Starting this fall, we’re adding nonstop routes from San Diego and Los Angeles, as well as offering our largest Southern California schedule in recent years
Alaska Airlines is expanding service at two of its major hubs in Southern California with new routes and additional capacity to popular West Coast destinations as part of the carrier’s ongoing commitment to growth in the state.
Starting this fall, we’re adding our 39th nonstop destination from San Diego with service to Las Vegas. We’re also starting new service between Los Angeles and Pasco, as well as bringing back guest favorite Los Angeles to Reno. Guests can now book these new, nonstop routes on alaskaair.com with service beginning Oct. 1, 2024.
We’re also proud to announce we’re adding more flights to destinations we already serve out of Los Angeles International Airport, increasing capacity by more than 25%, including to Boise, Medford, Portland, San Jose, Santa Rosa and Seattle.
As the only airline based on the West Coast, we’re committed to growth in Southern California, and I’m excited that we will offer our largest schedule out of the region in recent years; with our new services from Los Angeles to both Reno and Pasco as well as increased options to the destinations our guests visit most frequently. This new schedule also solidifies our title as the airline serving the most nonstop destinations from San Diego with our new service to Las Vegas,” said Neil Thwaites, regional vice president of California at Alaska Airlines.
“We are pleased to see Alaska Airlines continue to grow at San Diego International Airport and offer new routes to destinations across the country,” said Kimberly Becker, president and CEO of San Diego County Regional Airport Authority. “This new nonstop route to Las Vegas will offer yet another option for Southern Californians to travel to this city of lights and entertainment while providing Nevadans easy access to our beaches and sunshine in San Diego.”
In Los Angeles, we’ll start to fly our expanded schedule on Oct. 1, 2024 when we’ll offer the most daily flights to West Coast destinations of any airline from LAX.
“LAX looks forward to new routes and expanded services from Alaska Airlines, adding to their existing robust portfolio of flight offerings to and from our airport,” said Doug Webster, interim chief operations and maintenance officer at Los Angeles World Airports. “We are grateful for the opportunity to continue to grow our partnership with Alaska Airlines and are pleased to see their commitment to offer our guests a variety of travel options to meet their needs.”
All our guests across our expanding network can take advantage of a premium travel experience on their next Alaska flight. We are the West Coast’s premier airline offering our flyers the most legroom in First Class* and Premium Class; no change fees; multiple fare offerings; the most generous loyalty program with Mileage Plan with the fastest path to elite status; 30 global partners; and West Coast food and beverage on board. We’re also making it easier for our guests to buy tickets with our domestic and global partners directly at alaskair.com.
* Out of any U.S. airline excluding lie-flat seats
Cultivating community and giving back: Alaska Airlines’ commitment to care for Hawaiʻi
On a warm, overcast morning, a group of volunteers from Alaska Airlines came together on the lush grounds of Ka Papa Loʻi ʻO Punaluʻu to celebrate Earth Day by tending taro patches. More than 20 Hawaiʻi-based Alaska team members and their families gathered in the spirit of mālama ʻāina – caring for and honoring the land – at the three-acre agricultural site nestled in a rural community on Oʻahu’s windward coast.
“It’s really exciting,” said Ashlyn Onaga, Honolulu Station Supervisor. “It’s my first time here—I’ve wanted to do something like this for a while to give back to the community and help our ʻāina (land).”
The taro plant, known as kalo in the Hawaiian language, holds special significance in Native Hawaiian culture. Kalo was brought to Hawaiʻi by the first voyagers to reach the islands. In ancient moʻolelo (storytelling), kalo was part of the creation story, nourishing all Hawaiians. Tending to the plants and the loʻi (patches) they grow in is part of a reciprocal relationship between land and people.
In observance of Earth Day, a group of Alaska Airlines team members and their families tended taro patches at Ka Papa Lo‘i ʻO Punaluʻu
Shannon Cheng and Ashlyn Onaga shape mounds of soil protecting young kalo plants.
The University of Hawaiʻi, in partnership with Kamehameha Schools, maintains Ka Papa Lo‘i ʻO Punaluʻu. Dozens of plants grow in irrigated wetland patches, connected by a flowing stream. The restoration of the loʻi and streamflow also led to the return of native birds and other plants and animals. Ka Papa Lo‘i ʻO Punaluʻu welcomes volunteers several weekends a month to help clear invasive plants, maintain the streamflow, and care for the growing kalo.
Joshua Mateo clears debris from the streambed, which helps to maintain water flow to the kalo patches.The Padilla ‘ohana remove weeds growing around kalo plants
Having volunteers working with the loʻi and the kalo is really important to normalize these experiences,” said Ryse Akiu, who helps to manage Ka Papa Loʻi ʻO Punaluʻu. “It gives people an opportunity to build pilina (connection) and relationships, not only with Punaluʻu and all the things that exist here but also with each other.”
“Laulima is a word that we use, meaning cooperation and teamwork, and that’s what we do through loʻi work,” Akiu continued. “We have to work together to accomplish some of these huge tasks.”
This spirit of laulima is also at the heart of Alaska Airlines’ ongoing partnership with Kanu Hawaii. This nonprofit organization started Volunteer Month Hawai‘i, which is observed throughout April.
“‘Kanu’ in Hawaiian means ‘to plant,’” said Keone Kealoha, Executive Director of Kanu Hawaii. “Our aim is to plant seeds of responsibility and community today to foster positive change for tomorrow.”
Founded by 40 individuals concerned about preserving the community spirit and ‘aloha’ they grew up with, Kanu Hawaii has evolved into a vast network, hosting the largest volunteer opportunity platform in the state.
“Alaska Airlines gave us our first sponsorship, our first major donation, and they continue to innovate,” said Kealoha. He added that Alaska’s work with Kanu is, “not just a hat tip or nod to a good idea. It’s a gateway to a deeper commitment and promise to our kids and our place.”
In 2018, Alaska was the first major business in the visitor industry to sign on as a sponsor of what was then Volunteer Week Hawai‘i, a local celebration of National Volunteer Week. Today, the partnership continues with Alaska helping to promote the ‘Pledge To Our Keiki’, inspired by similar global commitments, to advocate for a sustainable and inclusive future for Hawai‘i’s children.
Since its launch, thousands of people have signed the pledge, which Alaska promotes via pre-trip materials and digital platforms.
“The pledge is a statement – it’s about awareness,” said Kealoha. “But we want to make it easy for people to actionize the pledge, so we’ve connected it to volunteer activities, in person, virtually, or remotely.”
For visitors to Hawai‘i who want to take action in support of the pledge, Kanu Hawaii recently collaborated with the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority to launch the Mālama Hawai‘i Volunteer Dashboard. This online tool allows visitors to search for local volunteer opportunities tailored to their interests and the location and dates of their trip.
For our team working at Ka Papa Lo‘i ʻO Punaluʻu, the experience was an opportunity to connect with each other and strengthen their ties to the community.
Volunteers link arms and drag their feet through the rich loʻi soil to propel water flowDavid Beyer, Director of Risk Management, and his son Chandler
It’s important to take care of our planet,” said sixth-grader Chandler Beyer, son of David Beyer, director of risk management at Alaska. “We can help preserve our planet and preserve everything we have for future generations to come.”
Travel Math: How your spending habits actually earn you travel perks
First, there was the trend, ‘girl math.’ Then, we saw ‘boy math’ take off. Even dogs got in on the equation! Now, we give you: travel math. It’s a playful concept that’s grounded in the very latest consumer insights where “the math” justifies the purchase, all for the sake of indulging in a little treat.
We know travelers are using credit card rewards and miles to book their travel and to stretch their dollars, especially Gen Z and Millennials. So, next time you want to book that flight or buy that pair of shoes with your Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® card, we say go for it. Because you’ll earn valuable miles. And of course—travel math.
Do you want to hit Alaska’s elite status even faster? Get the boots.
✨ New this year: A faster way to earn status through your Alaska Airlines credit card. Throughout 2024, for every $10,000 you spend on purchases in 2024, you’ll automatically earn 4,000 Elite Qualifying Miles (EQMs) (up to 20,000 EQMs total).* Learn more.
With elite status, you get a range of benefits designed to enhance your travel experience. Elite perks include:
Priority boarding
Complimentary upgrades to First Class or Premium Class when available
The specific benefits you receive depend on your elite status level within our Mileage Plan program (tiers include MVP, MVP Gold and MVP Gold 75K).
Buy surf gear to earn miles for your Maui trip.
Rack up miles every time you make a purchase with your Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® card—it’s that easy!
With the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® card, your purchases = miles:
3 miles for every dollar spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases (flights, inflight purchases, Lounge).
2 miles for every $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging station, local transit (including ride share), cable, and select streaming services purchases.
1 mile per dollar spent on all other purchases.
You’ll also earn Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ every year after qualifying purchases.* This popular benefit allows a cardholder to bring a companion on a round-trip domestic flight for $99 (plus taxes and fees).
Buy the bag, check it for free as a cardholder.
The Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® card grants you a first checked bag free for you and up to 6 guests on your reservation paid for with your card.
Plus, cardholders can get priority boarding in Group C (even with a Saver fare) on Alaska flights when you pay for your flight with your card.
Learn more about the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® Card
Alaska’s Famous $99 Companion Fare (plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year. Valid on all Alaska Airlines flights booked on alaskaair.com.
Check your first bag free on every Alaska flight purchased with this card and up to six guests traveling on the same reservation.
Priority boarding in Group C (even with a Saver fare).
3x miles on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases, such as inflight food and beverages.
2x miles on eligible gas, EV charging station, cable, streaming services, and local transit (including rideshare) purchases.
1 mile per dollar spent on all other purchases.
20% back on inflight purchases such as food and drinks and $100 off an annual Alaska Lounge+ Membership when you pay with your Alaska card.
10% rewards bonus on all miles earned from card purchases if you have an eligible Bank of America® account.
Terms & Conditions
*Earn 4,000 elite-qualifying miles (maximum of 20,000) that count toward elite status qualification if you make any combination of purchase transactions totaling at least $10,000 (exclusive of any fees, such as the annual fee) that post to eligible Alaska Airlines Visa consumer and business cards from January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024. Returns, credits and adjustments to this card will be deducted from purchases, even if this card was not the original payment method. Cash Advances and Balance Transfers are not considered purchases and do not apply for purposes of this offer. If a cardholder has multiple Alaska Airlines Visa consumer and business credit card accounts linked to one Mileage Plan account, purchases made with those cards can be combined to reach the $10,000 spend requirement. One individual can only earn a maximum of 20,000 elite-qualifying miles via this campaign, even if they hold multiple Alaska Airlines Visa cards. Allow 8-12 weeks from qualifying for the elite qualifying miles to be posted to your Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan. To qualify for this offer, your credit card account must be open with active charging privileges. Bank of America is not responsible for fulfillment of this elite qualifying miles offer and posting of miles directly to your Alaska Mileage Plan account. Elite qualifying miles will not appear on your credit card statement. Elite-qualifying miles count toward elite status qualification only for calendar year 2025, are non-redeemable and cannot be used toward award travel.
** $99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23 after making at least $6,000 in purchases within the anniversary year. Terms and conditions apply. Visit MyAlaskaCard.com to learn more.
This credit card program is issued and administered by Bank of America, N.A. Visa and Visa Signature are registered trademarks of Visa International Service Association and are used by the issuer pursuant to license from Visa U.S.A., Inc.The Contactless Symbol and Contactless Indicator are trademarks owned by and used with permission of EMVCo, LLC
Bank of America is a registered trademark of Bank of America Corporation.
Alaska Air Group reports first quarter 2024 results
Achieved record first quarter operating revenue of $2.2 billion
Ratified new agreement with AMFA-represented employees
SEATTLE — Alaska Air Group (NYSE: ALK) today reported financial results for the first quarter ending March 31, 2024, and provided outlook for the second quarter ending June 30, 2024.
I want to recognize Alaska’s employees for their uncompromising prioritization of safety, for taking great care of our guests, and for delivering strong performance in the first quarter,” said CEO Ben Minicucci. “Despite significant challenges to start the year our results have far exceeded initial expectations. Thanks to thoughtful capacity planning, network optimization, and diligent cost control, we are well positioned to carry our strong performance into the second quarter and beyond.”
Impact of Flight 1282:
Air Group’s first quarter operation and results were significantly impacted by Flight 1282 in January and the Boeing 737-9 MAX grounding which extended into February. The Company has received $162 million in initial cash compensation from Boeing to address the financial damages incurred during the first quarter.
Financial Results:
Reported net loss for the first quarter of 2024 under Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) of $132 million, or $1.05 per share, compared to a net loss of $142 million, or $1.11 per share, for the first quarter of 2023.
Reported net loss for the first quarter of 2024, excluding special items and mark-to-market fuel hedge accounting adjustments, of $116 million, or $0.92 per share, compared to a net loss of $79 million, or $0.62 per share, for the first quarter of 2023.
Repurchased 561,086 shares of common stock for approximately $21 million in the first quarter.
Generated $292 million in operating cash flow for the first quarter.
Held $2.3 billion in unrestricted cash and marketable securities as of March 31, 2024.
Ended the quarter with a debt-to-capitalization ratio of 47%, within the target range of 40% to 50%.
Operational Updates:
Agreement to purchase Hawaiian Airlines for $18 per share was approved by Hawaiian shareholders. The proposed combination remains subject to regulatory approval.
Ratified a five-year collective bargaining agreement with approximately 1,000 Alaska Airlines employees represented by AMFA.
Completed inspections of all 737-9 MAX aircraft and returned the fleet to service in February.
Enhanced quality oversight program at the Boeing production facility to validate the work and quality of our aircraft as they progress through the manufacturing process.
Received two E175 aircraft during the quarter, bringing the total in the Horizon fleet to 43.
Commercial Updates:
Launched partnership with Bilt Rewards, which adds Alaska’s Mileage Plan as a transfer partner and later in 2024 will allow Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® cardholders to earn 3x miles when paying rent via Bilt.
Announced growth plans out of Portland to provide guests with more travel options, including 25% increased capacity and a new daily nonstop flight to Atlanta, beginning later this year.
Announced new daily nonstop service between Santa Rosa and Las Vegas, which will be Air Group’s seventh destination from Sonoma County.
Introduced Alaska Access, a monthly subscription program for price-conscious travelers that offers Wi-Fi vouchers, early access to sales, and a personalized fare page.
In partnership with local organizations, Alaska Airlines flew more than 60 BIPOC high school juniors from Seattle and Portland to tour historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs)
Last month, we flew 60 BIPOC students from the Pacific Northwest to tour colleges in Atlanta, Georgia. The Atlanta area is home to many HBCUs, including Morehouse, Spelman, Clark Atlanta, Morris Brown, and Fort Valley State. Some students continued to tour additional schools along the East Coast, including Tuskegee University, Alabama State, Howard, and more. Given the absence of HBCUs in the Northwest, these trips inspire students to experience the cultural richness and opportunities offered by HBCUs.
While at the schools, students spoke with admissions counselors, current students and administrators about the importance of going to college, the admissions process and financial aid.
These college tours wouldn’t have been possible without our longstanding partnership with UNCF and Self Enhancement, Inc. (SEI).
“The HBCU tour exposes and highlights the opportunities for our young people to strive for higher education. Seeing a version of themselves on these campuses inspires and excites them. Our students come back more focused and believing that they can achieve anything that they put their energy and effort into. Based on financial limitations, SEI absolutely could not do this tour without the support of Alaska Airlines.” – Anthony Deloney, Director of Development at Self Enhancement, Inc.
The students flew on Our Commitment aircraft, which supports equity and education in partnership with UNCF and features 14 children, grandchildren and mentees of Alaska Airlines’ employees.
The Alaska airlines sendoff alone was probably the best thing I’ve experienced at SEI, and I’ve been here 27 years.” – Tamra Hickok, Director of Program Innovation at Self Enhancement, Inc.
Over two decades of collaboration with UNCF
UNCF’s mission is to build a robust and nationally recognized pipeline of underrepresented students who become highly qualified college graduates. Alaska Airlines has been a proud partner with UNCF for more than 18 years – donating more than 20 million miles to fly students to attend college tours. We invite our guests to donate miles to UNCF through our CARE Miles program to support this effort.
43 students fly to HBCUs with Alaska Airlines, taking “Our Commitment” to new heights with UNCF
April 25, 2023
This year’s spring break tour followed last year’s inaugural experience with the organization.
“This year’s UNCF HBCU College Tour revealed the continued support and exposure our students need to succeed. From shyness and uncertainty to lifelong relationships, learning about HBCUs, and developing cultural bonds, the impact of this tour truly cannot be expressed in words! Our week wasn’t just about visiting colleges. Students got to learn from our Portfolio Project alumni who attend the Atlanta University Center, facilitate discussions and activities, meet and spend time with local Atlanta professionals, witness historical monuments and most importantly, build confidence in their racial identities. UNCF believes in creating experiences that help students not only get to college but also discover their gifts and interests and develop leadership qualities.””
– Briana Nelson, UNCF Success Facilitator
SEI & Alaska help move Portland forward
Self Enhancement, Inc. (SEI) is a pillar in the North Portland community— providing academic support and services for Black students and their families. SEI’s strength is in its ability to meet the complex needs of the children and families it serves, including helping people to overcome cultural, educational and economic barriers. Alaska has been a steadfast supporter of SEI’s annual fundraiser for over a decade. However, this year marked a significant milestone as it was the first time we extended support to SEI’s annual HBCU tour.
SEI HBCU tour stops included Tuskegee University, Alabama State University, Clark University, Morehouse College, Spelman College, Johnson C Smith University, North Carolina A&T University, and Howard University. Hear Janiya’s experience at the tour and how each one impacted her college journey!
Experiencing the eclipse at 35,000 feet: How two Alaska Airlines dispatchers made it happen
Guests aboard Alaska Airlines Flight #322 from San Diego to Dulles were treated to front-row seats for Monday’s total eclipse. Guests donned eclipse glasses and peered through their windows to witness this rare celestial event, which won’t happen again in the United States until 2044.
But the timing was no coincidence.
“This was the first I had piloted during a solar eclipse, and I actually retire in 2040, so being in the front row was right at the top of the list for some of the best experiences I’ve had in the sky,” said Scott Bunch, Alaska Airlines first officer for Flight #322. “It was great teamwork from everybody involved. We had excellent dispatching that provided a route to keep the aircraft on the path of totality. Not only did we go through the darkness from the moon passing in front of the sun, but we also stayed in it. I was ecstatic.”
Solar eclipse chasers had long booked their flights along the path of full totality to watch from the ground. Many of Alaska’s flights to Austin, Dallas, San Antonio and Mazatlán, Mexico had sold out in advance. To respond to the increase in demand, we added flights to Texas and Mexico—destinations that were projected to have the longest duration of totality.
Video by Kane Andrade & Ingrid Barrentine
How we made it happen.
Unlike in 2017, when Alaska chased the Great American Eclipse with the help of a team of pilots and an astronomer, there was no elaborate flight planned out to give guests a view from the sky.
When excitement began building ahead of the April 8 event from guests and media, Joe Demory, director of dispatch at Alaska Airlines, started looking into which flights we already had on the schedule that would likely give guests the best seats in the house.
“We started with basic research by comparing our flight schedule with the eclipse path,” said Demory. “I was able to identify two flights out of San Diego—one to Boston and the other to Dulles—that would give us the best chance of following the eclipse path for the longest period of time.”
But Demory knew weather, air traffic control (ATC) and other factors out of our control could delay the flights and miss the eclipse altogether.
Knowing guests would be disappointed if they didn’t get to watch the moon obscuring the view of the sun, Demory asked veteran Alaska chief dispatchers Ed Fischer and Eric Juchartz to help plan the best flight path for the pilots that day.
Chief Dispatcher Ed FischerChief Dispatcher Eric Juchartz
Planning the path to totality.
“We had a small window of time to make this all work, especially for full totality that everyone wanted to see—you want to watch the full eclipse, not the partial,” said Juchartz. “I started with Google Earth, which had an eclipse overlay, so that was kind of cool.”
It took him about an hour to use different technology and software to map out the best route for both flights. It would mean flying farther south than typical flights to Dulles and Boston.
On the day of the eclipse, Fischer (who used to navigate aircraft for the U.S. Airforce) reviewed Juchartz’s flight paths and made small adjustments back at Dispatch. In his role as dispatcher, Fischer communicated with our pilots the entire flight to make sure they got to their destination safely and didn’t miss the total solar eclipse.
“We were probably going to intercept it somewhere around Indianapolis is what I guessed, and it was going to be dependent on how strong the winds were and when we actually took off,” said Fischer. “I emailed the crew a list of the eclipse times along their route so they could see about what time they were going to be at different points and then pass it on to our passengers.”
Dispatch makes it happen for every flight.
Alaska Airlines dispatchers played an indispensable role in orchestrating this special flight for our guests while also overseeing the coordination of all our daily flight operations, ensuring unwavering commitment to safety, efficiency, and adherence to regulations for every flight.
“It was right over Missouri, just shy of the border of Illinois, that we actually got the full eclipse, it was awesome,” said Nick Mentzen, captain at Alaska Airlines, who piloted flight 322. “ATC gave us permission to fly at a lower altitude and do a series of ‘s-turns’ to give our guests on both sides of the plane to get a view, first to the right then followed by a turn to the left and that’s when we actually got the full eclipse.”
It just goes to show the level of expertise and professionalism within our team; whether people realize it or not, every flight is receiving that oversight from our dispatch work group to make sure our guests get from their origin to destination safely and efficiently,” Demory said. “Monday was our opportunity to shine and highlight some of the things that we do behind the scenes on a daily basis.”
Wearing eclipse glasses gifted by Alaska, guests watched the entire event unfold from their seats above the earth. The level of excitement was electric.
Alaska Air Group announces webcast of first-quarter 2024 financial results
Alaska Air Group Inc., the parent company of Alaska Airlines Inc. and Horizon Air Industries Inc., will hold its quarterly conference call to discuss 2024 first quarter financial results at 11:30 a.m. EDT/ 8:30 a.m. PDT, Thursday, April 18, 2024. 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.
Flying a hero: When “Gramps” needed one final ride, his family reached out to this Alaska Airlines pilot
Alaska Airlines flies one of the last Pearl Harbor survivors to his final resting place
Richard Clyde Higgins, a chief petty officer in the Navy, was in his bunk at Pearl Harbor in the early morning hours of Dec. 7, 1941, when the first bombs fell. Jumping to grab his pants and looking outside he saw a crater about 7-feet deep that had once been a parked aircraft. He and his buddies worked to move airplanes away from the others that were on fire as the waves of bombing continued.
It was to be a day our country would never forget.
An everyday hero
Higgins was one of the lucky ones. He often said he wasn’t a hero; the heroes were those who never came home. He went on to have a family, become a grandfather and even a great-grandfather. He was “Gramps,” known for telling a good story and a smile that would light up a room. He even had his own Instagram account “quarantine chats with gramps,” where he told stories about his time in the service and earned a loyal following.
Higgins passed away on March 19, at the age of 102. He was one of the few surviving service members from the Pearl Harbor attack. Newspapers from New York City to Bend, Oregon where he lived, told his story.
But what they didn’t share was how Higgins and his family, in his final days, had reached out to an unlikely friend for a favor. The friend was Alaska Airlines Captain Adrienne Grechman. And the favor—Could Gramps hitch a final ride home?
A chance meeting
Grechman had met Higgins three years ago, rather serendipitously on a flight from Honolulu. As captain of the flight, she was at the door greeting guests when Higgins, then 100, came onboard. Noting his weathered garrison cap perched proudly on his head and the ready smile, she inquired about his trip. Yep, he was a Pearl Harbor Survivor headed home after being an honored guest at the 80th Anniversary Memorial.
Capt. Grechman and Naval Chief Petty Officer Higgins in 2021 flying home after being an honored guest at the Pearl Harbor 80th anniversary commemorative ceremony.
Grechman, whose father served and whose husband (also an Alaska pilot) is a former Navy F-18 pilot, was overcome with emotion. She couldn’t let Higgins’ flight pass without some celebration, so she rallied Alaska Airlines employees in Los Angeles to see that Higgins arrival at LAX was fit for a hero.
A friendship was born and Grechman kept in touch with Higgins and his family over the years. So, when she got the call to fly him to his final resting place, she didn’t hesitate.
It’s part of who we are at Alaska Airlines to honor service members like Mr. Higgins,” Grechman said. “On that morning at Pearl Harbor, he was just a 20-year old boy. He became a man who spent his life reminding us of what it truly means to serve. Today, is truly the honor of a lifetime for me.”
Despite the sunny day in Portland, the atmosphere was solemn
Grechman arrived at Portland airport early Saturday morning, accompanying Higgin’s family. After her flight check onboard, she joined the family on the tarmac, alongside Alaska’s special Honoring Those Who Serve aircraft.
First responders from the Port of Portland Police, Fire and Air National Guard teams lined the tarmac, their emergency vehicle lights flashing in reverence as members of our esteemed Fallen Soldier team began a solemn ceremony. Clad in safety vests, the all-volunteer group, delivered Higgins’ casket to the waiting aircraft via a special cart draped in an American flag and burnished with insignias from five branches of the armed services.
As the flag-draped casket moved slowly up the belt, there was a moment of silence in Higgins’ honor.
There was not a dry eye on the runway.
Honoring those who serve
Upon the flight’s arrival at Los Angeles, the aircraft was greeted by a water cannon salute from airport firetrucks. Higgins’ casket was carried off the aircraft to a coach parked next to an identical flag-draped cart. Designed and crafted by Alaska maintenance and engineering employees as part of its Fallen Soldier Program, the cart and the solemn ceremony, have set an industry standard for honoring deceased military members.
Dan Brosch, an Alaska aircraft maintenance technician, who has hosted dozens of such flights of fallen soldiers said that you never get used to it. The emotion is raw every time.
“There is no greater thing you can do for a fellow human and their loved ones than provide compassion, honor and dignity at the time of their death,” Brosch said.
Brosch presented special honor coins to Higgins family members, including four great-grandchildren gathered planeside—a small remembrance from Alaska’s Fallen Soldier team.
From there, the family traveled to a graveside service where Higgins was laid to rest next to his wife of 60 years, who had passed before him.
Higgins’ daughter Vicki, who was in awe of the day, said her dad, who was very humble, would have wondered why we made such a fuss. “But, he would have loved it,” she said.
Fair winds and following seas Chief Petty Officer Higgins.
Navigating sustainability in aviation – Join Base Chief Pilot JP Wilson for a journey through Alaska Airlines’ path to net zero carbon emissions by 2040
Alaska Airlines has always focused on running our business to care for all who depend on us, including our planet. As we head into Earth Month, we reflect on the impact of aviation on our planet and explore sustainable solutions for the future of air travel.
We’ve set goals to be the #1 most fuel-efficient U.S. airline, saving fuel through innovative technology, fuel-and emissions-saving practices, reliable operations, and more fuel-efficient airplanes. Other goals include reducing waste, replacing single-use plastics where we can, and supporting healthy ecosystems. And our long-term goal is a five-part path to net zero carbon emissions by 2040. We call the work toward these goals our EverGreen journey.
A key part of that journey is our effort to accelerate the adoption of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). SAF is a safe, certified drop-in fuel that is functionally equivalent to conventional jet fuel, meeting all jet fuel standards, while reducing carbon emissions by as much as 80% on a lifecycle basis.
Learn more about our efforts to mature this market and make SAF more affordable from our Portland Base Chief Pilot, JP Wilson. Watch below 👇
How are we approaching sustainability in aviation?
Full transcript
Hello everybody, I’m JP Wilson—Alaska Airlines’ Chief Pilot based in Portland, Oregon. As a pilot, I have a front row seat to how becoming a more sustainable airline can make a positive impact on our communities, our people, and our planet.
That’s why we’ve charted an ambitious path to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.
Over this video series, we’ll talk about our approach to accomplishing this goal through our “Four F’s” of sustainability: FLIGHTS, FLEET, FUEL and FUTURE.
So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.
First up, we have FLIGHTS. It should come as no surprise that this is the first area where we can make significant progress, right now. By enhancing efficiency at every level, such as crafting smarter flight routes, we can reduce our overall fuel consumption. And less fuel, means fewer emissions.
We’ve turned to FlyWays, an AI and machine learning program that gives our dispatchers the power to map new, more efficient routes—saving nearly thirteen-thousand metric tons of CO2 each year.
That’s equivalent to a whopping 1.3 million gallons of fuel!
The second “F” in our approach to sustainability is our FLEET.
We’re investing in the latest, most fuel-efficient aircraft possible with our newest fleet of aircraft that are a staggering 22% more fuel-efficient on a seat-by-seat basis than the aircraft they replace.
The third “F” is Fuel. More specifically, Sustainable Aviation Fuel, or SAF. It’s an alternative fuel source made from common waste, forest residue or even recaptured carbon that can cut emissions up to 80%. Eighty percent!
This transformative fuel is where we have the greatest opportunity to make the biggest impact to help reach our 2040 goals.
Not only are we already flying multiple routes using SAF, but we’re proud to have been the first domestic carrier to do so on a regular basis — starting all the way back in 2011. The faster the aviation industry can adopt and scale SAF, the faster we can lessen the environmental impact of flying.
And lastly, but certainly not least, is our last “F”: investing in our FUTURE. By partnering with today’s brilliant visionaries and innovators, we’re helping to develop the zero-emissions aircraft of tomorrow.
This includes our partnership with ZeroAvia, who are working on creating a hydrogen-powered aircraft to use for regional flying.
Once again, I’m JP Wilson. And thank you for joining me to learn more about Alaska Airlines’ approach to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.
See you next time when we talk more in depth about sustainable aviation fuel.
Welcome to Alaska Airlines.
What exactly is SAF & how is it made?
How can SAF scale and impact future sustainability?
Full transcript
In our last video we discussed Alaska Airlines’ “Four F’s” approach to sustainability. FLIGHTS, FLEET, FUEL, and FUTURE.
In this video, we’re going to dig deeper into our third “F”—FUEL. More specifically, Sustainable Aviation Fuel, or SAF.
For those just jumping in, I’m JP Wilson—Alaska Airlines’ Chief Pilot based in Portland, Oregon.
And I’m here to proudly share Alaska’s journey to becoming a greener, more sustainable airline for all.
When we think about sustainability as an airline, Sustainable Aviation Fuel rises to the top as our greatest opportunity in the near and medium-term to reach our ambitious goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.
So what makes SAF special compared to regular fuel?
Where traditional jetfuel is created from oil that puts new carbon into the atmosphere, SAF comes from recycled carbon. This means it takes existing trash and byproducts, even directly recaptured carbon, and gives them a second life—reducing lifecycle carbon emissions of fuel by up to 80%.
Simply put: Waste materials can be reused to help make air travel more sustainable. Crazy, I know!
Let’s talk about how Sustainable Aviation Fuel is made. It all starts with existing trash and waste materials known as “feedstocks”. These feedstocks include materials such as sugarcane crops, used cooking oil, forest residue, and recaptured carbon.
These feedstocks are collected, treated, and taken to a refinery where they are converted into fuel.
From there, this fuel can be mixed directly with traditional jet fuel in a plane. Best of all, it doesn’t require any change in existing aircraft infrastructure to use it. That’s why we call it “drop in fuel.” Because we can just drop it right in and mix it with traditional jet fuel.
The concept of drop in fuel is huge because we can start using it immediately without having to overhaul a system that could take years to put in place.
And did you know the way it reduces carbon isn’t from how the fuel is burned? It’s actually rooted in material that the fuel is made from, the production process, and how it is delivered to airplanes. That’s why we use the term “lifecycle” carbon emissions.
SAF offers a huge opportunity, but it doesn’t come without challenges as we try to scale.
In our next video, we’ll talk a bit more about the barriers to making SAF mainstream, and our plan to overcome those challenges. We’ll also address our broader focus on innovation and approach to navigating the future of sustainability as more innovations come to life.
Full transcript
Making air travel more sustainable isn’t something we can solve overnight.
The actions we take today across our operation will set us up for a more sustainable future that benefits not only our employees and guests, and the communities where we live and travel, but also the planet.
So as we continue to explore our “Four F’s” of sustainability: FLIGHTS, FLEET, FUEL, and FUTURE…
Let’s take a closer look at the future of aviation sustainability.
And a quick introduction for those new to the series, I’m JP Wilson—Alaska Airlines’ Chief Pilot based in Portland, Oregon.
To meet our ambitious goals and drive lasting change we’re focused on working with forward thinking partners, making investments in new technologies, driving supply chain innovations, and advocating for effective public policy.
We’re partnering with e-fuel startups, tech leaders, universities and scientists to develop additional paths to Sustainable Aviation Fuel while working to increase its availability on the West Coast.
For now, SAF remains the most promising path to meaningful change. That’s why we’re focusing on advancing the marketplace.
Our challenge today is that there is not enough SAF at a volume or price that can support the industry’s operational needs.
This has resulted in SAF accounting for less than 1% of the total aviation fuel supply.
The biggest opportunity for growing that number is growing awareness and investment. Through the help of government incentives and policy changes, SAF can become more available and less expensive, making it a mainstream solution.
We want guests to join our journey in creating collective awareness for SAF. With public support, we can move SAF from an emerging technology to another tool in our sustainability toolkit.
We’re also giving guests the option to help pay for SAF, you’ll find this option available when booking upcoming Alaska flights. It’s just another way to kickstart this important technology for our future.
Thanks for joining me on this journey as we flew through Alaska Airlines’ path to sustainability. Through our ambitious approach, we’re working tirelessly to become the first airline to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.
Our path to net-zero is clear, but we will continue evolving and innovating with our partners as we implement and discover exciting solutions.
Take care, and for everyone at Alaska Airlines, we hope to see you soon.
Photos by Ingrid Barrentine | Video by Karina Matias
Alaska Airlines had the tremendous honor of flying one of the last known Pearl Harbor survivors, Naval Chief Petty Officer Richard Clyde Higgins, to his final resting place today via Flight AS 1172 from Portland, Ore. (PDX) to Los Angeles (LAX). Chief Higgins was transferred to the aircraft by members of Alaska’s Fallen Solider Program team.
The flight was flown by Alaska Captain Adrienne Grechman. Captain Grechman was requested by the family to fly Chief Higgins to LAX after the two connected and stayed in touch after Captain Grechman flew him to Honolulu for the 80th anniversary of the attacks, as part of an Honor Flight.
Full media kit – including video of the ceremony – can be found:
Seattle becomes STARLUX’s third nonstop U.S. destination from Taipei with its world-class service and amenities; premier carrier is one of our newest global airline partners
One of Alaska Airlines’ newest global partners, STARLUX Airlines, announced today it will begin new nonstop service this summer between our hometown airport in Seattle and Taipei. STARLUX’s inaugural flight from Seattle is scheduled for Aug. 16. The airline will initially offer three flights weekly with connections to destinations across Asia. As an added convenience for our guests, STARLUX flights from the West Coast to Taipei can now be purchased directly at alaskaair.com, including the new Seattle flight.
STARLUX launched its inaugural transpacific service between Taipei and Los Angeles in April 2023. Then in December, STARLUX began service between Taipei and San Francisco. Los Angeles, San Francisco and Seattle are gateway airports for Alaska, allowing our guests to have convenient connectivity with STARLUX flights. Another big bonus: Our Mileage Plan members can earn and redeem miles on STARLUX.
We’re proud to be STARLUX’s first airline partner and excited about the possibilities for our guests with this premier international airline beginning service at our main hub in Seattle,” said Brett Catlin, vice president of loyalty, alliances and sales at Alaska Airlines. “STARLUX delivers an exceptional experience in all classes of service, but if you’re fortunate enough to fly in first or business class, prepare to be pampered.”
STARLUX provides an international gateway through its main hub in Taipei with connections to more than 20 destinations across Asia, including Bangkok, Thailand; Hanoi, Vietnam; Penang, Malaysia; Cebu, Philippines; Singapore; Macau and more than nine destinations in Japan.
“STARLUX’s broadened transpacific routes reaffirm our dedication to expanding our U.S. network and to elevating the travel experience for our fast-growing customer base,” said Glenn Chai, STARLUX CEO. “As a key economic and technological hub, Seattle is also steeped in diverse cultural influences and home to a thriving Asian community. Moreover, we have finally arrived at the hub of our partner Alaska Airlines. We believe STARLUX and Alaska Airlines will provide seamless service to travelers seeking to reach Asia. STARLUX looks forward to strengthening our connections between these major West Coast cities with Taipei and larger Asia, and to building bridges between these dynamic and vibrant regions.”
STARLUX will operate the transpacific route with its new-generation Airbus A350-900 aircraft configured in a four-class layout: First, business, premium economy and economy. Travelers in first and business classes enjoy a private space with a sliding door and seats with full-flat and Zero G mode for full relaxation. The extra-legroom premium economy section features a 40-inch Recaro seat with a leg rest and footrest bar. Economy class seats are equipped with leather headrests and a wide seat pitch.
Business Class on Starlux Airlines
Inflight service on STARLUX includes Taiwanese signature dishes and amenities prepared for passengers in all classes. STARLUX will be offering first and business guests a selection of the best top chef’s creations and local Taiwanese delicacies. The popular STARLUX signature dish yakiniku donburi is served on board. And to bring greater individuality to their air travel experience, all passengers can pre-order meals online so they can enjoy the meal they want.
Alaska is a member of the oneworld global alliance. With oneworld and our additional airline partners, our guests can earn and redeem miles all over the world through our highly acclaimed Mileage Plan program. Elite status on Alaska automatically matches tier status in oneworld so members can enjoy all the benefits that come with it right away.
