‍SEATTLE — Delta Air Lines (DL) is going big in Seattle again. The airline has just announced two brand-new international routes and a sleek dual-lounge setup at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), demonstrating its continued commitment to the Emerald City.

Starting summer 2026, Delta will offer nonstop flights from SEA to both Rome (FCO) and Barcelona (BCN). Alongside that, it’s opening its first-ever Delta One Lounge in Seattle, located right next to a new Delta Sky Club, all under one roof. 

For travelers flying out of SEA, things are about to get a lot more global and a lot more premium!

New Global Connections from SEA

Starting in summer 2026, Delta (DL) will begin nonstop daily service from Seattle to two top European destinations: Rome (FCO) and Barcelona (BCN).

• SEA to Rome begins May 6, 2026
  
• SEA to Barcelona launches May 7, 2026

Both routes will be operated by Delta’s Airbus A330-900, which includes Delta One Suites, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort+, and Main Cabin options. These additions bring the number of international destinations served by Delta (DL) from Seattle to 10.

For travelers in the Pacific Northwest looking to reach Southern Europe without a connection, this is a significant convenience.

A Lounging Game Changer at SEA

Delta (DL) isn’t just adding new routes. It’s also raising the bar for lounges at SEA with something new: a two-level lounge space near Gate A11 in Concourse A. On the top level, there’s a Delta One Lounge, the first of its kind in Seattle,. and just below it, a refreshed Delta Sky Club.

The entire space spans 24,000 square feet, featuring a design that incorporates wood, stone, and emerald-green accents, evoking the Pacific Northwest vibe. There’s also a showstopper piece of art: a large, hanging sculpture called "Time to Migrate" by Seattle artist Pam Kueny Taylor.

• The Delta One Lounge will have indoor seating for 149 guests and a terrace with space for 72
  
• The Sky Club below will hold 183 guests, with wide windows looking out over the airfield
  

This combo lounge concept is new for SEA, and it's built to serve both premium international flyers and Sky Club members in a shared, high-end space.

Local Flavor, Touchless ID

Inside the lounges, Delta (DL) is keeping things cozy and local. The Sky Club menu will rotate daily with Northwest flavors; think Seattle-style clam chowder, grilled lemon chicken, and fresh salads. Starbucks coffee will be available, alongside signature cocktails and a variety of snacks.

The Delta One Lounge will feature elevated amenities tailored to premium international travellers, including restaurant-style dining, direct gate access, and dedicated concierge services.

Starting June 25, 2025, Delta (DL) will also launch its Touchless ID experience at SEA. If you have TSA PreCheck, a passport, and the Fly Delta app, you can check your bag and go through security with just a facial scan; no need to pull out your ID or boarding pass.

This tech is already live in Atlanta (ATL), Detroit (DTW), and Los Angeles (LAX), and it’s rolling out to more airports throughout the year. For Seattle flyers, it’s a simple upgrade that can significantly reduce the friction of travel.

A Decade of Growth, Competition

Seattle has gradually assumed a larger role in Delta’s (DL) network over the past decade. The airline named SEA a hub back in 2014 and has since added more flights, made upgrades at the airport, and increased its presence across the region. On an average day, Delta now runs more than 150 departures from Seattle, covering over 50 destinations. 

According to the airline, its activities in Washington State have had an economic impact of over $5 billion since 2012, through a combination of job creation, partnerships, and investments in the local community.

Delta’s Seattle expansion also turns up the heat on competitors like Alaska Airlines (AS), which considers SEA its home turf. But Delta seems confident in its strategy of offering global connectivity, upgraded lounges, and premium services. 

The addition of new routes and lounge spaces reflects Delta’s (DL) effort to accommodate a broader mix of international and domestic traffic through Seattle, particularly as passenger demand continues to shift toward long-haul and premium travel.

Final Approach

Between fresh international routes and stylish new lounges, Delta (DL) is clearly betting big on Seattle’s future as a key international gateway. Whether you're flying to Asia, heading south to Texas, or just relaxing before your flight, it appears like Seattle travellers now have more to look forward to when flying with Delta.

For more updates on global airline network changes, lounge upgrades, and exclusive travel insights, stay tuned to Airways. Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for the latest updates as well!