Alaska Air Group announces webcast of first quarter 2026 financial results

March 31, 2026
Other News
Alaska Airlines
9 min read

Summary

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Alaska Air Group Inc. will hold its quarterly conference call to discuss 2026 first quarter financial results at 11:30 a.m. EDT/ 8:30 a.m. PDT, Tuesday, April 21, 2026.

Alaska Air Group Inc., the parent company of Alaska Airlines Inc., Hawaiian Airlines, Inc. and Horizon Air Industries Inc., will hold its quarterly conference call to discuss 2026 first quarter financial results at 11:30 a.m. EDT/ 8:30 a.m. PDT, Tuesday, April 21, 2026. A webcast of the call will be available to the public at www.alaskaair.com/investors. An archive of the call will be posted on the website later that morning.

The company will file its first quarter results and outlook after market close on Monday, April 20, 2026.

Visit alaskaair.com

About Alaska Air Group

Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and Horizon Air are subsidiaries of Alaska Air Group, and McGee Air Services is a subsidiary of Alaska Airlines. We are a global airline with hubs in Seattle, Honolulu, Portland, Anchorage, Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco. We deliver remarkable care as we fly our guests to more than 140 destinations throughout North America, Latin America, Asia and the Pacific. We’ll serve Europe beginning in spring 2026. Guests can book travel at alaskaair.com and hawaiianairlines.com. Alaska is a member of the oneworld alliance, with Hawaiian scheduled to join oneworld in spring 2026. With oneworld and our additional global partners, guests can earn and redeem points for travel to over 1,000 worldwide destinations with Atmos Rewards. Learn more about what’s happening at Alaska and Hawaiian at news.alaskaair.com. Alaska Air Group is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) as “ALK.”

Alaska Airlines unveils its first-ever International Business Class Suites experience, setting a new standard for long-haul travel

March 31, 2026
Guest Experience
Alaska Airlines
27 min read

Dreamliner International Business Class header

Summary

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Featuring private lie‑flat suites, elevated dining and premium lounge access, the product is designed for comfort as Alaska expands nonstop service to Europe and Asia.



Debuting this spring, the airline’s new long-haul Business Class marks a major step in Alaska’s transformation into the West Coast’s global carrier.



Marking its five-year anniversary as a member of the oneworld^® alliance, Alaska highlights its expanded global reach, now connecting guests to more than 900 worldwide destinations.

Alaska Airlines today announced the debut of its all-new International Business Class, a premium long-haul experience launching this spring as the airline expands to Europe and Asia. The unveiling marks a significant milestone in Alaska’s transformation into the West Coast’s global carrier and Seattle’s new leader in international travel — one that now connects guests to over 900 worldwide destinations through the oneworld^® alliance.

Alaska Airlines Boeing 787-9 International Business Class menu

A refined International Business Class built for global travel

Designed for long-haul travelers while delivering Alaska’s signature West Coast warmth and hospitality, the airline’s new International Business Class on brand-new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners offers:

Fully lie-flat suites with privacy doors, direct aisle access and spacious lounge-style seating that converts into a true flat bed.
Modern cabin design featuring 18” HD entertainment screens, over 1500 movies and TV shows, noise-reducing headsets, personal power outlets and wireless charging.
Elevated restaurant-quality dining delivers a multi-course culinary journey before guests even reach their destination. Each menu celebrates the flavors of the West Coast and the global destinations Alaska serves.

- - The experience begins with a sophisticated welcome service featuring a cheese and charcuterie board — a refined interpretation of Alaska’s iconic Signature Fruit & Cheese Platter — paired with an expanded selection of wines from the West Coast and regions in Europe such as Stag’s Leap, including Roederer Champagne, handcrafted cocktails, West Coast craft beer, mineral water and freshly brewed Stumptown coffee.
  - The meal continues with an appetizer course followed by a personalized main dining experience with up to six entrée choices tailored to each route. Options may include roasted chicken with pasta carbonara on flights to Rome and Gochujang chicken with traditional banchan en route to Incheon. Guests may also select Alaska’s Chef’s (Tray) Table entrée, developed in partnership with award-winning Seattle chef Brady Ishiwata Williams, featuring his signature short rib sourced from Klingemann Farms. Meals can be conveniently selected in advance through Alaska’s industry-leading pre-order feature in the airline’s app.
  - Following the entrée service, guests are invited to enjoy Alaska’s new dessert cart, showcasing a customizable Salt & Straw sundae service alongside other artisanal desserts.
  - Prior to arrival, guests will be treated to a refreshing pre-arrival beverage, paired with a destination-inspired meal, such as a classic full English breakfast on flights to London.

Premium bedding and travel amenity kits will include luxury bedding designed in collaboration with Pacific Northwest icon Filson. International Business Class amenities include a plush mattress pad, soft sleeping pillow, lumbar/lounging pillow and oversized duvet — plus a collectible travel amenity bag in two West Coast-inspired Filson colors, created exclusively for Alaska Airlines. Each kit includes premium Salt & Stone skincare products and other travel essentials. Guests will also receive a custom reusable water bottle developed in partnership with PATH Water.
Premium Lounge access across Alaska’s network of lounges, featuring welcoming spaces designed for comfort, seasonal dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, a premium bar program and a full barista bar. International Business Class guests also enjoy access to oneworld partner lounges worldwide. Plus, oneworld Emerald members receive entry to First Class lounges – regardless of class of travel – a level of benefits only the oneworld alliance extends to its top-tier members.
Coming soon: Starlink, the fastest Wi Fi in the sky, is scheduled to be installed on Alaska’s 787-9 Dreamliners this fall. Starlink is already available on select aircraft across Alaska’s fleet, delivering gate-to-gate connectivity. Starting in May, guests flying on any Starlink-enabled Alaska aircraft will need to sign in using their Atmos™ Rewards number to enjoy the full experience. Signing up is fast and easy. And thanks to Alaska’s partnership with T-Mobile, guests will enjoy Starlink completely free.

Alaska Airlines Boeing 787-9 International Business Class seat

We set out to design a Business Class experience that is both sophisticated and authentically Alaska: premium, comfortable and thoughtfully created for our guests. When we debut our new product this spring, it will raise the bar and redefine long-haul travel, while continuing to deliver the remarkable care that sets Alaska apart on the global stage.”

Andrew Harrison

Executive vice president & chief commercial officer, Alaska Airlines

No matter where guests sit, Alaska designs every cabin experience with comfort and care. Guests across both International Premium Class and Main Cabin will enjoy complimentary meals and a plush Filson blanket and pillow to rest and relax throughout the journey. Alaska’s International Premium Class offers four extra inches of legroom, power outlets, 12-inch HD screens, complimentary alcoholic beverages, plus a thoughtfully curated amenity kit by Filson.

The new product and experience coincide with the expansion of Alaska’s international network to Europe, beginning with nonstop service from Seattle to Rome, and will also be offered on flights from Seattle to Seoul starting in April and Tokyo this fall. Clocking in at just over 7 hours of flight time, service to Reykjavík’s Keflavík International Airport will be operated on a 737 MAX 8 and feature its own upgraded premium experience designed to bring comfort and care to the unique needs of that route.

Alaska’s new service from Seattle to Rome begins April 28, followed by London on May 21 and Reykjavík, Iceland on May 28. Tickets are available now at alaskaair.com.

Alaska Airlines Boeing 787-9 International Business Class amenity kit

Alaska Airlines Boeing 787-9 International Business Class headphones

Download images from our press kit

From Seattle to the world: Alaska Airlines celebrates five years of global connectivity

The debut of Alaska’s long-haul Business Class comes as the airline celebrates five years as a member of the oneworld alliance, a milestone that has expanded its global reach and unlocked a new era of international growth.

Since joining oneworld on March 31, 2021, Alaska and its partners now offer seamless connections to more than 900 destinations worldwide, enabling travel on a single ticket. From London Heathrow Airport, guests can continue easily with oneworld partners to destinations such as Amsterdam, Athens, Barcelona, Paris and Venice – with bags checked through to their final destination.  

Atmos Rewards or oneworld elite status is also recognized across all oneworld partner airlines, offering priority services, extra baggage perks and access to premium lounges across the world.

Five years ago today we joined the oneworld alliance – a network of the world’s leading airlines – giving our guests more ways to explore the globe while earning and redeeming points toward their next journey and enjoying their Atmos status benefits along the way. Together with our alliance partners, we’ll soon connect guests to world-class destinations across Europe and beyond.”

Alex Judson

Managing director of partnerships & international , Alaska Airlines

Download images from our press kit

Visit alaskaair.com

About Alaska Air Group

Alaska Airlines names Lindsay-Rae McIntyre Chief People Officer

March 30, 2026
Company
Alaska Airlines
18 min read

Summary

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The Microsoft and IBM veteran brings decades of experience building strong teams, growing talent and scaling innovative enterprise solutions for global organizations.

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McIntyre will steward the growing global airline’s people strategy, ensuring alignment with the organization’s business objectives, cultural aspirations and operational excellence.

Alaska Airlines today announced the election of Lindsay-Rae McIntyre to chief people officer. In this role, McIntyre will oversee talent strategy, total rewards, employee experience, employee relations, leadership development, culture, and HR operations – helping to deliver on Alaska’s vision to connect people to the world through a remarkable travel experience rooted in safety, care and performance.

Lindsay-Rae is an accomplished people leader with deep experience strengthening culture, leading complex global organizations and building talent development strategies that help teams thrive. She understands what it takes to support frontline employees and leaders alike, and we’re excited to welcome her to Alaska as we grow our global footprint and continue our integration with Hawaiian Airlines.”

Ben Minicucci

CEO, Alaska Airlines

McIntyre brings 28+ years of human resources and organizational leadership experience, most recently serving as Chief Diversity Officer and Corporate Vice President of Talent and Learning for Microsoft. She previously spent more than 20 years at IBM where she led global HR teams and lived in the U.S., Asia and the Middle East. She brings deep experience in talent acquisition, leadership development and workforce strategy, with a focus on enabling frontline teams and strengthening culture at scale.

I’m honored to join Alaska Airlines and the more than 30,000 people at Alaska and Hawaiian who deliver for guests every day. I look forward to partnering with leaders and employees across the company to support an engaged workforce and a strong, values-driven culture.”

Lindsay-Rae McIntyre

McIntyre succeeds Andy Schneider, who became the chief executive officer of Horizon Air, Alaska’s regional affiliate, in September 2025. McIntyre, who will report directly to CEO Ben Minicucci and serve on the company’s Executive Committee, will begin April 1 and will be based in Seattle.

Visit alaskair.com

Visit hawaiianairlines.com

About Alaska Air Group

Bringing the travel journey together: One app for Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines

March 30, 2026
Guest Experience
Alaska Airlines
38 min read

Summary

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The single, unified Alaska Hawaiian mobile app offers guests a faster, more intuitive and modern travel experience in one place.

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Guests can personalize their experience, choosing an Alaska Airlines or Hawaiian Airlines look and feel while enjoying improved performance and expanded features.

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Guests accustomed to the Hawaiian Airlines app will enjoy long-desired features beginning April 22, including the ability to change or cancel flights via the app and share boarding passes.

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This milestone supports the combined carrier’s broader integration efforts, including the transition to a shared passenger service system on April 22.

Beginning today, guests will start to see something new when they open the Alaska Airlines app or browse the app store: a single, unified Alaska Hawaiian mobile app.

Built to support travel across both airlines, the new app brings everything guests need into one streamlined experience — from booking and check–in to day‑of travel updates — with improved performance and expanded features, particularly for legacy Hawaiian Airlines app users. This app redesign also represents an important step in bringing the two airlines closer together, while preserving the distinct identities and experiences guests know and love.

A simpler way for guests to manage their trips

The new Alaska Hawaiian app is designed around one goal: making travel easier. Instead of switching between apps or navigating different experiences, guests will be able to manage their entire journey in one place — whether flying Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines or connecting across both.

As part of the transition to one mobile platform, the current Alaska Airlines app will update automatically for most guests starting today, while the legacy Hawaiian Airlines app will remain available through April 21. Guests booked on a Hawaiian Airlines flight through April 21 should continue to use the Hawaiian mobile app for check-in and day-of-travel updates.

A customizable app to match the iconic look of Alaska or Hawaiian

While the platform is unified, the experience is still personal. Guests can choose between an Alaska Airlines or Hawaiian Airlines-themed experience, aligning the look and feel with the airline they fly most.

What is new — and what stays the same

What is changing:

One redesigned mobile app supports both Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines

Modern, refreshed interface with faster load times and improved reliability

Beginning April 22, new features for Hawaiian Airlines app users:

- Change or cancel flights directly in the app

- Apple Pay integration

- Share boarding passes

- Book flights with over 30 airline partners, including oneworld alliance members, using cash or points

What stays the same:

Manage any existing travel as before
Atmos Rewards benefits, login and password remain unchanged
The familiar core experience guests trust, now unified in one app
Guests can still visit alaskaair.com and hawaiianairlines.com for the latest updates

Guests get a single, seamless app experience — while still seeing the airline they know and trust — making it easier to book, manage and travel with confidence.”

Natalie Bowman

Vice president of digital experience, Alaska Airlines

Progress toward a smoother end-to-end journey

The unified app is a key milestone in Alaska and Hawaiian’s ongoing investments to deliver a seamless guest experience across its combined global network. Today, guests benefit from shared lobby spaces, reduced lobby lines with modern bag-tag stations and a best-in-class loyalty program.

By bringing both airlines into one app and the same passenger service system on April 22, guests will enjoy simplified trip management and self-service features across Alaska and Hawaiian, and consistent performance improvements to the carrier’s technology.

Important reminders

With Hawaiian’s transition to self-service bag tag stations in its lobbies, guests’ phones become their boarding pass. Check in online or via the mobile app up to 24-hours prior to departure and download your boarding pass. Arrive at the airport with your boarding pass in hand, which enables self-service baggage tagging, saving time at the airport, the need to see an agent, and reducing paper waste. Guests needing additional assistance checking in should see a customer service agent at the airport.

Atmos Rewards logins and passwords do not change. Users without an Atmos Rewards account can continue to use the app as a guest to:

- track and check in for flights,

- add and pay for bags, and

- fly with a mobile boarding pass

To enjoy TSA PreCheck^® expedited screening, guests should save their Known Traveler Number (KTN) to their Atmos Rewards profile. If it is not already added, they can log into their Atmos Rewards account via the web and add it to their profile.

Dates to know

March 30: The Alaska app updates to the new unified Alaska Hawaiian app. Guests traveling on Hawaiian Airlines through April 21 should continue to use the legacy Hawaiian Airlines mobile app for check-in and day-of travel updates.

April 21: Last day to use the legacy Hawaiian Airlines app. For travelers who have not already done so, please download the Alaska Hawaiian app.

April 22: All guests begin using the new Alaska Hawaiian app for all travel needs with both airlines.

The new Alaska Hawaiian app icon

Questions and answers

What is the new combined Alaska Hawaiian mobile app?

The new Alaska Hawaiian mobile app is a single unified platform designed to make travel easier for guests flying with either airline. Beginning April 22, guests can book and manage travel across both airlines in one place and enjoy a redesigned app offering a faster, more intuitive experience and a new theme switcher that allows guests to choose between an Alaska Airlines or Hawaiian Airlines-themed experience.

Why are Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines launching a single app now?

The unified app is part of the broader effort to bring the two airlines onto shared technology systems. Moving to a single mobile platform creates a more seamless digital experience for travelers and allows guests to easily book and manage travel across both airlines in one location.

When will the new app be available?

The rollout begins on March 30 when the existing Alaska Airlines app updates to the new Alaska Hawaiian mobile app. The legacy Hawaiian Airlines app will remain available until April 21. Starting April 22, all guests will use the new unified app for travel with both airlines.

Will the existing Hawaiian Airlines app be sunsetted?

Yes. The Hawaiian Airlines app will remain available through April 21, 2026, and guests traveling on Hawaiian Airlines from March 30 through April 21 should continue to use the HA mobile app for check-in and day-of travel updates. Beginning April 22, all guests should use the new combined Alaska Hawaiian app for all their travel needs across both airlines.

What new features will travelers be able to access in the new combined app?

All guests will now enjoy a single, redesigned mobile app that supports both Alaska and Hawaiian travel, featuring a refreshed, modern interface with faster load times, improved reliability, and overall stronger performance. Legacy Hawaiian Airlines guests will see the biggest upgrades, gaining new features such as the ability to change or cancel flights directly in the app, use Apple Pay, share boarding passes, and book partner flights using cash or points.

What changes specifically for Alaska Airlines travelers with this new app?

In addition to a refreshed design, Alaska Airlines guests will gain the ability to book and manage Hawaiian Airlines travel within the same app.

What changes specifically for Hawaiian Airlines travelers with the new app?

Hawaiian Airlines guests will see the biggest set of enhancements. In addition to a refreshed design, they’ll gain new features such as the ability to change or cancel flights in the app, use Apple Pay for purchases, share boarding passes with companions and manage both Hawaiian and Alaska flights in one place.

Will Hawaiian Airlines customers need to download a new app, or will it automatically transition?

Hawaiian Airlines guests will need to download the new Alaska Hawaiian app from the app store. Guests traveling on Hawaiian Airlines from March 30 through April 21 should continue to use the HA mobile app for check-in and day-of travel updates. Beginning April 22, all guests should use the new combined Alaska Hawaiian app for all their travel needs across both airlines.

Will Alaska Airlines customers need to download a new app, or will it automatically transition?

Most Alaska Airlines guests will see their existing Alaska Airlines app automatically update to the new Alaska Hawaiian app on March 30 if they have automatic updates enabled. Guests can also manually update the app through the app store.

Which app should be used for travel?

Guests traveling on Hawaiian Airlines from March 30 through April 21 should continue to use the HA mobile app for check-in and day-of travel updates. Beginning April 22, all guests should use the new combined Alaska Hawaiian app for all their travel needs across both airlines.

What does the “dual-brand” app experience actually mean for users?

The new app supports both Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines brands within a single platform. With the new theme switcher, guests can choose between an Alaska Airlines or Hawaiian Airlines–themed experience, aligning the look and feel with the airline they fly most.

Visit alaskaair.com

Visit hawaiianairlines.com

From touchdown to tip-off, how Alaska Airlines and March Madness Alaska unite 49th state communities

March 26, 2026
Community Destinations
Alaska Airlines
24 min read

March Madness Alaska at the Alaska Airlines Center in Anchorage

Few events bring Alaska residents together quite like two basketball teams going toe-to-toe on a hometown court. All month, the sport dominated conversations as more than 80 youth teams — and their biggest fans — faced off in more than 110 games for the chance to be crowned champions of March Madness Alaska, the state’s largest high school basketball tournament.

Connecting Alaska’s communities

The bracket-style tournament emphasizes Alaska’s unique geography, where over 80% of communities are not accessible by road, yet youth basketball players from across the state — from remote Bethel to the capital city, Juneau — travel to compete.

Alaska Airlines’ intrastate network plays a critical role during March Madness Alaska season, connecting more than 19 communities and transporting players, families and fans to game-hosting hubs like Kotzebue for regionals and Anchorage for the state finals, often just in time for tip-off. For many families, that connectivity makes it possible to show up and support their hometown teams.

“We are fortunate to have the direct Nome-Anchorage service to get our family and friends to and from the tournament games in Anchorage,” said Larry Pederson, a Nome resident and member of the carrier’s community advisory board for the state of Alaska. A proud basketball parent, Larry traveled to Anchorage last week to cheer on his son’s team.

“Alaska Airlines’ service is vital; it not only carries critical cargo to and from our communities, but it also helps residents get to essential medical appointments, family gatherings and community or school events,” he said. “For me, I am happy there’s a short, direct flight that allows me to go support my son, Levi, who is playing for the Nome Nanooks.”

Game time at Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines is a longtime sponsor of the Alaska School Activities Association (ASAA) and offers discounted airfare to athletic programs statewide. The airline also supports members of Club 49, the free travel benefits program within Atmos™ Rewards for 49th state residents, by providing special deals for their March Madness Alaska travels.

Throughout the tournament period, employees kick into high gear to care for thousands of residents traveling over the two weeks — and many do so with personal pride as parents, relatives or longtime supporters of the players.

“It’s a busy time of year when it feels like every Alaska resident is flying on us to get to a game,” said Crystal Andersen-Booth, director of station operations in Anchorage and parent of a participating player. To her, tournament time is also a chance to celebrate the state’s youth and extend care to the guests cheering them on. From tagging team gear for special handling and ensuring Club 49 benefits are applied, to cheering players on with streamers, balloons and banners at the gate, employees work across the operation to make teams and residents feel welcomed with pride.

“March Madness Alaska is one of those great moments where we get to support students from all over the state and show them how proud their community is of them,” Crystal said. “When you’re proud of yourself and where you come from, you play differently. We want these kids to know that win or lose, they’re 100% winners to us.”

In the lead-up to tournament season, Crystal balanced work with traveling alongside her son’s basketball team, collaborating with coaches and fellow parents to support the players on and off the court.

“I recently flew with my son’s team to Kotzebue for a game, and before the flight, all of us parents were divvying up supplies across our free checked bags,” Crystal said. “We had a group text to coordinate everything: Who was packing the protein powder? Who had the snacks? Who was checking the sports drinks? We also made sure every player was signed up for Club 49 so they could take full advantage of the benefits when traveling during the season,” she said.

Nome basketball team in front of Alaska Airlines aircraft tail

Cheering in the stands and carrying the locals home

As the state’s top talent convened at the Alaska Airlines Center at the University of Alaska Anchorage for the state championships, held over March 11–14 and March 18–21, Alaska Airlines was among those roaring in the crowds. Employees cheered on their hometown teams, helped fans decorate signs at free community cheer booths, put on halftime competitions and more.

“To me, the most exciting aspect of March Madness Alaska is getting to be in Anchorage, at the Alaska Airlines Center, cheering on our Nome Nanooks in their bid for the championship,” Larry said. “The tournament brings friends and family together from near and far, allowing us to rekindle old friendships and create new ones at same time – all while cheering on our favorite teams and players.”

After the final horn sounded and March Madness Alaska 2026 came to a close, traveling fans made their way back through Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, some celebrating a championship run, others reflecting on a well-played season, all connected by the experience. Regardless of the game-day outcome, they could count on Alaska Airlines to carry them home with new shared memories, pride in supporting their communities and the enduring spirit of the 49th state.

Visit alaskaair.com

Alaska Airlines highlights new Boeing 787 Dreamliner Suites with hometown spirit in new Cal Raleigh commercial

March 24, 2026
Community
Alaska Airlines
25 min read

Photo looking Through the viewfinder of a camera at Cal Raleigh walking past an Alaska Airlines sign at T-Mobile Park

Summary

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Alaska Airlines is Seattle’s global carrier: the carrier’s evolution is underpinned by a long history serving the Emerald City and the Pacific Northwest.

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In its newest advertisement in Seattle, Alaska highlights its new suite on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner with a fun nod to hometown pride in partnership with Cal Raleigh and the Seattle Mariners.

Over the past two years, Alaska Airlines has accelerated its position as Seattle’s global carrier. With 5 new international destinations already added, up to a dozen global destinations to come by 2030 and continued investments in an elevated curb-to-cabin experience, it is a transformational time for the airline.

Alaska’s evolution is underpinned by its long history serving its hometown of Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. In its newest advertisement in Seattle, Alaska leans into that history and highlights its new Suite on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner with a fun nod to its hometown pride.

Telling a story of growth

When looking to showcase Alaska’s global travel experience and our Seattle roots, Cal Raleigh and the Seattle Mariners immediately came to mind as partners.

Just as it has been a revolutionary two years for Alaska, it has also been a transformational period for Cal and the Mariners. Since the start of the 2024 season, Cal has broken record after record as a catcher. He hit the most home runs by a catcher and by a Mariner, became the first catcher to win the MLB Home Run Derby, and led the Mariners to claim their first AL West title in 24 years, among other accolades.

I’ve loved partnering with Alaska Airlines, and this was a fun campaign. Getting to sit in the new lie-flat suites for the commercial was a pretty great preview — I’m definitely looking forward to trying the real ones on my next trip overseas.”

Cal Raleigh

Seattle Mariners

We have been working with the Seattle Mariners for over 25 years. When we sat down to highlight where we’ve come from and how we’ve evolved our guest experience, there were no better partners than Cal and our hometown baseball team to help us bring this to life.”

Mike Thompson

Partnership Marketing, Alaska Airlines

The pitch

As work started with Cal’s team to create the ad, the idea was to ground Alaska’s global product in its Seattle roots. That came to life by bringing seats from the new 787 Dreamliner into T‑Mobile Park — a cornerstone of Seattle’s identity and the home of a team that’s going places.

“Having worked with Alaska for many years, what excited me about the concept was the chance to connect Alaska’s growth into a global airline with the hometown spirit that still defines the brand,” said Daniel Mogg, owner of Mogg Media, who was the director for the ad. “A Seattle icon that’s become a global star, Cal was the perfect fit to embody Alaska Airlines’ growth. Being able to bring a real lie-flat suite into T-Mobile Park, along with authentic Mariners elements like the head groundskeeper and the Mariner Moose, gave us a fun visual way to tell that story in a way that felt both premium and distinctly Seattle.”

Images from the preliminary storyboard for the commercial

From tarmac to T-Mobile Park

The challenge of bringing two 787 Dreamliner suites into a baseball stadium included:

The only seats available were being stored at our Honolulu hub
Each seat weighed around 3000 pounds
They weren’t allowed to touch the grass

Solving the first two challenges was a feat of logistics. Employees across the company pitched in, teaming up with members of cabin products, line maintenance, maintenance and engineering, cargo, and supply chain. Hawaiian Airlines’ maintenance team in Honolulu led the charge, disassembling the seats and escorting them to Seattle on a cargo flight.

The final hurdle was to get the seats onto the field without damaging the grass. This required some outside assistance, so Kevin Dvorak, director of grounds for the Mariners, stepped in to make it happen.

Dvorak has held his role with the Mariners since 2023. Before becoming director, he played first baseman at Oklahoma City University, worked in the golf industry and supported ballparks across the country, including a 3-year stint as a member of the Mariners’ seasonal day crew.

When we went to Kevin with our challenge, he was immediately on board to help. He explained exactly what would need to happen to get the seats onto the field. More than that – his enthusiasm for the project was infectious, and we decided to capture that by including him in the ad.

After a reassembly from our engineers, careful directions from Kevin and one oversized forklift, the seats were ready for show time.

It’s not every day you’re hoisting parts of an airplane onto a Major League field. But we always expect the unexpected at T-Mobile Park, and we had a lot of fun with this one. Our whole crew had a great time working with Cal and Alaska Airlines to bring it to life, and it was certainly a memorable way to make my official acting debut.”

Kevin Dvorak

Director of grounds, Seattle Mariners

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About Alaska Air Group

More seats and routes as Alaska and Hawaiian scale up for largest spring break operation ever

March 16, 2026
Company Destinations
Alaska Airlines
24 min read

Summary



Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines are operating more than 12 million seats across March and April, marking the largest spring break schedule in their history.

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The combined carrier’s guests can choose from more than 25 new or recently launched routes this spring season, from sun-soaked coastal destinations to lively metropolises.

Spring break is shaping up to be the busiest ever for Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines as the combined carrier’s global and domestic network continues to expand with more seats, destinations and opportunities for adventure and remarkable travel experiences.

Added routes and seats expand spring break options

This March and April, Alaska and Hawaiian’s guests can choose from more than 25 new or recently launched routes, enjoying ample options for getaways of all kinds – from surfing in sun-soaked coastal destinations to cultural experiences in lively metropolises. New and expanded markets this spring season include:

Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines are operating more than 12 million seats across March and April, marking the largest spring break schedule in their history.

The combined carrier is also expanding its San Diego service for spring break with more than 30% more flights and 10 new nonstop routes. It will also operate 31 additional flights between Hawaiʻi and the continental U.S. from March 14 to 22, a 6% increase over last year.

Capacity increases are especially notable in several West Coast markets. Travelers from Boise, Idaho, will have access to double the number of seats to Southern California this spring, including tripled service to Palm Springs. In Santa Rosa, Calif., guests can now fly nonstop to two new intrastate destinations — Ontario and Palm Springs — along with added frequencies to Portland, Ore., San Diego and Burbank, Calif.

Other in-demand spring break destinations have never been easier to access, thanks to improved and expanded connectivity, including:

Late-season ski getaways to Denver, Colo., Salt Lake City, Utah, or Sun Valley, Idaho.
Sunny desert escapes to Phoenix, Ariz. and Palm Springs, Calif.
Beloved beach destinations like Līhuʻe, Kauaʻi and Kona, Hawaiʻi Island

Guest-favorite destinations and notable operations

As spring break ramps up, Alaska and Hawaiian are seeing strong demand across Hawaiʻi, the U.S. continent and key international markets.

Top domestic spring break destinations include Honolulu, Oʻahu; Līhuʻe, Kauaʻi; Kahului, Maui; Kona, Hawaiʻi Island; and Miami, Fla.
Top international spring break destinations include San José and Liberia, Costa Rica, along with Belize City, Belize.
More than 200,000 guests are expected to connect onward to flights operated by the airlines’ global partners during the spring break period.

Several markets are also setting new highs this spring:

Phoenix, Ariz.: Driven by warm weather and Spring Training baseball, Alaska and Hawaiian’s combined operation is flying the most seats to and from PHX in its history this March.
Las Vegas, Nevada: The strongest-served destination this spring outside Hawaiʻi, with the airlines operating their largest-ever spring schedule to LAS by total seats.
Denver, Colo.: A gateway for both skiing and spring hiking, DEN is also seeing the largest spring schedule Alaska and Hawaiian have ever flown.

Spring break pre-trip and day-of travel tips

Download the Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines mobile apps to check in for your flight, pre-pay for checked baggage, get real-time flight updates and more.

Leverage Atmos™ Rewards benefits while booking your trip and at the airport to make the most of your experience with Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines. Are you a Huakaʻi by Hawaiian or Club 49 member? Don’t forget about your quarterly discounts (which can be applied to up to six companions) and exclusive baggage perks. Atmos™ Rewards Visa^® cardholders also enjoy a free checked bag and preferred boarding for you and up to six guests on the same reservation when you pay with your card.

Prepare your baggage. Ensure luggage and carry-ons meet Alaska and Hawaiian’s requirements. Pre-paying for checked baggage via web or mobile app is always recommended.

Arrive at the airport early and stay flexible. Guests should arrive at least two hours before their flight (at least three hours for international flights). Have a sudden change of plans? Guests enjoy flexible travel options, including no change fees and easy rebooking options.

(Editor’s note: Travelers may experience longer-than-normal security lines at airports across the United States. Conditions can change quickly due to passenger volumes and staffing levels. Please check your departure airport’s website to see whether TSA wait times are available.)

Traveling with kids or pets? Alaska and Hawaiian offer complimentary gate checks for strollers and car seats, ensuring that they are out of your way on board, but ready and waiting when you arrive. Alaska and Hawaiian also provide resources for unaccompanied minors and guarantee that young children will be seated with their families, without any additional fees. Traveling with a furry friend? Be sure to review the carriers’ pet travel policies in advance of travel for information on breed restrictions, kennel requirements, health certificates and pet relief areas at airports.

Visit alaskaair.com

Visit hawaiianairlines.com

University of Washington and Alaska Airlines extend landmark partnership, renew naming rights for Alaska Airlines Arena

March 13, 2026
Community
Alaska Airlines
21 min read

Photo of Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmonston Pavilion

Summary



The University of Washington and Alaska Airlines announced a renewed 10-year partnership that will continue Alaska’s naming rights to Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion and expand a shared commitment to student-athlete success and community engagement.



In addition to maintaining its status as Official Airline of the university, Alaska will continue to support fan-favorite events and community initiatives, such as Dawg Dash, OMA&D Gala, as well as alumni programs like Fly Away warmups at away games.

The University of Washington and Alaska Airlines announced today a renewed 10-year partnership that will continue Alaska’s naming rights to Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion and expand a shared commitment to student-athlete success and community engagement.

The partnership reflects the longstanding relationship between the university and Seattle’s hometown airline. Under the new agreement, Alaska Airlines will continue as the naming rights partner of Alaska Airlines Arena for the next decade while maintaining its role as the Official Airline for the University of Washington.

The University of Washington is proud to deepen our partnership with Alaska Airlines in ways that directly support students, serve our shared community, and help ensure our student-athletes have what they need to succeed in their competitions, classes and lives. This collaboration creates meaningful opportunities for students, from scholarships and programs to beloved annual events, while also enriching Seattle and demonstrating the power of university-industry partnerships. We look forward to continuing this work together to support students and our city.”

Robert J. Jones

President, University of Washington

As part of the agreement, up to half of Alaska Airlines’ annual investment will support scholarships and community initiatives benefiting UW student-athletes, including signature events that bring together alumni, fans and supporters.

Alaska Airlines and the University of Washington have built a partnership that, for decades, has strengthened our community and expanded opportunities for students, alumni, and the broader Pacific Northwest. Alaska Airlines Arena is a storied venue that has connected generations through unforgettable moments. We are proud to continue this relationship and look forward to the next chapter of impact and growth together.”

Pat Chun

Athletics director, University of Washington

Harry the Husky visits Alaska Airlines at SeaTac International Airport.

Seattle is our home, and the University of Washington is one of the great institutions that make this community special. Our role as the university’s official airline enables us to support students and student-athletes while celebrating the energy and community that make college athletics so meaningful.”

Eric Edge

Vice president of brand and marketing, Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines Arena hosts a wide range of athletic and campus events each year, including men’s and women’s basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, commencement ceremonies, and community gatherings, making it one of the most active venues on campus. Alaska will continue to maintain a presence within all UW sports, including football at Husky Stadium.

The airline will also continue to support fan-favorite events and community initiatives, such as Dawg Dash and OMA&D Gala, rewarding programs such as Atmos Rewards’ fast track to elite status for University of Washington students, and alumni programs like Fly Away warmups at away games. Alaska will maintain its sponsorships of CoMotion and the UW Foster School of Business, guests can continue to enjoy flying on Alaska’s University of Washington themed aircraft, and members of the UW community can look forward to special events celebrating Seattle’s role as the airline’s global hub.

The renewed agreement reflects the strong alignment between the University of Washington and Alaska Airlines — two institutions rooted in Seattle with global reach and a shared commitment to supporting students, innovation and community.

Visit alaskaair.com

About Alaska Air Group

About Washington Athletics

Washington athletic teams have claimed 57 team national championships across 12 different sports, beginning with its first titles in 1923 in men’s rowing and women’s rifle, and counting its most recent national championship in men’s soccer (2025). Traditions of Washington Athletics include 322 Olympians and Paralympians, originating The Wave during the third quarter of a 1981 football game, the familiar Huskies nickname in 1922, and its iconic Sailgating activities and encompassing view at what is known as The Greatest Setting in college football.

Hawaiian Airlines simplifies lobby experience by transitioning to self-service bag tag stations

March 11, 2026
Guest Experience
Hawaiian Airlines
33 min read

Summary



Investment in new self-service bag tag technology is part of a broader, ongoing effort to enhance and streamline the guest experience by reducing lobby lines, providing more self-service options, and optimizing airport operations



Hawaiian will introduce upgraded bag-tag software on its lobby kiosks in phases at its five Hawai‘i airports over the next several weeks

Hawaiian Airlines guests traveling through Hawai‘i airports and several continental U.S. and international airports will enjoy a more streamlined lobby experience as Hawaiian and Alaska airlines continue to integrate technology and systems to improve the guest experience. Hawaiian will introduce modern self-service bag-tag software on its lobby kiosks in phases at its five Hawai‘i airports starting later this month, while shifting to mobile and web check-in as the primary way for guests to obtain their boarding passes. Hawaiian’s continental U.S. and international lobbies will also undergo these updates through mid-April, with several locations already completed.

Guests will be able to use kiosks to print and attach baggage destination tags (bag tags) before proceeding to the bag drop areas. The upgrade is designed to reduce lobby wait times and congestion, making it easier for all guests to get to their departure gate, as well as reduce waste by discontinuing printed boarding passes.

We consistently hear from our guests that they want to spend less time in the airport lobby and prefer to get on their way as quickly and easily as possible. Our bag tag stations, in addition to further improvements coming this spring, are part of our continued journey to make the airport experience streamlined and as stress-free as possible. This transition is also an important step in our readiness for the integration of our passenger service system in April.”

Shelly Parker

Head of Hawai‘i guest operations, Hawaiian Airlines

Alaska Airlines lobbies that transitioned to the same self-service bag tag systems in 2023 have seen improvements in guest wait times and overall experience. On average, Alaska guests who pre-pay for their luggage spend less than 60 seconds at the bag station before dropping their bags — a model Hawaiian Airlines expects to replicate as travelers adopt the new technology.

With most of our guests already checking in on their mobile devices, we’re excited to introduce a more efficient self‑service bag‑tag process. These added options complement the broader upgrades we’re making across our digital platforms—including our website, mobile app, and new lobby technology for our agents—to help guests move from the lobby to the gate with greater ease. For guests who may be unable to check in prior to arriving at the airport or need additional assistance, our guest service agents will be available to help them at the service counter.”

Shelly Parker

Head of Hawai‘i guest operations, Hawaiian Airlines

Preparing for your trip in three easy steps:

Get travel‑ready before you leave home

Check in online or via the Hawaiian Airlines mobile app up to 24-hours prior to departure, pre-pay for checked baggage (receive $5 off the first bag fee on Hawaiian flights when paid in advance online or via the mobile app*) and download your boarding pass. Arrive at the airport with your boarding pass in hand, which enables self-service baggage tagging, saving you time at the airport, the need to see an agent, and reducing paper waste.

If you are not checking bags, you can head straight to security.

Tag your bags quickly using the bag tag stations

When you arrive at the airport, use the new bag tag stations to scan your boarding pass and print bag tags with just a few taps.

Drop your bags

Drop your bags at the designated areas and head straight to security.

* Effective April 22. Discount applies when a purchase is made on the web or app four or more hours before departure on a North America Itinerary.

Hawaiian’s investment in new self-service bag tag technology is part of a broader, ongoing effort to enhance and streamline the guest experience by reducing lobby lines, providing more self-service options, and optimizing airport operations.

Explore check-in options

Learn about recent guest updates

Frequently asked questions on Hawaiian's bag tag station upgrades

What are Hawaiian Airlines bag tag stations?

Bag‑tag stations are digital self‑service kiosks that allow guests to print and attach their own checked‑bag tags. Guests must check in through the Hawaiian Airlines app or website before using a bag‑tag station, as these stations will not print boarding passes. Guests who pre‑pay for checked bags during mobile or web check‑in will receive a discount; those who pay at the bag‑tag station will be charged the full price.

Why is Hawaiian replacing traditional check-in kiosks with bag tag stations?

We’re upgrading the software on our existing kiosks to give guests a faster, more streamlined bag‑tag experience. The enhanced self‑service stations help reduce lobby congestion, making it easier for guests to move quickly from check‑in to security—often in just a few minutes.

This upgrade also represents an important step in our passenger service system (PSS) integration coming in April, ensuring we’re ready to deliver an even smoother and more connected travel experience across both airlines.

What does this change mean for the check-in process?

Guests should check in digitally—via the Hawaiian Airlines app or the website—before coming to the airport. Once at the lobby, guests simply scan their boarding pass at the kiosk to print and attach their bag tags before heading to the bag drop area. Boarding passes are no longer printed at kiosks, but agents can still print them if needed.

I’m not checking bags, what should I do?

If you you’ve already checked in online, have a boarding pass and don’t have bags to check, you can skip the lobby and proceed straight to security.

Which airports will have bag tag stations? And how many stations will be at each airport?

All Alaska and Hawaiian stations (including international) will have bag tag stations by the end of April. This update is done on existing hardware, so guests will have access to the same number of stations in the same locations within our lobbies

Do I have to use a smartphone to check in now?

No. While the system is designed for mobile-first travel (and the majority of guests already use the app), travelers without smartphones may still check in via our website and print their boarding pass at home. Additionally, guests can receive assistance from an agent, including printing boarding passes or completing check-in steps.

Will customer service agents still be available?

Yes. Hawaiian will continue staffing its lobbies with agents who can assist guests who need help with boarding passes, checking in bags or pets, making changes to their reservation, or completing ID verification.

What happens to guests who arrive at the airport without having checked in?

We recommend arriving early to the airport if you have not checked in so our agents can assist you. While our new system strongly encourages mobile or online check‑in, guests who haven’t done so can still receive help from an agent.

How will this impact international travelers?

All Alaska and Hawaiian stations (including international) will have bag tag stations by the end of April. Guests traveling internationally should scan their passport details via the mobile app during check–in, or manually enter passport information on our website, and print their luggage tags at the bag tag stations.

How is this process improving the airport experience?

The new lobby design reduces wait times for all guests and offers a predictable, faster check-in flow. The entire bag-tag process can take under a minute, compared to several minutes with legacy kiosks.

Visit hawaiianairlines.com

About Alaska Air Group

Amid expanding global operation, Alaska Airlines names three aviation veterans to leadership roles in Europe, Asia and the South Pacific

March 9, 2026
Company
Alaska Airlines
20 min read

Alaska Airlines has named three airline veterans to regional leadership roles in support of our international growth, premium experience and global operations.

Cees Verkerk has been named managing director, United Kingdom and Europe. A native of the Netherlands, Verkerk is currently based in Seattle and will be based in London in the future.
Soojin Yu has been named regional managing director, Asia. Born and raised in Busan, Yu is based in Seoul and will oversee the performance of all routes in Asia.
Andrew Stanbury has been named regional managing director, South Pacific. He is based in Sydney, where he will oversee the performance of all routes across Australia, New Zealand, French Polynesia and the Cook Islands. Stanbury grew up in New Zealand, moved to Australia in 2008 and had a three-year stint in Fiji.

These new leadership roles are another step in Alaska’s strategic vision to connect guests to the world with a remarkable travel experience rooted in safety, care and performance. As Alaska and Hawaiian move forward as one team with two beloved brands, the network now spans more than 140 destinations, including 29 international markets throughout North America, Latin America, Asia and the Pacific, as well as Europe starting in spring.

More about our growing global team

Cees Verkerk has been with Alaska Airlines for 10 years, having served as managing director of station operations support and most recently, managing director of airport services. In his new role as managing director for the UK and Europe, Verkerk has responsibility for Alaska’s UK and European business, including long-term strategy and near-term execution. Verkerk will also serve as the cross-divisional liaison locally to ensure a smooth operational startup and build strong airport, partner and government relationships across the UK and Europe. Prior to joining Alaska, Verkerk was a management consultant at Point B, leading high-impact projects for both Boeing and Alaska Airlines. Verkerk also spent a decade at Medtronic, a global medical device company, where he managed portfolios across the U.S. and Europe.

Soojin Yu has been with Hawaiian Airlines since 2016 as country director for South Korea, overseeing general management of commercial activities in the country. She brings more than 35 years of experience in aviation, aeronautics, automobile and broadcast. Previously, she served as China business office manager – Asia Pacific region for Renault Samsung Motors in South Korea, where she led new vehicle development projects and new business platform initiatives. Yu worked as the marketing and communications manager for Air France KLM, and also served as an interpreter for pilots and mechanics for Samsung Aerospace and Eurocopteur. Yu began her career working in foreign exchange at the Banque Indosuez in Seoul. Yu holds a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Yonsei University in Seoul.

Andrew Stanbury has been with Hawaiian Airlines since 2019, initially as regional director for Australia and New Zealand, responsible for leading Hawaiian’s commercial activities in both countries and as managing director, international and North America sales from 2024-2025. Since combining with Alaska Airlines in 2025, he has served as regional director, South Pacific. Prior to joining Hawaiian, he served seven years with Fiji Airways including three years based in Nadi, Fiji as executive general manager for global sales and marketing, and eight years with Air New Zealand in various management roles, including regional sales management in New Zealand and as manager, marketing and communications in Australia.

Verkerk, Yu and Stanbury will serve as regional leads under the direction of Brett Catlin (vice president, loyalty, partnerships, & international) and Alex Judson (managing director, partnerships & international), who are based at Alaska’s headquarters in Seattle.

Connecting our guests to the world

With flights now available for booking at alaskaair.com, guests can purchase Alaska-operated flights to five intercontinental destinations in Europe and Asia from our expanding global gateway in Seattle:

Rome, Italy: Daily, summer seasonal flights beginning April 28, 2026
London Heathrow, United Kingdom: Daily, year-round flights beginning May 21, 2026
Reykjavik, Iceland: Daily, summer seasonal flights beginning May 28, 2026
Tokyo Narita, Japan: Daily, year-round flights that are now flying
Seoul Incheon, South Korea: Five-times-weekly, year-round flights that are now flying

From Honolulu, we continue to serve Japan, Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific under the Hawaiian Airlines brand and are investing in a full interior modernization of our Airbus A330 widebody airplanes to match the exceptional service our teams deliver onboard.

Visit hawaiianairlines.com

Visit alaskair.com

About Alaska Air Group

The ultimate power duo: How Atmos™ Rewards and the oneworld® Alliance deliver a smoother, elevated global travel experience

March 5, 2026
Loyalty
Chris Dong
19 min read

As a longtime oneworld^®frequent flyer, I remember being excited when Alaska Airlines joined the global airline alliance in 2021. Alaska has long had a strong lineup of partners, but alliances — first introduced in the late 1990s — take those partnerships one step further, especially for Atmos™ Rewards status holders.

Here’s how that plays out in real life:

For the 2025 calendar year, I’m an Atmos Gold member, a mid-tier status holder in the Atmos Rewards program that requires 40,000 status points. Atmos Gold also automatically qualifies me for oneworld Sapphire tier (no extra enrollment or application required). That means my Atmos Rewards status carries across the entire oneworld network of 15 international airlines. When I fly partners like Japan Airlines, Cathay Pacific or Qantas — all member carriers — I’m recognized as a oneworld Sapphire status holder. At the airport, Atmos Gold can get me access to select business class airport lounges (even if I fly economy) when traveling internationally outside the United States, Canada and Mexico, along with priority check-in, priority boarding and extra baggage allowance.

The oneworld Lounge at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport

Photo credit: oneworld Alliance

Long story short, Alaska Airlines’ global partnerships can elevate travel well beyond the flight itself.

In late April, Hawaiian Airlines will also officially join the oneworld Alliance, creating even more ways to leverage frequent flyer benefits.

What Atmos Rewards status unlocks at the airport

First, my Atmos Rewards status makes the airport experience calmer and more predictable across the entire oneworld network, thanks to priority check-in lines and a dedicated boarding zone. The key for me, however, is partner lounge access on select itineraries. These lounges transform the hours before a flight into something I genuinely look forward to.

Take, for instance, in January, when I flew from Tokyo-Narita to Seattle in Business Class aboard Alaska Airlines’ Boeing 787-9. At Narita International Airport, I entered the Japan Airlines Sakura Lounge at around 4 p.m., well before my 6:30 p.m. departure.

The two-story space offers sweeping tarmac views, plenty of comfortable seating options and thoughtfully prepared local cuisine (think: cooked fish and sushi, plus sake and shochu stations). My favorite dish, though, was a rich and comforting beef curry served over steamed short-grain rice. It was exactly the meal I craved after a long day exploring Tokyo. Plus, it was an ideal way to cap off my time in Japan.

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol oneworld lounge

The oneworld lounges at Seoul-Incheon International Airport and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport

Photo credit: oneworld Alliance

A world tour of oneworld lounges, from Asia to Europe

Over the past few years, while crisscrossing the globe, I’ve visited over two dozen oneworld member airline lounges across Asia, Europe and beyond. Many of these lounges are places I genuinely wouldn’t mind being stuck during a long layover. It was my oneworld status that provided me with access to these pre-departure sanctuaries.

In the Hong Kong International Airport, for example, oneworld Sapphire members can step into The Pier Business Class Lounge from Cathay Pacific. It’s designed to feel more like someone’s living room than an airport holding area, with features like a tranquil tea house, a dedicated relaxation room and calming, residential-like interiors.

Over at London’s Heathrow Airport, the British Airways Galleries Club is a dependable oneworld lounge with separate seating zones designed for eating, relaxing or getting work done. There’s also a self-serve Champagne bar, along with a rotating selection of hot British and international dishes.

The Alaska Lounge at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport’s N Concourse

What sets Alaska’s Seattle Lounges apart

Back in the Pacific Northwest, I visited the Alaska Lounge in Seattle-Tacoma International Airport’s N Concourse, a 15,000-square-foot, light-filled space designed for relaxation and one of Alaska’s three Seattle lounges. Earlier this year, my Business Class trip from Seattle to Tokyo on Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines provided me with entry (though oneworld Sapphire and Emerald status holders may also access the Lounge).

I was instantly drawn to the floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic runway views (and the mountains beyond). For av-geeks like me, the scenery alone is reason to arrive plenty early, with wide-body takeoffs putting on a show in the early afternoon. There’s also a proper barista station pulling real espresso, along with a rotating selection of entrees.

Having oneworld lounge access lets alliance benefits shine even before boarding — from a cappuccino at an Alaska Lounge to seamless entry across a global network of airline partners — and it all stems from the power of Atmos Rewards status.

Explore Atmos Rewards

Learn more about oneworld

Hawaiian Airlines welcomes Chef Dell Valdez as new executive chef, introducing elevated First Class dining experience

March 3, 2026
Guest Experience
Hawaiian Airlines
28 min read

Summary



The appointment of Chef Valdez is one of several guest-focused commitments the airline is making. From upgraded cabin interiors to elevated inflight dining, Hawaiian is investing in experiences that celebrate island hospitality and deliver greater comfort, choice and authenticity to its guests.



The airline is also launching a new First Class pre-order program in May, giving guests more control, convenience and the ability to select meals in advance.



With pre-order, guests can choose from an expanded menu – including more options that fit their dietary needs – ensuring they receive their preferred dish onboard.

Hawaiian Airlines today announced the appointment of Chef Dell Valdez, the Hawaiʻi-born culinary leader behind Vein in Kakaʻako, as well as Dell’s Kitchen & Bakery and Mio PASTALOGY, as the carrier’s new Executive Chef. Known for his ingredient-driven approach and deep respect for local food culture, Chef Valdez will bring his modern interpretation of Hawaiʻi’s diverse culinary identity to the airline’s First Class dining program while continuing to oversee the airline’s Featured Chef Series.

Our goal is to elevate the inflight dining experience by prioritizing Hawaiian hospitality. Chef Dell has been part of our culinary ʻohana since 2021, and his heartfelt understanding of Hawaiʻi’s culinary heritage make him an ideal partner as we elevate choice, quality and authenticity for our guests.”

Alisa Onishi

Managing director of Hawaiʻi marketing , Hawaiian Airlines

Chef Valdez’s menus for Hawaiian’s international Business Class guests will debut tomorrow, with domestic First Class flights to follow later this year.

For Business Class guests traveling between Honolulu and Japan or Oceania, menu items include tender braised short rib with a scallion ginger risotto and seasonal vegetables, Asian braised beef paired with saffron rice pilaf, green apple maple cider salad, hearts of palm salad, roasted chicken with shiso buerre blanc or herb roasted pork loin with a soy kabocha squash puree.

The second service leans into the comforts of home: guests can choose between thick-cut sweet bread French toast draped in berries and lilikoi syrup or go the savory route with a tamagoyaki omelet folded around roasted peppers and kale. Additional options include a kalbi-grilled chicken sandwich or a roasted miso eggplant parmesan sandwich.

It’s an honor to bring the flavors I grew up with to guests from around the world. Hawaiian Airlines is such an important symbol of home, and I wanted these menus to reflect that feeling of warmth and belonging. Every dish is inspired by the ingredients and traditions that make Hawaiʻi special, prepared with the same care and intention we put into our food at home.”

Chef Dell Valdez

Executive chef, Hawaiian Airlines

Born and raised in the Islands, Chef Valdez has built a reputation for elevating familiar flavors through thoughtful technique, balance and seasonality. His cooking celebrates the Pacific, Asian and U.S. continental influences that shape Hawaiʻi’s cuisine, while placing strong emphasis on comfort, approachability and a meaningful sense of place. Whether designing menus for restaurants or large-scale programs, he is known for creating food that feels both rooted and refined — an approach that aligns seamlessly with Hawaiian Airlines’ commitment to island-inspired hospitality.

The appointment of Chef Valdez is one of several guest-focused commitments the airline is making. Earlier this year, Hawaiian announced the Kahu‘ewai Hawai‘i Investment Plan, a multi‑year effort to enhance the guest experience across the travel journey. From upgraded cabin interiors to elevated inflight dining, Hawaiian is investing in experiences that celebrate island hospitality and deliver greater comfort, choice and authenticity to its guests.

Chef Valdez will succeed Hawaiian’s first-ever executive chef duo, Wade and Michelle Ueoka of Honolulu’s MW Restaurant, who have led the airline’s culinary program since 2021.

I’d also like to extend my sincerest gratitude to our former Executive Chefs Wade Ueoka and Michelle Karr-Ueoka for their many years of partnership and culinary leadership. Their creativity, talent and dedication helped shape a memorable dining experience for our guests, and we are deeply appreciative of their contributions to our inflight program.”

Alisa Onishi

Managing director of Hawaiʻi marketing, Hawaiian Airlines

View the Chef Dell Valdez press kit

First Class pre-order touching down in May

Hawaiian Airlines is excited to introduce a new First Class pre‑order meal program beginning in May to elevate the inflight dining experience and bring greater choice, convenience and personalization to guests. The new technology marks a significant enhancement to Hawaiian’s First Class service, allowing travelers to review the full menu before their flight and select the dish that best suits their tastes or dietary needs.

By allowing guests to plan ahead, Hawaiian is offering more transparency while also ensuring guests enjoy their first choice onboard. Hawaiian will also gradually increase the number of available meal options throughout the year, giving travelers a broader range of selections.

Introducing pre‑order is an important step in bringing smarter, more intuitive technology to the Hawaiian Airlines experience. This isn’t just about making meal selection available — it’s about giving our guests more control, more customization, and ensuring they receive exactly what they want. Guests of Alaska Airlines have long appreciated the convenience and confidence that comes with pre‑ordering their meals, and we’re excited to bring those same benefits to Hawaiian’s First Class travelers.”

Mark Krolick

Managing director of inflight products and experience, Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines

First Class pre-ordering will be available through the Hawaiian Airlines mobile app or through hawaiianairlines.com from two weeks to 20 hours prior to a flight.

Go to the Chef Dell Valdez press kit

Visit hawaiianairlines.com

About Alaska Air Group

Summary

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A refined International Business Class built for global travel

From Seattle to the world: Alaska Airlines celebrates five years of global connectivity

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Summary

A simpler way for guests to manage their trips

A customizable app to match the iconic look of Alaska or Hawaiian

What is new — and what stays the same

Progress toward a smoother end-to-end journey

Important reminders

Dates to know

Questions and answers

What is the new combined Alaska Hawaiian mobile app?

Why are Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines launching a single app now?

When will the new app be available?

Will the existing Hawaiian Airlines app be sunsetted?

What new features will travelers be able to access in the new combined app?

What changes specifically for Alaska Airlines travelers with this new app?

What changes specifically for Hawaiian Airlines travelers with the new app?

Will Hawaiian Airlines customers need to download a new app, or will it automatically transition?

Will Alaska Airlines customers need to download a new app, or will it automatically transition?

Which app should be used for travel?

What does the “dual-brand” app experience actually mean for users?

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Connecting Alaska’s communities

Game time at Alaska Airlines

Cheering in the stands and carrying the locals home

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Telling a story of growth

The pitch

From tarmac to T-Mobile Park

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Summary

Added routes and seats expand spring break options

Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines are operating more than 12 million seats across March and April, marking the largest spring break schedule in their history.

Guest-favorite destinations and notable operations

Spring break pre-trip and day-of travel tips

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Summary

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Summary

Preparing for your trip in three easy steps:

Get travel‑ready before you leave home

Tag your bags quickly using the bag tag stations

Drop your bags

Hawaiian’s investment in new self-service bag tag technology is part of a broader, ongoing effort to enhance and streamline the guest experience by reducing lobby lines, providing more self-service options, and optimizing airport operations.

Frequently asked questions on Hawaiian's bag tag station upgrades

What are Hawaiian Airlines bag tag stations?

Why is Hawaiian replacing traditional check-in kiosks with bag tag stations?

What does this change mean for the check-in process?

I’m not checking bags, what should I do?

Which airports will have bag tag stations? And how many stations will be at each airport?

Do I have to use a smartphone to check in now?

Will customer service agents still be available?

What happens to guests who arrive at the airport without having checked in?

How will this impact international travelers?

How is this process improving the airport experience?

Related news & stories

More about our growing global team

Connecting our guests to the world

Related news & stories

Here’s how that plays out in real life:

Long story short, Alaska Airlines’ global partnerships can elevate travel well beyond the flight itself.

What Atmos Rewards status unlocks at the airport

A world tour of oneworld lounges, from Asia to Europe

What sets Alaska’s Seattle Lounges apart

Having oneworld lounge access lets alliance benefits shine even before boarding — from a cappuccino at an Alaska Lounge to seamless entry across a global network of airline partners — and it all stems from the power of Atmos Rewards status.

Related news & stories

Summary

First Class pre-order touching down in May

Related news & stories

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