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.

From the Emerald City to the Eternal City, Alaska Airlines announced on Tuesday that it will be launching a new direct flight from Seattle to Rome, Italy next year.