Published on
January 9, 2026
Vatican City, one of the most significant cultural and religious destinations in the world, remains a beacon for millions of travelers each year. Since the Vatican itself lacks an airport, pilgrims, tourists, and business travelers typically fly into Rome Fiumicino (FCO) or Rome Ciampino (CIA) airports. These hubs serve as the primary access points to Vatican City. For 2026, several exciting new international flight routes are being launched to enhance global connectivity to Rome, ultimately improving access to the Vatican City.
Alaska Airlines: Seattle to Rome (FCO) – A New Transatlantic Route
One of the standout developments in 2026 is the introduction of Alaska Airlines’ new route from Seattle (SEA) to Rome Fiumicino (FCO). Starting on April 28, 2026, this non-stop, daily service will connect the Pacific Northwest with Italy. The route, operated on a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, marks the airline’s first non-stop transatlantic flight to Rome. Travelers from Seattle and surrounding areas will now have direct access to the Vatican City and other key destinations in Italy, significantly boosting air travel between the United States and Italy.
Air India Resumes Non-stop Flights from Delhi to Rome
After a multi-year hiatus, Air India will resume its direct flights between Delhi (DEL) and Rome Fiumicino (FCO) starting March 25, 2026. The four weekly services will operate on a Boeing 787-8, offering a modern and comfortable travel experience for passengers. This resumption of flights strengthens the connectivity between India and Italy, facilitating easier access for Indian pilgrims and tourists heading to Vatican City.
ITA Airways Introduces a Non-stop Flight from Houston to Rome
In an exciting move to enhance connectivity between the United States and Italy, ITA Airways will launch a new non-stop flight route from Houston (IAH) to Rome Fiumicino (FCO). This service, set to begin on May 1, 2026, will initially operate three times a week, with plans to increase to five times weekly. The non-stop flight will offer a direct and convenient way for travelers from the Houston area to access Rome, and consequently, Vatican City. This new route will cater to the growing demand for international travel between Texas and Italy.
EasyJet Expands Presence at Rome-Fiumicino Airport
In addition to long-haul flights, European travelers will benefit from easyJet’s expanded presence at Rome Fiumicino. The airline will introduce several new seasonal routes connecting Rome to major cities like Frankfurt, Hamburg, Munich, Zurich, and Brussels. These routes will offer affordable travel options for those visiting Vatican City and other parts of Italy. EasyJet’s European connections from Rome provide an essential link for both tourists and business travelers heading to Vatican City.
New Air Routes Bring More Connectivity to Vatican City
These new routes are part of a broader strategy to improve global access to Vatican City through Rome’s airports. Whether you’re flying from North America, Asia, or Europe, these expanded flight options will make your journey to the heart of Italy more convenient. The influx of international services will directly benefit those traveling to Vatican City, where St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and Vatican Museums await.
By providing more flight choices, the Vatican continues to attract millions of travelers each year. The city-state’s rich religious history, beautiful architecture, and significance as the center of the Catholic Church remain key reasons for its popularity among international visitors. With new routes making it easier than ever to get to Rome, the Vatican’s tourism is expected to rise even further in 2026 and beyond.
Why Rome Fiumicino and Ciampino are Key for Vatican Visitors
Though Vatican City does not have its own airport, both Rome Fiumicino and Ciampino airports serve as vital entry points for travelers heading to the Vatican. With direct flights from major hubs like Delhi, Seattle, Houston, and European cities, these airports provide seamless access to Vatican City via ground transportation. The increased number of international flights will undoubtedly make it easier for tourists to enjoy all that Vatican City has to offer, from its religious landmarks to its art treasures.
