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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 Fischer
Chief 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.

Your Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan miles go farther with Global Getaways

Summary

Get savings of up to 50% on award redemptions to select international destinations

Our new streamlined award charts give a better idea of how many miles are needed to fly to and within regions of the world

It’s now easier to buy tickets with our domestic and global partners

Eager to get even more bang with your Mileage Plan miles? Alaska Airlines has just the ticket with Global Getaways. Starting today, we’re offering savings of up to 50% on award redemptions to select international destinations with us and our global partners. Mileage Plan members can redeem miles throughout April at alaskaair.com for reduced award travel from September through November to an amazing collection of locations.

Four times a year we’ll mix it up and have a new list of incredible places to visit while using fewer miles to get there. The theme as we kick off Global Getaways: Exotic, sunny beach escapes.

Empty hammock in the shade of palm trees on tropical Fiji

Overwater bungalows with best beach for snorkeling, Tahiti, Fren

Alaska Bali TamanTir Tagangga

These one-way redemptions can be enjoyed later this fall in economy and premium economy cabins with our various partner airlines:

Tahiti (French Polynesia): now starting at 20,000 miles instead of 30,000

Nadi (Fiji): now starting at 20,000 miles instead of 37,500

Nassau (Bahamas): now starting at 15,000 miles instead of 17,500

Zanzibar (Tanzania): now starting at 30,000 miles instead of 42,500

Malé (Maldives): now starting at 30,000 miles instead of 42,500

Bali/Denpasar (Indonesia): now starting at 30,000 miles instead of 42,500

That once-in-a-lifetime trip is even closer with our quarterly Global Getaways promotion for discounted award travel to fabulous, far-flung locales,” said Brett Catlin, vice president of loyalty, alliances and sales at Alaska Airlines. “We’re continuing to invest in making Mileage Plan the most rewarding loyalty program with the industry’s most valuable currency.”

– Brett Catlin

Vice President of Loyalty,Alliances and Sales
 Alaska Airlines

In March, we began rolling out our new award charts to provide improved simplicity, value, and availability for our guests who are looking to use their Mileage Plan miles for travel on our partners.

Staff Squard
Passenger Mobile
Staff Squard Mobile
Passenger Mobile

The streamlined charts give a better idea of how many miles are needed to fly to and within regions of the world:

Spend fewer miles: Partner award travel now starts as low as 4,500 miles one-way for short trips, down from 7,500 miles. More than 60% of nonstop economy and business class redemptions start at a lower price.

More choice: We’ve unlocked even more award flight availability, including additional options when connecting from an Alaska flight to a partner flight.

Move up a cabin: Premium economy seating with our partners now starts at just 30% more than an economy ticket.

Explore more: Get two destinations for the price of one by adding an international stopover to most itineraries at no additional cost.

We’re also making it easier for our guests to buy tickets with our domestic and global partners directly at alaskaair.com.

Thousands of flights can be purchased to more than 500 destinations across 24 oneworld and additional global partner airlines that include Air Tahiti Nui; Finnair; Iberia; Japan Airlines; Qantas; Qatar Airways; STARLUX Airlines and more. Tickets with our partners are available in all classes of service on our website

Japan Louange
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Cabin Crew
Old temple
Sea Side view

There are key benefits when purchasing tickets with our partner airlines directly at alaskaair.com:

When you fly a mile, you earn a mile with our partners and us*

You earn at least 100% of the miles flown as elite qualifying miles when flying with our partners and us* (which paves a quicker path to Mileage Plan MVP elite status)

All flights purchased with the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card at alaskaair.com earn three miles for every dollar spent – and that means partner flights, too.

Explore global getaways

*Saver or basic economy tickets are excluded.

The Alaska Airlines credit card 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.

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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. 

FOR MEDIA:

Download photo, b-roll & interviews here.

MEDIA KIT

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. 

Learn more

Alaska Airlines flies one of the last Pearl Harbor survivors to his final resting place

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:
MEDIA KIT

For additional information, please reach out to newsroom@alaskaair.com

Alaska Airlines welcomes STARLUX Airlines to Seattle, our hometown airport 

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. 

Alaska Airlines brings West Coast flair to premium food and beverage menu this spring 

We’re springing into the season with a fresh and chef-curated inflight menu carefully crafted to join our premium food and beverage line-up—launching this month! As the premier West Coast airline, we’re giving our dishes a West Coast flair with strong influences from Asian and Latin American cuisines. 

As always, the inspiration for creating our menu is based on our guests’ feedback and that’s exactly what we did when developing our spring offerings,” said Todd Traynor-Corey, managing director of guest products at Alaska Airlines. “This is a just a precursor to an exciting year ahead. We can’t wait to share what’s to come on our a premium food and beverage line-up.” 

In First Class, we’re offering meals inspired by dishes from around the world, while adding a West Coast flair, including Birria Beef and Ube Island Pancakes. In Premium Class and Main Cabin, we’re serving fresh salads including the Caul Me Maybe, which is a Mediterranean inspired Salad created in partnership with Seattle-based Evergreens.

Our newest menu is available now, complimentary in First Class on most flights 670 miles and above, and for purchase in Main Cabin on most flights 775 miles or more. 

Check out some of our newest dishes that are inspired by the West Coast:

First Class:  

BBQ Beef & Kimchi Rice  

Smoked BBQ beef burnt ends, served on a kimchi fried rice and topped with fresh green onions. 

Birria Beef  

Tender braised, boneless beef in consommé, marinated black beans and long grain rice, rich in cumin, tomato, and lime flavors. Topped with a fresh pico de gallo salsa.   

Thai Curry
(Vegan/Gluten Free)   

Authentic Thai green curry with coconut milk, ginger, garlic, lemongrass and kaffir lime; with coconut shoots, green papaya, Thai basil, and red chili with vegan meatballs made from heart of palm.  Served over steamed Jasmine rice.  

Tortellini
(to Hawaii only)   

Four-cheese tortellini pasta enrobed in a tangy miso sauce, served with roasted butternut squash, edamame, and fresh arugula.

Banana Bread French Toast    

French-toast style thick banana bread with a tamarind caramel sauce.  Served with creamy scrambled eggs, and pecan candied pork bacon.   

Island Pancakes
(to Hawaii only)    

Ube (purple sweet potato) pancakes with toasted shaved coconut, roasted pineapple, and grilled pork Portuguese sausage. Topped with guava & mint syrup.     

Premium Class & Main Cabin: 

Evergreens™ Caul Me Maybe Salad  

Mediterranean-Inspired Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing 
Roasted Cauliflower, Roasted Sweet Potato, Feta, Romaine, Spinach, Garbanzo Beans, Golden Raisins, Sunflower Seeds, Cilantro, Chermoula Sauce   

Evergreens™ Change of Greenery Salad   

A Spring Herby Salad with Green Goddess Dressing Chicken, Feta, Watermelon Radish, Jalapeno, Romaine, Mixed Greens, Cucumber, Pickled Red Onion, Sunflower Seeds  

Don’t forget we also just added our first brewed craft beer in a unique can. The ‘Cloud Cruiser’ is our newest IPA, which is brewed by Seattle-based Fremont Brewing® and made with the very best local ingredients. If you’re looking to celebrate happy hour without the  alcohol, check out our non-alcoholic beer made by Best Day Brewing®. 

Remember to use the pre-order option to choose your meal and have it conveniently delivered to your seat on your next flight. Pre-orders are available through the Alaska mobile app or through alaskaair.com from two weeks to 20 hours prior to your flight.  Learn more

Alaska Airlines statement on Boeing  

AS-logo-002

For nearly 60 years, Alaska Airlines has flown Boeing airplanes. We share more than a hometown with Boeing; we share a passion for flying and a commitment to safety. We know the people behind the planes, who have dedicated their careers over these decades to make air travel better and safer. Alaska Airlines is committed to Boeing, and we will do everything we can to contribute to the critical work under way to ensure excellence in production quality and safety.  

Alaska Airlines deepens commitment to Bay Area with new nonstop service between Santa Rosa/Sonoma County and Las Vegas

As the largest carrier at Sonoma County Airport since 2007, we’re now offering service to seven nonstop destinations

Alaska Airlines is deepening its commitment to the San Francisco Bay Area with convenient, nonstop service between California’s wine country and Las Vegas beginning this fall. The daily, year-round flight, which starts Oct. 1, is now the seventh nonstop destination from Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport.

By this fall, Alaska will operate 13 peak day departures, including nonstop service to Los Angeles, Burbank, Orange County, Seattle, Portland, San Diego and now Las Vegas. Tickets for all routes are now available for purchase at alaskaair.com.

We feel a deep connection with Santa Rosa—Alaska became the first carrier to bring commercial service to Sonoma County Airport nearly two decades ago—and we’ve remained the largest airline at STS serving nearly 2 million guests since then,” said Kirsten Amrine, vice president of network planning and revenue management at Alaska Airlines. “As the only airline serving all four Bay Area airports, including Santa Rosa, San Francisco, San Jose and Oakland, we can’t wait to connect guests between Santa Rosa and Las Vegas and have them experience our premium, award-winning service.”

“We are thrilled with the addition of service from Alaska Airlines to Las Vegas – this route signifies not only our commitment to providing convenient travel options, but also Alaska’s dedication to enhancing connectivity within our community,” said Jon Stout, airport manager at Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport. “With the expansion of Alaska’s options, we are not just opening up routes, we’re opening doors to new opportunities and experiences for our passengers.  We look forward to the success of this venture and the continued growth of our partnership with Alaska Airlines.”

“Las Vegas offers visitors a wide variety of unparalleled experiences and attractions, from world-class restaurants, A-list headliners and a full calendar of sporting events, there is always something new and exciting for travelers from the Northern California’s Wine Country to discover in Las Vegas,” said H. Fletch Brunelle, vice president of marketing for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. “We are excited to welcome Alaska Airlines’ newest nonstop service from Sonoma County to Las Vegas this fall.” 

When heading to Sonoma, Alaska’s guests can take advantage of its Wine Flies Free program, which debuted in 2007 to make it easier for travelers to bring home their favorite bottles of wine from Santa Rosa/Sonoma County.

Oftentimes, wineries are unable to ship cases directly or consumers are faced with costly shipping fees to transport wine. Alaska’s Wine Flies Free solves those challenges by offering each Mileage Plan member the ability to check an entire case – up to 12 bottles of wine – for free.

The new route between Santa Rosa/Sonoma and Las Vegas will be served by the Embraer 175 jet, an aircraft with window and aisle seating; there are no middle seats. Guests will enjoy award-winning service in a three-class cabin that includes First Class and Premium Class; hundreds of free movies and TV shows available for viewing on personal devices; free texting on most flights; and Wi-Fi connectivity for purchase.  

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Introducing Alaska Access: A new subscription service by Alaska Airlines to save on travel planning and costs 

Discover a bundle of exclusive deals with Alaska Access, our newest subscription program that includes discounted Wi-Fi plus more cost-saving tools 

Alaska Airlines is launching a new subscription program for savvy, price-conscious guests that will save them time and money throughout the year. Starting today, travelers can sign up for Alaska Access at just $5 per month to take advantage of exclusive savings.  

Immediately after sign-up, subscribers will receive their first monthly single-use voucher to Alaska’s inflight streaming-fast satellite Wi-Fi. Benefits also include advanced alerts to some of our biggest fare sales of the year. Subscribers will be notified the night before a sale is announced to take advantage of huge savings and seat selection. Alaska Access also offers a calendar view of the lowest fares that are tailored to your favorite destinations, so you never miss out on the best deals.  

We know time is valuable for our guests who are busy balancing a lot in their lives and we kept that in mind when we developed Alaska Access,” said Shane Jones, vice president of business development at Alaska Airlines, “Alaska Access is part of our commitment to make travel more affordable and convenient for everyone – whether planning for your dream vacation or returning home from college. Our new subscription service allows you to discover some of our best deals of the year right at your fingertips, in just minutes.” 

Alaska was the first U.S. airline to introduce a subscription service to travelers in 2022 when it launched Flight Pass. Responding to the continued shift in consumer demand for personalized and tailored experiences, Alaska is yet again leading the industry with this new and unique subscription program that brings value and convenience to travelers.

Alaska Access is rolling out just in time for spring and summer travel planning. This year, Alaska is seeing robust demand from passengers planning their trips and booking their flights months in advance. 

Alaska Access Exclusive Benefits:  

Early Sale Access:

With Alaska Access you’ll be the first to know about some of our biggest sales. Look out for in-app notifications alerting you to the upcoming sale the night before the rest of the world finds out (with the ability to book at sale prices immediately). This means you can book your favorite route times and seats before they’re gone! 

Personalized Fare Page:

We want you to spend less time planning your trip and more time enjoying it! You’ll be able to personalize a fare page through Alaska Access to view some of our lowest fares by money and miles to more than 500 global destinations. It takes the guesswork and time out of finding the best-valued flights on Alaska. 

Single-use Monthly Wi-Fi Voucher:

When you fly with Alaska, staying connected is easy. Each month starting at sign up, you’ll receive a one-time use voucher discount code that allows you to stream, browse and chat on-board using our satellite Wi-Fi.  

Here’s how to sign up: 

Guests can save time and money searching for the best deals to their next vacation spot with Alaska Access at just $5 per month while enjoying Alaska’s premium products and services, including the most legroom in First* and Premium Class and the most generous loyalty program with the fastest path to elite status. It’s easy to sign up for Alaska Access – click here for more details, including Terms and Conditions. Alaska Access is powered by Recurly, a leading subscription management and billing platform. 

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*Out of any U.S. Airline excluding lie-flat equipped aircraft 

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It’s official: Alaska Airlines technicians vote YES on new contract 

Alaska Airlines’ aircraft maintenance technicians, maintenance controllers and other employees who support aircraft maintenance and are represented by the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) have ratified a new five-year contract.

The agreement, which was negotiated in 12 months, includes significant improvements such as increased pay, retirement contribution increases, and quality of life improvements. With this recently closed deal, Alaska Airlines has ratified seven contracts across six represented groups since 2022.  

“The expertise, professionalism and dedication of our aircraft technicians is unmatched,” said CEO Ben Minicucci. “I’m proud to have them working under a new contract just four months after their previous contract was amendable. This contract reflects the critical contributions of our technicians, improves their quality of life, and reinforces Alaska’s foundation for long-term success.”  

“This agreement not only includes justifiable increases in pay, benefits, and quality of life, it gives our members a framework for fulfilling their careers with Alaska Airlines,” said Bret Oestreich, AMFA National President.

“Thanks to our negotiating committee, we were able to secure protections in headcount and work rules, as well as job security for work performed by our members for decades. AMFA prioritized the interests of all its members in various classifications when bargaining the deal, and this agreement shows the importance of our members remaining unified and AMFA’s strength at the bargaining table,” Oestreich continued. “Our focus now shifts to working with Alaska Airlines to attract and retain qualified, skilled professionals, and this industry-leading contract will make that job much easier.” 

Effective as of the previous contract’s amendable date (October 17, 2023), the new contract contains: 

  • Wage increases including a top-of-scale rate of $65.85 for technician classifications. 
  • Quality of life improvements to schedules to reduce life disruptions, and incorporates seniority for shift times to recognize length of service.  
  • Retirement contribution increases and caps to health care costs. 
  • Language changes that allow for increased productivity. 

The previous contract with AMFA became amendable in October 2023. Contracts in the airline industry do not expire. Once they become amendable, the current contract remains in effect until a new agreement is ratified. 

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