Alaska Airlines’ board of directors has elected Celley Buchanan vice president of airport operations and customer service. In this role she is responsible for all aspects of the airline’s airport operations across its broad network, excluding Seattle.
Buchanan is a 23-year veteran of Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air. She started her career as a customer service agent in Los Angeles (LAX) and served there for 13 years, progressing into leadership of all aspects of Alaska’s operation, including serving as LAX general manager.
She then moved to Horizon Air as director of ground operations for two years, before moving back to Alaska as director of operations support services. She has been in her current role, managing director of airport operations support for Alaska since 2020, where she set the long term strategy for ground support equipment, business partner performance, cabin cleaning, deicing and divisional safety, among other programs.
Celley Buchanan
Buchanan’s leadership helped to establish the airline’s Next-Level Care program at the start of the pandemic, which introduced more than 100 safety policies and procedures designed to ensure the safety of our guests and employees.
Celley is a people leader with a deep understanding of our operation and what makes us tick,” said Wayne Newton, senior vice president of airport operations and customer service at Alaska Airlines and chairman of McGee Air Services board of directors. “Her tenacity and skill working across the organization will raise our airports teams to even higher levels of performance, safety and empowerment.”
Buchanan is a graduate of the University of Washington’s Foster School of Business Executive MBA program. Connect with her on LinkedIn.
Love is – quite literally – in the air at Alaska Airlines
Grab a tissue! This love story may bring tears to your eyes and definitely make your heart skip a beat.
Yesterday, Skywest Flight Attendant Veronica flew with her girlfriend (and newly hired Alaska pilot!) Alejandra on our special Pride delight flight from San Francisco to Los Angeles. Skywest is one of Alaska’s regional airline partners in the Pacific Northwest.
They first met while flying Alaska Airlines two years ago.
“I was just like, ‘Oh, wow, this girl, she’s perfect,’” Veronica said.
Recently, she shared her idea for a mid-air marriage proposal with the team and how the couple has always wanted to fly on our “Fly With Pride” plane—of course, we were onboard and going to make this happen!
On Wednesday afternoon, Veronica told Alejandra to pack her bags for a quick trip from SFO to LAX. Halfway through the flight, in true flight-attendant fashion, Veronica used the PA system to propose to Alejandra (in English and Spanish!).
But there’s a plot twist!
We had no idea Alejandra was also planning to propose to Veronica that same day.
When the couple deplaned, Alejandra surprised all of us by popping the question to Veronica at the gate, and a double proposal celebration at LAX ensued!
It’s awesome, I feel very, very loved today,” said Alejandra. “Alaska has always been my number one forever. I can definitely tell how much they care.”
Fly with Pride on Alaska Airlines
There are many ways you can fly with Pride this year. Whether it’s jet setting to a parade or taking a trip to visit loved ones, we have you covered to celebrate pride onboard.
We’re also celebrating the first anniversary of our Pride aircraft in Alaska Airlines’ network.
I’ve always appreciated Alaska; how deeply involved they are in the LGBTQ+ community,” Veronica said. “All the love and support is just super overwhelming and amazing.”
Food & Beverage
Treat yourself at 30,000 feet (for those 21+) with our new INTRINSIC wine in First Class. The fruity, spicy and silky-smooth Washington State Cabernet Sauvignon is not only delicious but also proudly supports GLAAD and the LGBTQ+ community.
Movies & TV Shows
During your flight, don’t miss our dedicated collection of LGBTQ+ films and TV shows on board, such as RuPaul’s Drag Race, Love Simon, Transfinite, The Birdcage and more. Connect to our Wi-Fi network on your device to watch for free and visit AlaskaWiFi.com to browse our extensive library.
Music
Listen closely as you board our plane and you might hear songs from LGBTQ+ artists, including Torii Wolf, Sarah, the Illstrumentalist, Low Girl and more. We love setting the tone for a great flight!
Parades
Want to celebrate Pride with us? Alaska will be sponsoring parades throughout the year:
Portland, June 19
San Francisco, June 26
Seattle, June 26
San Diego, July 16
Boise, Sept. 9-11
Honolulu, Oct. 15
Palm Springs, Nov. 4-6
At Alaska, we are proudly committed to the communities we serve. We care deeply about celebrating diversity, creating a culture of inclusion and belonging, and fighting for equality in the workplace and around the globe to help create a more equitable society.
As longtime supporters of the LGBTQ+ community through public policy advocacy and corporate giving, we continue to explore ways to foster an inclusive work environment and work closely with Alaska’s Pride Crew (formerly known as GLOBE), our LGBTQ+ business resource group and employees to create meaningful change for our colleagues, guests and partners.
Happy Pride month!
Hello there, Cleveland! Hey, Miami! Alaska Airlines now flies to two new destinations
We’ve also added new nonstop routes that connect Boise to Idaho Falls and Las Vegas;new nonstop flight between Anchorage and Salt Lake City starts service this weekend
With the official start of summer just days away, Alaska Airlines is once again expanding our horizons with the launch of five new routes this week as many of us are eager for fun in the sun in different places.
We’re now flying to two new cities: Cleveland and Miami with daily nonstop service from our hometown hub in Seattle. Plus, we keep growing in Boise with new nonstops to both Idaho Falls and Las Vegas. And we have a new nonstop flight between Anchorage and Salt Lake City.
Northeast Ohio, South Florida, southern Idaho – we’re flying new routes and heading to new destinations where our guests want to go,” said Brett Catlin, vice president of network and alliances at Alaska Airlines. “We’re seeing strong tickets sales for all our new nonstops. That’s another indication that so many of us are ready to get out and go places.”
Tickets for all flights are available for purchase on alaskaair.com.
We begin flying between Seattle and Cleveland today. This summer, we’re the only airline connecting the vibrant city in Northeast Ohio with nonstop service to the Pacific Northwest. Cleveland becomes the third city we’ll serve in the Buckeye State with daily nonstops to Seattle joining Columbus and Cincinnati.
“We are truly excited to welcome Alaska Airlines to the Cleveland Market,” said Robert Kennedy, Director of Airports, Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. “It’s great to see this exceptional air service to Seattle that will connect Clevelander’s to West Coast cities, Hawaii, western Canada and Alaska.”
We’re also launching today our new daily nonstop flight between Seattle and Miami. The popular South Florida vacation spot becomes our 100th nonstop destination from Seattle – a cultural hub for travelers around the world with its incredible nightlife, art, music, architecture and food. Since 2012, we’ve provided nonstop service between Seattle and Fort Lauderdale, just to the north of Miami.
We proudly welcome Alaska Airlines back to Miami International Airport for the first time in 10 years,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “Daily flights to the Pacific Northwest and beyond will give our residents more travel options, especially to the beautiful state of Alaska. I also commend Alaska Airlines for being included in TIME Magazine’s list of the 100 Most Influential Companies of 2022 for its work in sustainability, one of my highest priorities for Miami-Dade County.”
In Boise, we keep growing with a pair of new flights we know our guests have been eager to see. Starting today, we now offer daily nonstop service to both Idaho Falls and Las Vegas from the Idaho capital city. With these additional routes, we’ll fly an average of 31 daily departures from Boise to 15 destinations – all nonstop.
Our flight between Idaho Falls and Boise will offer an easier, more convenient way to travel for business and leisure. The flight times work out well for a day trip from Idaho Falls to Boise: a mid-morning departure and then a return flight in the early evening. The added route joins our existing flights from the Spokane/Coeur d’Alene and Pullman/Moscow areas to link all key population centers across the state to Boise.
“We are thrilled this moment has become a reality for our great community,” said Idaho Falls Mayor Rebecca Casper. “Providing this nonstop flight to Boise opens up greater economic opportunities through the only intrastate commercial airline service.”
Starting June 18, we’ll connect two summertime spots that are famous for outdoor adventures: Anchorage and Salt Lake City. We’ll fly nonstop every week. This summer, we’ll offer a wide variety of 22 nonstop destinations from Anchorage.
We can all agree getting to a destination safely is the most important thing during a travel day, but getting there in the easiest way possible is also great. Cue, Alaska’s mobile app.
Our app is the perfect travel companion from the day you start shopping for flights, all the way through to the moment you arrive at your destination. You can use it to plan your trip, skip the lines and get your digital boarding pass right at your finger tips.
Download the Alaska Airlines app for iPhone, Android, or Windows Phone before your next flight (you’ll be glad you did!). ✈️
Here are some of the reasons to go mobile next time you fly with us:
1. Hassle-free check-in
The app makes it easy to check in 1 to 24 hours prior to your scheduled departure.
Simply add your reservation using your flight confirmation number and name—and follow the steps until it says you’re checked in!
Pro tip: Move faster through airport security lines by applying for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry—simply add your known traveler number or redress number during the check-in process.
2. Mobile boarding pass
Once you’re checked in, it should take you to your mobile boarding pass—which also helps you fly more sustainably (no paper = happy trees).
Pro tip: The app allows you to scan one boarding pass for each family or for groups on the same reservation.
3. Pre-order meals
Enjoy fresh ingredients inspired by the West Coast, from snacks to freshly prepared meals, by pre-ordering your favorites ahead your flight.
Pro tip: Meal orders are open 14 days before departure. In case you missed it: Mileage Plan members can store a method of payment in their Mileage Plan account for touch-free inflight purchases, including food and beverages. Join/Sign in Mileage Plan
Using the app, you can pay for any applicable fees for checked baggage during the check-in process.
Pro tip:Baggage discounts apply for select guests, including Alaska Airlines credit card holders, Elite level Mileage Plan members, and US military personnel.
Skip the line! Print your bag tags at one of our kiosks in the lobby using your mobile boarding pass. Once the tag prints, you can tag/drop your bag at our bag drop area.
You can also print your bag tags at home, using our self-tag feature. When traveling from an eligible airport, you can print bag tags at home using self-tag online, or once you arrive at the airport at one of our self-tag kiosks. Then look for our designated baggage drop areas, and you’ll be quickly on your way.
How it self-tagging works:
Book your trip on our mobile app or at alaskaair.com.
Follow instructions in your pre-trip email to request a bag tag holder in advance by mail or pick up a holder in person at the airport.
Check in online up to 24 hours before your flight and follow the instructions to print a bag tag at home.
Insert your printed bag tag into the tag pouch.
At the airport, follow signs for “Bag Drop.”
Show the agent your boarding pass, identification and drop off your bags.
5. Booking tickets
Book your next flight or find the cheapest fare on the fly on our app.
Before your trip: – Check in and get your mobile boarding pass – Select and change your seats – Prepay for checked baggage
During your trip: – Check your flight status – Change your reservation – Get boarding notices and other travel updates – Print your own bag tags – View and manage your travel receipts – Track your Mileage Plan™ balance
Alaska Airlines names new 25-year airline veteran to lead inflight team
Alaska Airlines’ board of directors named Matt Prainito vice president of inflight, as part of the airline’s goal to bring together its frontline operation and provide a foundation for growth. Prainito will lead strategy and operations for Alaska’s flight attendants who, on every flight, every day, ensure that guests’ journeys are safe and remarkable with genuine, caring service.
A 25-year veteran of the airline, Prainito previously served as vice president of airport and inflight operations at Horizon Air, where he helped the airline return to stability following the pandemic, restoring operations and engaging employees.
Matt is highly regarded by those he has led for his collaborative, hands-on approach to problem solving and continuous improvement,” said Constance von Muehlen, executive vice president and chief operating officer for Alaska Airlines. “He is laser focused on our guests and the stability of our operation, while at the same time he puts employees first and is always looking for new ways to connect with them, visiting airports, on flights or on Instagram.”
Prainito started with Alaska in 1997 as a customer service agent in Los Angeles before stepping into airport manager roles in Burbank, Ontario and LAX. He served as regional manager, director of airport operations and managing director of airport operations for the state of Alaska, Hawaii and the Pacific Northwest. He was promoted vice president at Horizon Air in 2019 and led the regional carrier through a period of great challenge during the pandemic.
In 2012, Prainito received the Alaska Airlines Leadership Award, based on his frontline experience, unparalleled knowledge of customer service strategies, and his unwavering commitment to guests and employees.
Prainito has a bachelor’s in business administration and management from Grand Canyon University and a private pilot’s license. Connect with Prainito on LinkedIn.
Celebrating Flight Attendants’ 50 years in the skies for Alaska Airlines
Carole, Denise, Vicky and Linda celebrate over 50 years in the sky
Today is International Flight Attendant Day—a day where we collectively tip our hats to our flight attendants with awe and appreciation for all that you do, every flight, every day to ensure safety and care for our guests. And what better way to honor our inflight team than to celebrate four incredible women who have each spent over 50 years in the skies for Alaska Airlines. Here’s their story.
It was 1967—the year of the mini skirt, gas was 33 cents a gallon, McDonalds introduced the Big Mac, Paul Newman was the national hunk and Carole joined the company as a flight attendant.
Having answered an ad, Carole showed up at the Swept Wing Inn, a motel near Sea-Tac, for what at the time was the largest class ever of new flight attendants: 12. The aircraft they were training on was the Boeing 727. Alaska had just acquired it. Sleek, fast, Carole called it the “Cadillac of the skies.”
Five years later, in 1972, three other trailblazers joined the company — Denise, Vicky and Linda. They were to begin a grand adventure, flying on dozens of different aircraft, wearing multiple new uniforms (all the latest fashion) and inaugurating hundreds of new cities during their careers at Alaska.
It was so grand that when Carole got her 55-year pin this month, and Denise, Vicky and Linda their 50-year pins, they wondered how time had flown so fast. Reaching over 50 years of service is something very few employees at Alaska Airlines have ever done. Carole is the longest-serving flight attendant in company history. She’s been with the airline for over half of our 90 years.
Carole, Denise, Vicky and Linda truly are awe inspiring. They define excellence,” said Constance von Muehlen, COO. “They set the high standards of safety and care we follow today, and we are incredibly thankful and grateful for them, as they personify the Alaska spirit.”
Below, they share some of their favorite memories:
Carole – 55 Year Flight Attendant
Flight Attendant Carole, based in Seattle.
Most memorable flights: Working our Ashland charters in Elizabethan costumes, flying to Russia and offering treats for the local children and her favorite—the Fantasy Flights, bringing holiday cheer to underprivileged children.
Staying in a trailer in Fairbanks: As a low-budget option, Carole and fellow crew members overnighted in trailers in Fairbanks. There was a pilot trailer and a flight attendant trailer. “Sometimes the water wasn’t good, due to the permafrost, but it was cozy.”
Leaders over the years: Carole recalls Charlie Willis being kind-hearted but “not a very good businessman,” Bruce Kennedy and Ron Cosgrave, “saved the company.“ And Brad Tilden, who volunteered to help her collect trash on a Seahawks charter flight, as being kind. “Here we were on a VIP flight and our CEO is helping me pick up garbage.”
Carole with then CEO Brad Tilden picking up trash
What she’s grateful for: So many of her coworkers, including those from her class that have since retired, Judy B., Joanie S., Lynn O…. the list goes on. “How lucky I have been to work with so many wonderful people.”
Carole in her Golden Nugget era uniform
Her fav destination: Sitka where, “it’s just magical. The people are just so incredibly friendly. It’s like stepping back in time.”
Denise – 50 Year Flight Attendant
Early years: She started as a customer service agent, and then moved to flight attendant.
Fight Attendant Denise, based in Seattle.
Most vivid memory: Working the Fantasy Flights in Spokane during the holiday season. “It’s a privilege to see the unconditional love given to these children in housing transition. A blessing for sure.”
She’s thankful for: “When I joined the Alaska Family in 1972, those who were already here were my teachers, they set the standards. Those who have joined our family since continue to teach, bring joy and memories every day. “
Fav place to fly: Her heart is in the state of Alaska. Fairbanks and Anchorage are her favorite places to visit. After that? The Midwest and Honolulu.
Linda – 50 Year Flight Attendant
What she loves about her job: The people!
Anyone special? Too many to name. “Alaska Airlines is the people you work with and the friends you make. It is the reason I am still doing the job after 50 years!”
Flight Attendant Linda, based in Seattle.
Fav place to fly? Puerto Vallarta!
Of all the uniforms over the years, her favorites? “Any of them when I was young!”
Vicky – 50 Year Flight Attendant
Best flight ever: Being part of an Eclipse flight in conjunction with Pacific Science Center. “The views were amazing, especially from the flight deck, and I still have my can of ‘dark’ that we gave out onboard.”
Flight Attendant Vicky, based in Seattle.
Least favorite uniform over the years: Hot pants with go-go boots. (Yes, they wore ’em!)
Advice she’d give new flight attendants today: “If a guest is giving you a bad time, remember that the flight will be over soon. Someone has to live with that person all the time!”
She loves: The travel benefits. “My parents were able to see the Arctic and experience the ‘Arctic Bump’ and my whole family was able to travel.”
Alaska Airlines ‘powerful and special’ salute to fallen members of the military, son of Alaska flight attendant
Alaska’s 12th fallen soldier cart, in honor of SPC Hunter Schmidtke, was made and delivered by our maintenance & engineering team. It will remain in our care but also be available for any airline at Kansas City International Airport transporting the remains of a fallen service members.
Tightly gripping her son’s Army beret, Julia Schmidtke, an Alaska flight attendant, recently got to see the fallen soldier cart built in honor of her son, SPC Hunter Schmidtke, at Alaska’s Maintenance Hangar in Seattle.
Twenty-five-year-old Hunter Schmidtke, died in 2018 while serving at Fort Riley, Kansas. The special cart was delivered to Kansas City International Airport on Tuesday where it will be used to transport the remains of fallen members of the military from any plane that needs it.
Julia says her son was just a few months shy of returning to serve in their hometown of Tacoma before his passing.
Designed and crafted by Alaska maintenance and engineering employees—some veterans, some not—the special cart is meant to honor heroes like Hunter, who gave everything for their country.
A special plaque was installed inside the cart with a photo of Hunter, it reads: “In loving memory of SPC Hunter Schmidtke US Army Bravo Company 16 Fort Riley Kansas. Deeply loved son and brother. 18 Aug 1995 – 15 Jan 2018.”
This is an incredible thing and means so much to Gold Star families like ours,” Julia said. “In a way it’s like he’s going back to serve his country.”
Julia and her family are part of the military’s Gold Star Program, which represents families and loved ones who have experienced a loss of an immediate family member who died as the result of military service.
She proudly wears her Gold Star pin on her uniform when she flies. “It’s a small way I keep his memory alive, and it reminds me that he’s always with me and close to my heart,” she says. Julia has been a flight attendant with us for nine years.
The Gold Star pin serves as a way for Julia to connect with guests who’ve experienced similar losses. “My heart breaks for anyone who’s had to experience the loss of a child,” she said. “It brings me joy being able to talk about Hunter when I can and in a way is healing.”
In 2018, Hunter’s remains were brought home on our Honoring Those Who Serve Aircraft, it was the first time a fallen soldier who was related to a family member at Alaska Airlines was flown by the special aircraft. His brother, Trevor, was so moved by the respect Alaska paid to his brother and family, he applied to be a flight attendant and currently flies with us today.
“It was a powerful and incredibly moving experience to see everyone come together for Hunter and our family,” Julia said.
Video in remembrance of Hunter, courtesy of the Schmidtke family. See :59 his return home on Alaska Airlines.
At Alaska, there is one cart reserved for heroes.
For over a decade, Alaska has had a company-wide program designed to ensure military families like the Schmidtke’s are treated with the utmost respect.
Each unique fallen soldier cart is crafted by our Maintenance & Engineering team and is stationed at airports around the country. They’re available to honor members and veterans of all branches of the military.
Specifically designed and dedicated to fallen service members, each cart is adorned with American flag curtains and the insignia of the five branches of the military to ensure the fallen will be surrounded with respect and honor by those who accompany them on their final journey.
This year’s cart was assembled in Seattle and then driven to Kansas City by Alaska maintenance employees under escort by Patriot Guard Riders, who volunteer to accompany the cart throughout its entire journey. It’s also the first cart to be delivered since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Patriot Guard is an organization that attends the funerals of members of the U.S. military and first responders at the invitation of a decedent’s family. The group, made up of motorcycle riders and drivers, escort Alaska fallen soldier carts to their final destination.
Kevin Kruse, a line aircraft technician trainer and one of the creators of the Fallen Soldier Program notes Alaska also established protocols for airline employees to follow when a service member’s body is traveling, which has set the precedent for the industry.
Kevin Kruse (right) with Julia at the MCI fallen soldier cart sendoff ceremony in Seattle earlier this month.
This is our way to have soldiers’ backs and provide them with the service they deserve on their final journey home, so that families like Julia’s know that people cared about what they did,” Kruse says. “You can never take away their pain, but you can always show you care.”
In addition to Kansas City, we will deliver our 13th cart to San Jose International Airport later this year. Alaska has dedicated carts in Fairbanks, Phoenix, Anchorage, Seattle, Portland, San Diego, Los Angeles, Honolulu, Washington, D.C., Dallas and San Francisco. While the carts remain under Alaska’s care at each airport, they are available for any airline to use when transporting remains of fallen service members.
Alaska employees go the extra mile to support AANHPI communities, end Asian hate
This May, during Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (AANHPI)Heritage Month, we recognize the history and achievements of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders across our network. Story by Shanyn Wright and Maria Cid, Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines stands against hate and violence of any kind. We remain appalled and heartbroken to see violent and racists attacks and harassment continue throughout the country including those in the AANHPI community.
To help create meaningful change and in recognition of AANHPI month, a group of Alaska employees recently flew to Washington D.C., to facilitate conversations among lawmakers to discuss matters close to AANHPI communities.
Leaders of Alaska’s Air Group Pan Asian (AGPA) and Pacific Islander Alliance (PIA) Business Resource Groups (BRGs) met with several policymakers and national leaders to discuss topics ranging from rising anti-Asian hate crimes to increasing representation.
“It was a strong way for us to show up not just for our BRG members and employees but also for our communities,” says Lindsay, a PIA leader. “Opportunities like this empower us to use our collective voice and engage on a national level, which feels incredible to bring back and share with others.”
Meeting with Deputy Assistant to the President and AANHPI Senior Liaison to the White House Erika Moritsugu was a trip highlight for our employees. Moritsugu and BRG leaders discussed the administration’s support of AANHPI interests.
Alaska employees meeting with Erika Moritsugu who is Deputy Assistant to the President and AANHPI Senior Liaison to the White House.
Our communities are so diverse; we all need to be heard,” said AGPA co-leader Nia. “I felt energized by Erika’s dedication to ensuring we’re represented on the local, state, and federal levels.”
For decades, Alaska has championed employee-organized groups like BRGs, that celebrate and advocate diversity, equity and inclusion at the company.
These groups are critical in helping us build an inclusive culture that supports and moves us closer to our goal of inclusion and belonging for all. They also play a key role in helping us increase our Inclusion Index Score, which holds us accountable to our DEI commitments.
BRGs, such as AGPA and PIA, create safe spaces for employees to engage and support one another while celebrating and advocating for cultures, causes and other initiatives our employees care about.
Lawmakers & Alaska BRG leaders met in Washington D.C. to facilitate conversations regarding matters close to AANHPI communities.
Meeting at the table for delicious cuisine and deep conversations in San Francisco
Recently, a group of influential Bay Area members of the AANHPI community gathered at Alaska’s San Francisco Lounge to discuss the current climate and share ways to make our neighborhoods safer and better for everyone.
Vietnamese American and Season 15 Top Chef Tu David Phu was an honorary guest.
“I’ve felt so unseen for the longest time and to have a strong internationally recognized brand like Alaska Airlines say, ‘We believe and support Asian American identities,’ I have never felt more seen in my life,” said Phu.
Top Chef Tu David Phu
Among those ‘at the SFO table,’ were youth activist Ashlyn So, 13, who helped organize Stop Asianhate rallies in the Bay Area, Carl Chan who is the Oakland Chinatown Chamber of Commerce President and advocacy manager Shanti Prasad of the Stop AAPI Hate coalition.
The event also celebrated AANHPI Month with the culmination of authentic Vietnamese dishes made by Chef Tu Phu, as well as desserts made by Bay Area Asian American business owners. At the heart of every Asian culture are the gatherings that occur around food.
By elevating the voices of the AANHPI community, we are not only celebrating our beautiful cultures, we are raising awareness about the diversity within our communities and the alarming rise in xenophobia, which has resulted in heinous crimes against innocent people,” said Edrea, an AGPA leader who was in attendance. “Education is the key to breaking down barriers and these events allow our community to be visible.”
Alaska Airlines statement on strike authorization vote: our pilots are not on strike
The union representing Alaska Airlines pilots – the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) – conducted a ‘strike-authorization ballot’ this month. Today, ALPA released the result of that vote. As expected, pilots approved the measure.
Here’s what you need to know:
Alaska Airlines pilots are not on strike.
As ALPA said this morning, a strike can only occur after a specific, multi-step process involving the federal government and National Mediation Board.
Our guests and operation are not impacted by this vote.
We remain committed to reaching a deal to provide an updated contract that is good for Alaska’s pilots.
Marshalling the Pope’s plane, working with family: Alaska technicians reminisce on Aviation Maintenance Technician Day
Louie K. (far right) poses for a photo with colleagues in Fairbanks. From L to R: technician Tom C., technician Jim T., ramp service agent Keith V. and technician Larry M.. Jim and Larry were both in Louie’s A&P class!
Today is Aviation Maintenance Technician Day, a day that recognizes Charles Taylor, the Wright Brothers’ mechanic and father of aviation maintenance. It also celebrates all Aviation Maintenance Technicians and the hard work, dedication and commitment to safely keeping aircraft airworthy every day.
At Alaska, we have six technicians who’ve been here for 40 years or more! We spoke with Louie K., a Seattle-based line aircraft technician and John B., a Juneau-based line avionics technician, to reflect on their career and memorable moments.
Louie K., Seattle-based line aircraft technician — joined Alaska on June 1, 1979
Louie smiles for the camera next to an aircraft.
Louie was only 18 years old when he joined Alaska in Fairbanks. His stepfather was the head of the Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) School at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, and many of the technicians in that part of Alaska went through that school, including those at Alaska Airlines. A&P licenses are the two Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certificates required to become an aviation maintenance technician.
“Several students from my class were hired at Alaska – Kim H., a Seattle line aircraft technician, went through the school a year or two after I did with my younger brother,” said Louie. “I’ve known and worked with Kim for more than four decades now!”
The first aircraft he ever worked on was a Piper Super Cub, but for Alaska, it was the Boeing 727-100. Over his four decades with Alaska, he’s worked full-time at the Seattle and Fairbanks stations, had a temporary stint in Anchorage [while based in Fairbanks] and worked vacation relief for Prudhoe Bay.
In 1984, Louie transferred to Seattle working the heavy check, then the flight line. That year was memorable for Louie – in May, he did the ground handling and marshaled in Air Force 1, Air Force 2 and Pope John Paul II’s aircraft in Fairbanks.
“The Alitalia DC-10 was the Pope’s aircraft,” said Louie. “I took the pictures with just an old pocket camera, but you’d never get that close today. Of course, we were screened to be working on the airfield that day for sure!”
Nearly 15 years later, he helped organize the drive for AMFA representation for technicians and related crafts and served in various local officer positions before being elected to the National Executive Council and climbing the ranks.
But of all the moments during his career, the biggest highlight came on June 1, 2019. Exactly 40 years to the day when Louie started at Alaska, his son Forrest K. worked his very first day as an A&P technician after getting awarded the bid a couple of days prior. “How cool is that?” said Louie. “We couldn’t have planned that if we’d tried.”
In 1984, Louie transferred to Seattle working the heavy check, then the flight line. That year was memorable for Louie – in May, he did the ground handling and marshaled in Air Force 1, Air Force 2 and Pope John Paul II’s aircraft in Fairbanks.
Today, Louie works in the Interior Shop in the Seattle hangar and is nearing 43 years with the company. When asked if he was aiming for the 50-year milestone pin, he smiled and said, “There are far too many adventures to be had! I’m fortunate to have started my career young and looking forward to the next adventure with my wife Debbie, who is a retired Alaska Airlines flight attendant of 34 years.”
1987: Louie, pictured with his wife Debbie, now a retired Alaska Airlines flight attendant.
John B. — Juneau Line Avionics Technician, joined Alaska in January 1982
Before John B. was hired by Alaska in January 1982 as a Line Avionics Technician on the graveyard shift in Anchorage, he had been working on avionics systems for the Air Force at Elmendorf AFB. When he was hired, he was in aircraft maintenance school to obtain his A&P license.
The first aircraft John worked on was a 727-200, and while in Anchorage, he worked on the 737-200, MD-80’s, 707’s and a Russian Aeroflot aircraft. Throughout his career, John has maintained aircraft for American Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, Continental Airlines and Aeroflot Airlines.
After 13 years in Anchorage, John moved to Juneau for a change and to be closer to the wealth of outdoor activities the Southeast has to offer. In Juneau, John not only handled avionics but took on many duties alongside his team.
I like doing it all, and the technicians in Juneau are a great bunch to work with. We’re like a big family here, and I mean that in more ways than one!” said John. “In fact, my son received his A&P license and became part of the Juneau maintenance team.”
Eight years later, his family headed to sunnier skies in Phoenix but the shift in climates took John a while to get used to. “I was on graveyard shift for a few years and it was difficult to sleep during the day with so much sunlight and heat, but it was a bit more manageable when I moved to swing shift (still hot though!).”
John and his family spent 12 years in Phoenix before the pull of grandkids drew him back to Juneau. Today, he works with his son on dayshift handling avionics and general maintenance duties. He says he wouldn’t have it any other way (except he wishes Juneau had a Taco Bell).
Plan your global getaway this summer with Alaska’s 20+ international airline partners
Discover the world with our oneworld® Alliance members and Global Partner airlines, all while earning or redeeming Alaska Mileage Plan™ miles for traveling to your favorite destinations.
As our guests travel the world again, Alaska Mileage Plan members can earn and redeem miles with some of the world’s best airlines.
As the newest member of the oneworldⓇ Alliance, Alaska and its Global Partners are proud to help you safely reach more than 1,000* destinations in more than 170 countries and territories, including amazing destinations like the Maldives, Helsinki, London and beyond!
Here are a few of the possibilities of where Mileage Plan members can fly internationally:
AER LINGUS
146 destinations With gateways in Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Seattle, San Francisco, New York and more, Mileage Plan members can earn miles travelling to Ireland, Rome, Amsterdam and other spectacular places throughout Europe.
AIR TAHITI
9 countries/territories Who hasn’t dreamed of visiting Bora Bora? With gateways in Seattle and Los Angeles, Mileage Plan members earn miles traveling to French Polynesia, Paris and more.
AMERICAN AIRLINES
350 destinations 50 countries/territories We’vWith gateways in Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia and Washington D.C., members earn Mileage Plan miles traveling to Madrid, Dublin, Prague and more.
BRITISH AIRWAYS
200 destinations 80 countries/territories West Coast gateways through Seattle, San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles, San Diego, and Vancouver B.C. (and soon Portland!) provide Mileage Plan members with connections throughout Europe and beyond via London.
CATHAY PACIFIC
90 destinations 35 countries/territories West Coast gateways in San Francisco, Vancouver and Los Angeles give Mileage Plan members connections throughout Asia via Hong Kong, with Cathay Pacific.
CONDOR AIRLINES
726 destinations Through gateways in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Portland, Phoenix, Seattle, Las Vegas, and Vancouver, Mileage Plan members can travel to Germany and connect to over 60 destinations throughout Europe.
EL AL ISRAEL AIRLINES
With U.S. gateways such as Los Angeles, members earn Mileage Plan miles flying nonstop to Tel Aviv.
FIJI AIRWAYS
21 destinations 13 countries/territories Gateways in San Francisco and Los Angeles will take you to Fiji and beyond with connections to New Zealand, Australia and the South Pacific.
FINNAIR
150 destinations 45 countries/territories Earn and Redeem your Mileage Plan miles on Finnair including non-stop service from Los Angeles to Helsinki and beginning on June 1, 2022, Seattle to Helsinki.
HAINAN AIRLINES
51 destinations 28 countries/territories Plan a visit to an unrestored section of the Great Wall of China or take a short train ride to peaceful Suzhou offers a welcome respite from busy Shanghai.
IBERIA
135 destinations 47 countries/territories Discover an ensemble of historic capitals and exceptional beaches earning Alaska Mileage Plan miles along the way from gateways in Los Angeles and San Francisco.
ICELANDAIR
Through gateways in Portland and Seattle, Mileage Plan members can travel to Iceland and connect to over 20 destinations throughout Europe.
JAPAN AIRLINES
80 destinations 20 countries/territories West Coast gateways in Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego bring you to Tokyo (Haneda and Narita) as well as Los Angeles to Osaka, with connections throughout Japan and Asia.
KOREAN AIR
Mileage Plan members can connect with Korean Air in Seattle, Los Angeles and San Francisco.
LATAM AIRLINES
LATAM Airlines serves destinations throughout South America, including Chile, Peru, Colombia and Argentina.
MALAYSIA AIRLINES
55 destinations 17 countries/territories Experience the rich diversity of Southern Asia and earn Alaska Mileage Plan miles along the way.
QANTAS
80 destinations 20 countries/territories Mileage Plan members can book Qantas flights to visit places like Australia and New Zealand from Dallas, Honolulu, Los Angeles, San Francisco and more.
QATAR AIRWAYS
200 destinations 100 countries/territories From the West Coast, fly with our partner Qatar Airways and enjoy nonstop service from Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle. From the East Coast, fly to Doha from Atlanta, Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, Chicago, Washington D.C., and more.
RAVN ALASKA
12 destinations Ravn brings you the rugged beauty of the great state of Alaska.
ROYAL AIR MORAC
105 destinations 51 countries/territories From New York or Washington D.C., explore the ancient beauty of Casablanca and endless souks of Marrakech while earning miles through Alaska Mileage Plan.
ROYAL JORDANIAN
45 destinations 30 countries/territories Take in the marvel of Petra and other jewels of the Middle East while earning miles with Alaska Mileage Plan.
SINGAPORE AIRLINES
62 destinations 32 countries/territories West Coast gateways San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Seattle give Mileage Plan members connections throughout Asia with Singapore Airlines.
SRILANKAN AIRLINES
111 destinations 48 countries/territories Experience Sri Lanka through its majestic wildlife and serene tea estates while earning Alaska Mileage Plan miles.
It’s not often we get a love letter like this. We just had to share.
For Carrie, a long-time guest, Alaska Airlines was more than just a way to work. Our airline was a means for her to continue her career, after moving to Idaho. A way to create family memories with her kids’ first flights. And a way to stay connected with her family, attending weddings, graduations and funerals.
Creating meaningful connections and fond memories is what we strive for every day. For Carrie, we created a lifetime of them. Read her letter below:
