Key Takeaways
• Southwest Airlines will launch first transatlantic flight to Reykjavík in 2026 via a codeshare with Icelandair.
• Southwest requested US DOT permission to fly to countries with Open Skies agreements, enabling global expansion.
• New policies include assigned seating, baggage fees, and red-eye flights to support international operations.
Southwest Airlines Prepares for First Transatlantic Flight: What Travelers and Immigrants Need to Know
Southwest Airlines, long known as a major domestic carrier in the United States 🇺🇸, is preparing to launch its first transatlantic flight to Reykjavík, Iceland in 2026. This move, announced on June 9, 2025, signals a major shift for the airline as it looks to compete with global carriers and expand its reach far beyond its traditional routes. The plan involves a new codeshare agreement with Icelandair and a request to the U.S. Department of Transportation for permission to fly to any country with an Open Skies agreement with the United States 🇺🇸. For immigrants, travelers, and anyone interested in international mobility, these changes could have a big impact on travel options, visa processes, and how people move between countries.
Below, we break down what this means, how Southwest Airlines is making these changes, and what it could mean for different groups of people.
Southwest Airlines’ Transatlantic Leap: The Basics
Who: Southwest Airlines, a major U.S. low-cost airline
What: Plans to launch its first transatlantic flight to Reykjavík, Iceland
When: As early as 2026
Where: Initial route from Baltimore (BWI) to Reykjavík (KEF), with future expansion possible
Why: To expand internationally, compete with global airlines, and offer new travel options
How: Through a codeshare agreement with Icelandair and use of its Boeing 737 MAX fleet
This move is not just about adding a new route. It represents a major change in how Southwest Airlines operates, opening up new possibilities for travelers, immigrants, and even businesses looking to connect across the Atlantic.
Why Reykjavík? The Strategic Choice
Southwest Airlines’ decision to start its transatlantic journey with Reykjavík is not random. There are several reasons why Iceland’s capital city is the perfect starting point:
- Seasonal Appeal: Reykjavík is a popular summer destination, attracting tourists with its natural beauty, midnight sun, and unique culture.
- Transatlantic Hub: Iceland’s location makes it a natural stopover between North America and Europe. Many airlines use Reykjavík as a connecting point for flights to other European cities.
- Aircraft Capability: The Boeing 737 MAX, which Southwest already operates, can fly the distance between Baltimore and Reykjavík without needing a larger, more expensive plane.
By choosing Reykjavík, Southwest can test the waters of transatlantic travel without taking on too much risk or cost. This approach also allows the airline to use its existing fleet and infrastructure, keeping things simple and efficient.
Codeshare Agreement with Icelandair: What It Means for Travelers
A key part of Southwest’s plan is its new codeshare agreement with Icelandair. A codeshare agreement is when two airlines agree to sell seats on each other’s flights. For travelers, this means:
- More Destinations: You can buy a ticket from Southwest Airlines that takes you to Reykjavík and then connects you to other European cities served by Icelandair.
- Easier Booking: You can book your entire trip through Southwest, even if part of your journey is on Icelandair.
- Loyalty Benefits: Southwest’s Rapid Rewards members can earn and use points on these new routes, making it easier to travel internationally using points.
This partnership is similar to what other airlines do when they want to expand their networks without buying new planes or flying to every destination themselves.
Southwest’s Request to the U.S. Department of Transportation
Southwest Airlines has filed a request with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to fly to any country that has an Open Skies agreement with the United States 🇺🇸. An Open Skies agreement is a deal between two countries that allows airlines from both countries to fly freely between them, without many restrictions.
If the DOT approves this request, Southwest could eventually fly to countries in:
- Europe
- Latin America
- Asia
- Africa
This would be a huge expansion from Southwest’s current international routes, which are mostly limited to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America.
For more information about Open Skies agreements and how they work, you can visit the U.S. Department of State’s Open Skies Agreements page.
How Southwest’s Expansion Affects Immigration and Travel
For immigrants, students, and families with ties to Europe, this new transatlantic flight could make travel easier and more affordable. Here’s how:
- More Flight Options: Direct flights from the United States 🇺🇸 to Reykjavík mean more choices for people traveling between North America and Europe.
- Lower Costs: Southwest is known for its low fares. This could make transatlantic travel more affordable for families, students, and immigrants visiting relatives or moving between countries.
- Simpler Connections: With the codeshare agreement, travelers can book a single ticket from a U.S. city to a European destination, making the journey less complicated.
According to analysis from VisaVerge.com, this move could also encourage other airlines to add more routes and lower prices, increasing competition and benefiting travelers.
Changes to Southwest’s Business Model
Southwest Airlines is not just adding new routes. The airline is also making several changes to its business model to support international expansion:
1. Assigned and Premium Seating
For years, Southwest has used an open seating policy, where passengers choose their seats when they board. Starting in 2026, the airline will offer assigned and premium seating, giving travelers more choices and comfort, especially on longer flights.
2. Baggage Policy Changes
Southwest has long advertised its “bags fly free” policy. However, as of May 28, 2025, the airline now charges for checked bags unless you have the highest loyalty status or buy the most expensive tickets. This change brings Southwest in line with most other airlines and helps cover the costs of international operations.
3. Red-Eye Flights
For the first time in its 57-year history, Southwest will offer overnight flights, known as red-eyes. These flights will start from Hawaii and Las Vegas and are expected to begin by 2026. Red-eye flights help airlines use their planes more efficiently and offer more travel options for passengers.
4. Schedule Extensions
Southwest has extended its flight schedule through January 26, 2026, with another extension expected in July 2025. This gives travelers more time to plan and book trips, especially for international travel.
Fleet and Route Planning: Using What They Have
One of the smartest parts of Southwest’s plan is using its existing Boeing 737 MAX planes for the new transatlantic route. This means:
- No Need for New Planes: The airline doesn’t have to spend money on new, larger aircraft.
- Operational Efficiency: Pilots, crew, and maintenance teams are already familiar with the 737 MAX, making the transition smoother.
- Flexibility: If the route is successful, Southwest can add more flights or destinations using the same type of plane.
This approach keeps costs down and allows the airline to test international routes without making huge investments.
Partnerships Beyond Iceland: Looking to Asia
In June 2025, Southwest also announced a partnership with China Airlines, its first agreement with a trans-Pacific carrier. This partnership will allow Southwest to offer more connections to Asia through west coast cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Ontario, and Seattle.
These partnerships show that Southwest is serious about becoming a global player, not just a domestic airline.
Adjusting the Domestic Network
While Southwest is expanding internationally, it is also making changes to its domestic routes:
New Domestic Routes (2025-2026):
– Nashville to Dulles (Washington, D.C.)
– Nashville to El Paso
– Los Angeles to Oklahoma City
– Omaha to San Diego
Route Cuts (November 2025):
– Baltimore to Chicago O’Hare
– Burbank to New Orleans
– Burbank to San Antonio
– Long Beach to El Paso
– Long Beach to St. Louis
The airline will also reduce its red-eye schedule from 27 to 23 daily flights between October and November 2025. These changes help Southwest focus resources on its most profitable and strategic routes.
What Does This Mean for Immigrants and International Travelers?
Southwest’s move into transatlantic travel could have several effects on people who travel for immigration, work, or family reasons:
- Easier Family Visits: Immigrants with family in Europe may find it easier and cheaper to visit home.
- More Choices for Students: International students traveling between the United States 🇺🇸 and Europe could benefit from more flight options and lower fares.
- Business Opportunities: Companies with offices or partners in Europe may find it easier to send employees back and forth.
- Simplified Travel: Booking through one airline for the entire journey can make travel less stressful, especially for people who are not used to flying internationally.
Potential Challenges and Considerations
While the new transatlantic flight and expanded routes offer many benefits, there are also some challenges to consider:
- Visa Requirements: Travelers will still need to meet all visa and entry requirements for the countries they visit. For example, U.S. citizens traveling to Iceland for tourism can stay up to 90 days without a visa, but rules may differ for other countries or longer stays. Always check the latest requirements before booking.
- Customs and Immigration: International flights mean going through customs and immigration checks. Travelers should be prepared for longer lines and possible questions about their travel plans.
- Baggage Fees: With the new baggage policy, travelers should budget for checked bag fees unless they qualify for free bags.
- Flight Connections: While codeshare agreements make booking easier, travelers should double-check layover times and baggage transfer rules, especially when connecting to other airlines.
For official information on visa requirements for Iceland, visit the Iceland Directorate of Immigration.
Industry Impact: How Southwest’s Move Could Change Air Travel
Southwest Airlines’ entry into the transatlantic market could shake up the airline industry in several ways:
- Increased Competition: Other airlines may lower prices or add new routes to compete with Southwest.
- More Choices for Travelers: As airlines compete, travelers could see more options and better deals.
- Pressure on Traditional Airlines: Southwest’s low-cost model may force bigger airlines to rethink their pricing and services.
According to VisaVerge.com, this kind of competition often leads to better service and lower prices for travelers, especially on popular routes.
What’s Next for Southwest Airlines?
Southwest’s plans for international expansion are just beginning. The airline’s request to the DOT suggests it wants to fly to many more countries in the future, not just Iceland. Other changes, like assigned seating and red-eye flights, show that Southwest is willing to adapt its business model to meet the needs of international travelers.
The agreement with its pilots, which allows the Icelandair codeshare, is another sign that Southwest is serious about these changes. If all goes as planned, travelers could see even more international routes from Southwest in the coming years.
Actionable Takeaways for Travelers and Immigrants
- Watch for New Routes: If you travel between the United States 🇺🇸 and Europe, keep an eye on Southwest’s announcements for new flights and destinations.
- Check Visa Requirements: Before booking, always check the latest visa and entry rules for your destination.
- Plan for Baggage Fees: Budget for checked bag fees unless you have elite status or buy a premium ticket.
- Use Loyalty Points: If you have Southwest Rapid Rewards points, look for opportunities to use them on new international routes.
- Book Early: As new routes open, booking early can help you get the best prices and seats.
In summary, Southwest Airlines’ move to launch its first transatlantic flight to Reykjavík marks a major change in the airline’s history and could make international travel easier and more affordable for many people. By partnering with Icelandair and seeking approval to fly to more countries, Southwest is opening new doors for travelers, immigrants, and businesses alike. As these changes roll out, staying informed and planning ahead will help you make the most of the new opportunities in global travel.
Learn Today
Transatlantic Flight → A flight crossing the Atlantic Ocean between North America and Europe or other continents.
Codeshare Agreement → An arrangement where two airlines sell seats on the same flight, expanding travel options.
Open Skies Agreement → A bilateral treaty allowing airlines freer access to international routes between two countries.
Boeing 737 MAX → A fuel-efficient, narrow-body aircraft suitable for medium-haul flights, including some transatlantic routes.
Red-Eye Flight → An overnight flight departing late and arriving early, maximizing aircraft use efficiency.
This Article in a Nutshell
Southwest Airlines is entering transatlantic travel in 2026 with flights to Reykjavík, Iceland, leveraging a codeshare with Icelandair. Changes include new policies like assigned seating and baggage fees. This shift will expand Southwest’s reach globally, offering cheaper, more convenient international travel options for immigrants, students, and families.
— By VisaVerge.com
