A slew of new nonstop routes around the world, including one to Rome, is turning SEA into a true global gateway. Why it matters: Seattle is quickly shedding its status as a secondary international hub with the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport positioning itself as a serious player in the global aviation network.

Alaska Airlines is planning to start its first flights to Europe from Seattle, which will add Rome as a destination.

Alaska Airlines will launch nonstop flights between Seattle and Rome next year, directly connecting the two cities for the first time, according to the airline.