The landscape of nonstop flights from the United States to Europe is set to change significantly in 2026, with an average of 530 daily passenger flights anticipated. This figure represents a 3% increase year-over-year, according to data from Cirium Diio. The expansion includes the introduction of new routes by both US and international carriers, enhancing connectivity across the Atlantic.
Newly launched routes will play a crucial role in this growth. For instance, on May 21, 2026, American Airlines will commence its first nonstop service from Dallas/Fort Worth to Athens. This addition marks a significant milestone, as it will be the first time such a route has been available. The airline, a member of the oneworld alliance, plans to offer up to five daily flights to Athens, building on its existing services to the Greek capital.
In terms of flight durations, several routes stand out for their length. The longest nonstop flights from the US to Europe include:
– 14 hours 5 minutes: Istanbul to Los Angeles, operated by Turkish Airlines, with up to 17 weekly flights.
– 14 hours: Istanbul to San Francisco, also by Turkish Airlines, with nine to twelve weekly flights.
– 13 hours 25 minutes: Athens to Dallas/Fort Worth, by American Airlines, available daily during the season.
The significance of Istanbul Airport cannot be understated. It serves as a major hub for transatlantic travel, accounting for nearly half of the market share for flights between the US and Europe. Notably, its geographical position on the European side of the Bosphorus positions it uniquely in the air travel network.
In addition to the new American Airlines route, Turkish Airlines continues to expand its offerings. The airline plans to maintain its competitive edge by operating a maximum of 17 weekly flights to Los Angeles in 2026, mirroring its capacity from the previous year. This service, which has been in operation since its debut in March 2011, has carried close to 3.6 million passengers to date, achieving an average seat load factor of 82%.
As airlines increase their offerings, the demand for long-haul travel is being met with strategic expansions. Turkish Airlines has identified key markets for connecting passengers traveling through Istanbul. Data from the US Department of Transportation indicates that approximately 72% of passengers flying to Los Angeles are connecting to other destinations in Istanbul. The most popular connecting markets include Tehran, Cairo, and Beirut, reflecting the diverse travel needs of passengers.
Looking ahead, the airline industry is poised for a transformative year in 2026, with new routes and expanded services set to reshape transatlantic travel. As passengers seek efficient and direct options, the evolving landscape promises to enhance the travel experience between the US and Europe.
