Alaska Airlines just announced a new seasonal route from Seattle to Reykjavik starting May 2026 but here's the twist: it’ll be flown with a 737 MAX 8. At 3,622 miles, this will be the longest nonstop 737 route flown by any US airline. No lie-flat seats, no seatback screens, and a tight cabin for nearly 8 hour oof. On the plus side, streaming IFE and satellite Wi-Fi will be available, and the price point might be a win for budget-minded travelers.
I get the strategy, especially with Icelandair already flying narrowbodies on this route. But part of me wonders if this will turn into a long-haul pain for comfort seekers.
Would you book a flight this long on a MAX 8, or wait to see if they upgrade the cabin experience before spring 2026?

