares started at $1,199 to Osaka and $999 to Papeete, with the promotional offer available through Oct. 26, 2026.
Tickets are available through Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines. Schedules, fares and terms are subject to change.
