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What Pride Month means to Alaska Airlines employees 

Video and photos by Ingrid Barrentine

Together, we’re creating an airline people love and that starts with making a positive impact and building a world where everyone is free to love, live, and fly with pride. 

“Alaska Airlines remains steadfast in our commitment to Pride. We will continue to champion diversity, support the LGBTQ+ community, and create a culture where everyone can be their authentic selves,” said James Thomas, director of diversity, equity and inclusion at Alaska. “By celebrating our differences and embracing inclusivity, we believe we can soar to new heights together.” 

We’re also a proud sponsor of many Pride Parades around the country. Read more below for locations, what Pride means to our employees and where they like to celebrate. 

“Pride Month to me means celebrating all the different parts of me that for the longest time society made me feel ashamed of. It is celebrating all the activists that came before me that helped paved a softer world for me to be in. San Francisco is a beacon of hope for our community. No matter where you fall on the LGBTQ spectrum, you can come here and this is a safe haven for you.”

– Fabiano F., flight attendant.

“My absolute favorite city for Pride has to be San Francisco. Every color of the rainbow is replicated in the variety of humanity all present to support love, inclusivity, expression, and gender. The reason why we celebrate Pride year after year for the entire month is both a reminder of how far we have come and to set goals towards equity and equality for the future. Even though Pride is a month for LGBTQ+ humans, the movement encompasses a movement of true freedom for all.”

– Jessica T., first officer.

 

“As for where I love to celebrate, my favorite place is San Diego, but the grandeur and energy of San Francisco Pride is unparalleled!”  – Ismael B.

“I feel privileged to work at a company that values my contributions to our common professional goal, but also values and respects me as the authentic gay man that I am. We have come such a long way and made big important strides like the right to marry the person we love and the right to not get fired from our jobs for who we are, and those are just a few of the reasons we celebrate Pride. Are we where we all need to be yet? NO, but that’s why we proudly celebrate who we are, so we can continue to represent and encourage new generations that together, we can make a difference and have a better life for all of us.”

– Ismael B., sales and loyalty market manager. 

“One of the most beautiful things about being a queer person is that it’s inclusive of so many people, including allyship. I identify as a queer person, but also as a human operating in the world, just like everybody else—having struggles and a desire to be loved and to love. And for friendships and a great relationship with my family. Those are just as important to me as every part of my identity. I think that evolution of identity is something very normal for folks in any space.”

– J’Keren S., public affairs manager.

 

“I sometimes still look where I truly belong, but I always think that no matter what and where I would ever go, I always need to be proud of myself and learning to accept who I am. My advice: don’t be afraid to take a chance and shine bright.”

– Marcy P., customer service agent. 

Fly to Pride 

There are several parades around the country through November that Alaska participates in, including: 

June: 

  • June 29: Anchorage Pride 
  • June 30: NYC Pride March  
  • June 30: 50th Annual Seattle Pride Parade  
  • June 30: San Francisco Pride  

July and beyond 

  • July 20: San Diego Pride 
  • July 21: Portland Pride 
  • September 15: Boise Pride 
  • October 11: Las Vegas Pride 
  • October 19: Honolulu Pride 
  • October 20: Phoenix Pride 
  • November 3: Palm Springs Pride 

“I Am …” at Alaska Airlines

Our “I Am…” Campaign kicked off in January to celebrate Heritage Months and the diversity of our employees. Keep an eye out for the “I Am…” logo throughout the year to read their inspiring stories.

Our “I Am…” Campaign kicked off in January to celebrate Heritage Months and the diversity of our employees. Keep an eye out for the “I Am…” logo throughout the year to read their inspiring stories. 

We’re sharing this story featuring multiple employees in honor of Pride Month. Alaska Airlines is a long-time supporter of the LGBTQ+ community, our partners and allies alike, and we are committed to creating an environment where our employees, guests, and business partners feel included and belong.    

As we like to say, our Pride flies nonstop, and the same can be said for our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion work, which includes everything from improving the guest experience to how we do business and much more.  

We encourage our employees to be their authentic selves, and our commitment is to ensure a welcoming, safe, and respectful work environment for all. This includes adding domestic partners to health benefits, supporting transgender employees with dedicated resources, including gender identity and expression in our people policies, and more.    

We also care about creating an inclusive travel experience. We’ve modernized our reservation systems for broader gender inclusivity, adopted gender-neutral greetings onboard, and curated special inflight entertainment to celebrate Pride Month.   

Collaboration is key, and we also work with partners in the community including the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) and Lambda Legal and provide in-kind support to smaller grassroots organizations & fundraisers such as the Pride Foundation, Oregon Pride in Business, National LGBTQ + Bar Association, and many others.   

Upgrade your summer journey: Take off on a culinary adventure with our new food & beverage menu! 

Get ready to experience a journey of flavors this summer as we unveil our seasonal First Class menu and all cabin premium beverage line-up!  

Our chef-curated First Class summer menu is carefully crafted with a symphony of seasonal ingredients and vibrant flavors from up and down the west coast. Travelers love variety and we’re making sure to offer something for everyone. Entrees include made-from-scratch Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes served with pecan-candied bacon, Summer Shrimp & Linguine served with a bright lemon-dill sauce and a Seattle take on Teriyaki Chicken, with flavors of charred ginger & garlic! 

Whether traveling for pleasure or business, our guests can now savor a taste of excellence while enjoying the comforts of Alaska’s First Class experience, including high-quality chef driven meals, premium beverages,  care in the sky from our best in class Flight Attendants and the most legroom in First Class*,” said Todd Traynor-Corey, managing director of guest products at Alaska Airlines. “We’re excited for our guests to discover our 2024 First Class summer menu that captures the season with every bite.” 

In addition to our new First Class menu, which is now available for selection using our industry-leading pre-order option, we’re excited to announce a refreshing summer beverage line-up.  Our seasonal drink menu starts next month and includes a range of options to enhance the travel experience—from our premium beers, fine wines and refreshing non-alcoholic options. 

We’re thrilled to continue our partnership with Portland-based Straightaway Cocktails and introduce a new gin-based Bee’s Knees cocktail with honey & lemon that is sure to brighten any flight. We’re also debuting a new sparkling brut with lively citrus aromas from Walla-Walla based Waterbrook Winery. California-based Sierra Nevada is welcomed back onboard with their Summerfest Lager, and for guests looking for a non-alcoholic beer option, try Best Day Brewing Electro Lime Cerveza beer.  

For our guests in First Class, we’ll be introducing a 5th generation family winery out of Lodi, CA, appropriately named Gen5. Varietals include a crisp Sauvignon Blanc with notes of citrus & tropical fruits, with the Ancestral Red Blend features dark berries and a spiced finish. In our Main Cabin, Broken Earth’s 50th Anniversary Cabernet Sauvignon will be available alongside a new Chardonnay from Pull Winery – both from the Paso Robles area.  

Summer isn’t complete without a cool treat to escape the heat. Our new seasonal Salt & Straw flavors feature sun-kissed flavors of summer fruit that will leave you craving for one more scoop. 

Our inflight menu continues to offer more choices than any other U.S. airline.  

Guests on flights over 1,100 miles* will be able to choose from up to five chef-curated dishes, including at least one hot meal option and up to five snack items on flights over 223 miles, such as the Mediterranean Tapas Pack (vegan and gluten-free).

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

In May, we announced the return of hot meals for purchase in Premium Class and our Main Cabin.

View our full 2024 premium summer food and beverage menu here. 

New Summer First Class Food Offerings

Morning Featured Entrees in First Class (now available): 

Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes: Fluffy blueberry ricotta pancakes, served with chicken-apple breakfast sausage and cage-free scrambled eggs 

Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes

Turmeric Tofu Scramble: Turmeric-spiced tofu scramble topped with a green salsa (medium spice), served with roasted fingerling potatoes, herbed cherry tomatoes, and vegan chorizo crumbles. All items are made without gluten ingredients and vegan 

Turmeric Tofu Scramble
Evening Featured Entrees – First Class (now available): 

Seattle Teriyaki Chicken: Seattle’s take on teriyaki chicken: grilled chicken thigh marinated in a ginger & garlic teriyaki sauce, served on top of steamed jasmine rice, and sautéed peppers, onions & sugar-snap peas

Seattle Teriyaki Chicken

Summer Shrimp & Linguine: Linguini pasta tossed in bright lemon, dill, & caper sauce, topped with grilled shrimp and fresh green peas

Summer Shrimp & Linguine

Sweet Chili Salmon: Grilled salmon filet topped with a sweet chili soy sauce, served with chow mein noodles and steamed bok choy

Sweet Chili Salmon
Don’t forget dessert!
First Class (now available): 

Salt & Straw Strawberry Rhubarb with Cinnamon Crumble Meyer Lemon with Blueberry Jam made by Portland-based Salt & Straw 

Salt & Straw Strawberry Rhubarb with Cinnamon Crumble Meyer Lemon with Blueberry Jam
New Summer Beverage Offerings
First Class (available by mid-July) 
  • Gen 5 Winery Sauvignon Blanc & Ancestral Red (Paso Robles, CA) 
Gen 5 Winery Sauvignon Blanc & Ancestral Red
Main Cabin (available by mid-July)  
Broken Earth Winery 50th Anniversary Cabernet Sauvignon (left) | Waterbrook Brut Bubbles (right)
  • Broken Earth Winery 50th Anniversary Cabernet Sauvignon (Paso Robles, California) 
  • Pull Winery Chardonnay (Paso Robles, California) 
All Cabins (available by mid-July)  
  • Straightaway Cocktails Bee’s Knees, Oregon Old Fashioned (Portland, Oregon) 
  • Waterbrook Brut Bubbles (Walla Walla, Washington) 
  • Best Day Brewing Electro-Lime Cerveza (San Francisco Bay Area, California) 
  • Sierra Nevada Summerfest Lager (Chico, California) 

*Out of any U.S. legacy airlines excluding lie-flat seats 

*Hot meal options may not be available on some flights 1,100 miles or more, including redeye flights or where catering is not available   

Alaska Airlines partners with Greenlight® to empower the next generation of financially savvy kids

At Alaska Airlines, we believe there are tremendous benefits in teaching kids how to save and invest starting at a young age. That’s why we’re welcoming Greenlight® as a new Mileage Plan partner.

Our loyalty program already offers great benefits for parents and their children, including family seating and boarding that guarantees one adult will be seated next to any child 13 or younger; parental leave that allows our elite fliers to put their status on pause; kid-friendly food items on board; car seats that fly for free; and more.

Greenlight shines a light on something we all think about: money. It offers financial tools to help parents raise financially smart kids. The company’s award-winning debit card and app teaches kids and teens how to earn, save, invest and spend wisely—all with parental supervision. Kids can also access Greenlight Level Up™, an in-app financial literacy game with a best-in-class curriculum, educational challenges, and rewards.

As a father of two young children, my spouse and I have used Greenlight since 2021 to help educate our kids about money management,” said Brett Catlin, vice president of loyalty, alliances and sales at Alaska Airlines. “We’re always looking for best-in-class brands to partner with and I’m excited for our members to experience the Greenlight platform.”

First-time subscribers to Greenlight can now receive bonus Mileage Plan miles when they register online for Greenlight through the designated link and provide a valid Alaska Airlines number. All Mileage Plan members will receive 4,000 miles after paying their first monthly fee. Our elite Mileage Plan members (MVPs, MVP Golds, MVP Gold 75Ks and MVP Gold 100Ks) will receive 6,000 miles after paying their first monthly fee.

Register online
About Greenlight

Greenlight Financial Technology is the family fintech company on a mission to help parents raise financially-smart kids. Its product, Greenlight, is an award-winning banking app, complete with a debit card for kids and teens and safety features for the whole family. Parents can automate allowance, manage chores, set flexible spending controls, and invest for their family’s future. Kids and teens learn to earn, save, spend wisely, give, and invest. Together, families can also stay safe and connected with location sharing, SOS alerts, crash detection with 911 dispatch, driving scores, reports and real-time trip alerts.

Greenlight partners with more than 60 leading banks, credit unions, and employers to bring its family finance solution to more families through the Greenlight for Banks, Greenlight for Credit Unions, and Greenlight for Work programs. 
The Greenlight Debit Card is issued by Community Federal Savings Bank, member FDIC, pursuant to license by Mastercard International. Greenlight Investment Advisors, LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor, provides investment advisory services to its clients. Investing involves risk and may include the loss of principal. Greenlight is a financial technology company, not a bank. The Greenlight app facilitates banking services through Greenlight’s bank partners. For more information, please visit: greenlight.com.

How Alaska Airlines connects rural communities with lifesaving health care 

When Nichole learned she had a brain tumor, she was 450 miles and two flights away from home.  

Nichole was at her regular doctor appointment in Anchorage, where she traveled twice a year from the rural community of Kongiganak via an Alaska Airlines flight from Bethel. The vertigo and muscle weakness she thought were symptoms of Meniere’s disease were actually caused by a softball-sized tumor, and Nichole’s diagnosis meant an emergency flight to Salt Lake City for three surgeries, six weeks of recovery, and multiple flights between Kongiganak and Anchorage for radiation treatments. She was terrified.

“I just didn’t realize I actually had cancer,” she said. “I had a major mental breakdown when I found out I had an oncologist.”

Nichole had a large meningioma removed from her brain in January 2021 in Salt Lake City. 

Every day, Alaska Airlines sees patients like Nichole coming through Bethel and other communities throughout the state on their way to receive vital health care in Anchorage, Seattle and elsewhere in the lower 48, and we find ways big and small to care for those guests who need extra help along the way. 

“You get to know people as they come and go, and what their needs are going to be,” said Carla S., a lead customer service agent in Bethel who has worked for Alaska Airlines for 11 years. “You know if they’re going to need extra help getting onto the plane or help when they get to Anchorage. It’s a daily thing out here connecting people.”   

Last year, the local hospital, Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation (YKHC), arranged for more than 70,000 flights on Alaska Airlines out of Bethel, a hub for over 50 rural communities in the region.  

Carla S., a lead customer service agent in Bethel who has worked for Alaska Airlines for 11 years.

A lot of times we know these people, or we’re related to them,” said Carla, who grew up in one of these communities. “We try to make people smile and make their day brighter, especially when you know that they’re going through something tough.” 

A gift of donated miles goes a long way

Nichole has taught social studies to Kongiganak seventh- through 12th-graders for eight years, and she loves her life there.  “This is home and where I feel the most myself,” she said. But the remote location makes securing health care more complicated and expensive, compounded when lifesaving cancer treatments required multiple trips. 

Nichole teaches social studies in Kongiganak. Her brain tumor has responded well to treatment.

A gift of donated miles by Alaska Airlines and telecommunications provider GCI to the American Cancer Society (ACS) of Alaska allowed Nichole to focus on battling cancer rather than stressing over the travel costs.

“I wouldn’t have been able to stay where I love and maintain the level of care I have without their help,” she said.  

ACS’ Flight Partner program also covered the cost for her then-fiancé to fly with her to care for her while she traveled. Because of the radiation treatment she received in Anchorage, her prognosis is good. She continues to recover and is back teaching in Kongiganak. “Thank you, a million times over,” she said. 

Patients in rural Alaska have no choice but to fly to receive specialized health care, said Charissa Habeger, American Cancer Society’s director for the state of Alaska, and very serious diagnoses often require travel outside the state.

“It’s a wild concept for folks in the lower 48 that it’s really impossible to get from Point A to Point B in the state without flying,” Habeger said. “That’s why this flight partnership program for the American Cancer Society is so important, and it really is unique to Alaska and Hawaii. No other states have a flight partnership program.” 

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan members can help, too, by donating miles to help connect patients to health care in the state of Alaska and across the country. Learn more

Caring service on the ground and in the air

The team in Bethel plays another vital role in the community’s health care, shepherding the time-sensitive medications shipping in through Alaska Air Cargo to the local YKHC hospital, as well as clinic patients’ lab samples shipping out. According to Carla, those lab samples must go out that day to Anchorage or Seattle because they have limited time to stay viable. Like most team members in Bethel, she works with both cargo and passengers. 

Carla shared the Bethel team keeps an eye out every day for guests who need extra time or assistance—especially those guests who can’t navigate the stairs from the tarmac into the aircraft. The team has a DPL (Disabled Passenger Lift) truck that can drive guests out to the plane and lift them to reach the door, and she tries to ensure that those who need the service know about it. 

After years helping thousands of patients traveling to appointments, Carla also has picked up some travel tips that she shares:  

  • She advises guests traveling from smaller communities to pack light, if possible, so they don’t have to take time to check baggage.  
  • Allow for more time than they think they need to make their connections.  

“We know that they’re trying to get there for a hospital appointment that they’ve been waiting for weeks or months, so we do everything we can to help make sure they are on their flight,” she said. 

The team’s caring service is valued and appreciated, said Nichole, who noted that Alaska Airlines is her first choice when she travels. “I fly with them almost exclusively because they take such good care of us,” she said. “Those are my plane people.” 

Hawaiian Airlines Announces Launch of Private Exchange Offer for Any and All of Its Outstanding 5.750% Senior Secured Notes Due 2026 and Consent Solicitation

HA High Res Logo_mid


HONOLULU – Hawaiian Airlines, Inc. (the "Company") today announced that Hawaiian Brand Intellectual Property, Ltd. (the "Brand Issuer"), an exempted company incorporated with limited liability under the laws of the Cayman Islands and an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, and HawaiianMiles Loyalty, Ltd. (the "Loyalty Issuer", and, together with the Brand Issuer, the "Issuers" and each, an "Issuer"), have commenced an offer to exchange (the "Exchange Offer") any and all of their outstanding 5.750% Senior Secured Notes due 2026 (the "Existing Notes") held by Eligible Holders, as defined below, for the Issuers' 11.000% Senior Secured Notes due 2029 (the "New Notes") and cash.

           

Exchange Consideration per $1,000 Principal Amount of
2026 Notes Tendered

           

Total Consideration for 2026
Notes Tendered On or Prior
to the Early Exchange Time

 

Exchange Consideration
Amount for each $1,000
Principal Amount of 2026
Notes Tendered After the
Early Exchange Time

 

Notes
to be Exchanged

 

CUSIP/ISINs Nos.

 

Outstanding
Principal
Amount

 

11.000 %
Senior
Secured
Notes due
2029

 

Cash

 

11.000 %
Senior
Secured
Notes due
2029

 

Cash

5.750% Senior
Secured Notes due
2026

 

41984LAA5;
US41984LAA52
G4404LAA8;
USG4404LAA82

 

$1,200,000,000

 

$825.0

 

$175.0

 

$825.0

 

$125.0

Prior to the launch of the Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation, holders of the Existing Notes representing nearly 50% of the aggregate principal amount of the Existing Notes outstanding (the "Supporting Holders") have indicated their intent to participate in the Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation, but no assurance can be given that any such Supporting Holder will participate.

In connection with the Exchange Offer, the Issuers are soliciting (the "Consent Solicitation" and, together with the Exchange Offer, the "Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation") consents (the "Consents") to the adoption of certain amendments (the "Proposed Amendments") to the indenture governing the Existing Notes. Eligible Holders who tender their Existing Notes pursuant to the Exchange Offer must also deliver Consents to the Proposed Amendments. Eligible Holders may not deliver Consents to the Proposed Amendments without also validly tendering their Existing Notes.

The Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation is being made solely to Eligible Holders upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the confidential offering memorandum and solicitation statement (the "Offering Memorandum"), and the related letter of transmittal (the "Letter of Transmittal" and together with the Offering Memorandum, the "Exchange Offer Materials"), each dated June 24, 2024 .

The Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation is being made only (a) in the United States , to holders of Existing Notes who are reasonably believed to be "qualified institutional buyers," as defined in Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), and (b) outside the United States , to holders of Existing Notes who are not "U.S. persons" (as defined in Regulation S under the Securities Act) in offshore transactions in compliance with Regulation S.  We refer to the holders of Existing Notes who have certified that they are eligible to participate in the Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation pursuant to at least one of the foregoing conditions as "Eligible Holders."

Upon the terms and subject to the conditions of the Exchange Offer, Eligible Holders that validly tender their Existing Notes at or prior to 5:00 p.m. , New York City Time, on July 9, 2024 (the "Early Exchange Time"), and whose tenders are accepted for exchange by the Issuers, will receive $825.0 of New Notes and $175.0 cash for every $1,000 principal amount of the Existing Notes.

Upon the terms and subject to the conditions of the Exchange Offer, Eligible Holders that validly tender, and do not validly withdraw, their Existing Notes after the Early Exchange Time but at or prior to 5:00 p.m. , New York City Time, on July 24, 2024 (the "Expiration Time"), and whose tenders are accepted for exchange by the Issuers, will receive $825.0 of New Notes and $125.0 cash for every $1,000 principal amount of the Existing Notes.

In addition, holders of Existing Notes validly tendered (and not validly withdrawn) in the Exchange Offer will receive on the settlement date accrued and unpaid interest to, but not including, the settlement date in cash on all such Existing Notes validly tendered and accepted for exchange pursuant to the Exchange Offer.

Tenders of Existing Notes may only be withdrawn at or prior to 5:00 p.m. , New York City time, on July 9, 2024 (the "Withdrawal Deadline").

Consummation of the Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation is conditioned upon the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions set forth in the Exchange Offer Materials. The Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation is conditioned upon Eligible Holders validly tendering and not validly withdrawing at least $1,140,000,000 aggregate principal amount of Existing Notes (the "Minimum Participation Condition"), provided however, that (i) if Eligible Holders shall have validly tendered and not validly withdrawn at least $800,000,000 , but less than $1,140,000,000 , aggregate principal amount of Existing Notes, the Issuers may accept for exchange such Existing Notes in their sole and absolute discretion and shall have the right to waive the Minimum Participation Condition without extending the Withdrawal Deadline or Expiration Time and (ii) if Eligible Holders shall have validly tendered and not validly withdrawn less than $800,000,000 aggregate principal amount of Existing Notes, the Issuers shall not accept for payment such Existing Notes and the Issuers shall not have the right to waive the Minimum Participation Condition. In addition, the Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation may be terminated or withdrawn at any time, in the Issuers' sole and absolute discretion, subject to compliance with applicable law.

The complete terms and conditions of the Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation are described in the Exchange Offer Materials, copies of which may be obtained by Eligible Holders by contacting Global Bondholder Services Corporation, Attn: Corporate Action, 65 Broadway, Suite 404, New York, New York 10006, telephone number: (855) 654-2015 (toll-free) or (212) 430-3774 (for Banks and Brokers) to complete the eligibility process. The eligibility certificate is available electronically at: https://gbsc-usa.com/eligibility/hawaiian and is also available by contacting Global Bondholder Services Corporation. Holders of Existing Notes that are not Eligible Holders will not be able to receive such documents, but may call us at the numbers set forth above for further instructions.

This press release is for informational purposes only and is neither an offer to purchase nor a solicitation of an offer to sell any securities.  The Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation is being made and the New Notes are being offered only to "qualified institutional buyers" and holders that are not "U.S. persons" as such terms are defined under the Securities Act. The New Notes have not been registered under the Securities Act or under any state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act, and, accordingly, are subject to significant restrictions on transfer and resale as more fully described in the Exchange Offer Materials. The Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation is subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Exchange Offer Materials.

About Hawaiian Airlines

Now in its 95th year of continuous service, Hawaiian is Hawaiʻi's largest and longest-serving airline. Hawaiian offers approximately 150 daily flights within the Hawaiian Islands, and nonstop flights between Hawaiʻi and 16 U.S. gateway cities – more than any other airline – as well as service connecting Honolulu and American Samoa , Australia , Cook Islands , Japan , New Zealand , South Korea and Tahiti.

Consumer surveys by Condé Nast Traveler and TripAdvisor have placed Hawaiian among the top of all domestic airlines serving Hawaiʻi. The carrier was named Hawaiʻi's best employer by Forbes in 2022 and has topped Travel + Leisure's World's Best list as the No. 1 U.S. airline for the past two years. Hawaiian has also led all U.S. carriers in on-time performance for 18 consecutive years (2004-2021) as reported by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

The airline is committed to connecting people with aloha by offering complimentary meals for all guests on transpacific routes and the convenience of no change fees on Main Cabin and Premium Cabin seats. HawaiianMiles members also enjoy flexibility with miles that never expire. As Hawai'i's hometown airline, Hawaiian encourages guests to Travel Pono and experience the islands safely and respectfully.

Hawaiian Airlines, Inc. is a subsidiary of Hawaiian Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: HA). Additional information is available at HawaiianAirlines.com . Follow Hawaiian's Twitter updates ( @HawaiianAir ), become a fan on Facebook  ( Hawaiian Airlines ), and follow us on Instagram ( hawaiianairlines ). For career postings and updates, follow Hawaiian's LinkedIn page.

For media inquiries, please visit Hawaiian Airlines' online newsroom .

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may contain information that includes or is based upon forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements give expectations or forecasts of future events. These statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They use words such as "anticipate," "estimate," "expect," "project," "intend," "plan," "believe," "potential," and "will," and other words and terms of similar meaning, or are tied to future periods, in connection with a discussion of future operating or financial performance. In particular, these include statements relating to future actions, including the satisfaction of the conditions to the Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation and the completion of the proposed Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation.

Any or all forward-looking statements may turn out to be wrong. They can be affected by inaccurate assumptions or by known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Many such factors will be important in determining the actual future results of the Issuers, the Company and their subsidiaries and affiliates. These statements are based on current expectations and the current economic environment. They involve several risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. These statements are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Risks, uncertainties, and other factors that might cause such differences include the risks, uncertainties and other factors identified herein.  The Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly correct or update any forward-looking statement if the Company later becomes aware that such statement is not likely to be achieved.

 

Cision View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hawaiian-airlines-announces-launch-of-private-exchange-offer-for-any-and-all-of-its-outstanding-5-750-senior-secured-notes-due-2026-and-consent-solicitation-302180779.html

SOURCE Hawaiian Airlines, Inc.

7 summer destination dupes you must visit for the ultimate & unexpected getaway 

We’ve got you covered on this summer’s hottest travel trend and handpicked some summer getaways we’re calling “destination dupes.”  

These spots might not be your typical picks, but believe us, they’re just as delightful (and maybe even cheaper!) as their tried-and-true doppelgängers travelers love. Just in time for summer, we’re launching our biggest summer schedule ever, with new nonstop routes and international destinations.

DUPE FOR GENEVA: TORONTO 

Geneva, right? Stunning water views, cobblestone streets that scream history, and a vibe that’s just oh-so-multicultural. It’s like stepping into a European postcard. Now, hold that thought and bring it a little closer to home. Ever been to Toronto? If not, you’re in for a treat because it’s got all the charms of Geneva, minus the long flight from the States. 

Leman lake – Geneva city in Switzerland (left) | Lake Ontario – Toronto in Canada (right)

We’re now flying our new daily, nonstop flight between Seattle and Toronto Pearson International Airport—our newest destination and the sixth Canadian city we now serve.  

Still pondering? Toronto has its own version of Geneva’s Old Town, complete with cobblestones and enough historical mojo to fill a library. And if you’re an art buff, the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec will give you major déjà vu vibes from Geneva’s Musée d’art et d’histoire. 

Now, we know what you’re thinking: what about those breathtaking Alps? Sure, Geneva’s got ’em, but hold onto your hats because Québec City’s Montmorency Falls? They’re like nature’s way of saying, “Hey, Geneva, we’ve got something pretty darn impressive too!” 

Book now 
DUPE FOR TUSCANY, ITALY: NAPA VALLEY, CALIFORNIA 

Alright, picture this: You’re surrounded by sun-kissed vineyards, indulging in gourmet delights, and taking leisurely riposos (that’s Italian for afternoon naps). Sound like a dreamy Tuscan getaway? Nope, just another day in California’s beautiful wine country! 

Tuscany, Italy (left) | Napa Valley, California (right)

Every moment in Napa Valley feels like a romantic European escape. Start by exploring one (or heck, a few) of the 400 wineries dotting the landscape—you can even fly home your favorite case of wine with our “Wine Flies Free” program.  

But hey, maybe wine tasting isn’t your jam. No worries! Napa Valley’s got you covered with a buffet of other awesome activities. Like strolling the Oxbow Public Market or indulging in some cheesy delights at local cheese shops. Or perhaps you fancy a paddleboarding adventure down the tranquil Napa River? Gourge. 

Napa Valley’s culinary scene is also like a love letter to Italy. Including Michelin-starred restaurants serving up culinary masterpieces, organic farm-to-table goodness straight from Sonoma County or cozying up for a spaghetti and meatballs under the stars on an outdoor patio.  

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an Italian escape right in California’s backyard. 

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DUPE FOR LAKE COMO: LAKE ATITLÁN, GUATEMALA 

If Lake Como’s high prices have you raising an eyebrow, fear not! There’s a hidden gem that’s equally stunning but won’t break the bank: Guatemala’s Lake Atitlán.  

Lake Como, Italy (left) | Lake Atitlán, Guatemala (right)

Nestled in a colossal volcanic crater that formed way back in the day, 84,000 years ago to be exact, it boasts breathtaking mountain views and serene waters that’ll have you reaching for your camera. 

But here’s the real magic: This place is alive with the vibrant culture of small Mayan-speaking towns that hug its shores. And towering over it all are the dramatic cliffs of not one, not two, but three volcanoes (yep, one is still puffing away). Adventure-seekers can tackle hiking trails to conquer these volcanic giants or opt for a more laid-back vibe with a kayak ride or a leisurely stroll of lakeside villages via water taxi. Either way, you won’t be disappointed! 

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DUPE FOR PARIS: NEW ORLEANS 

Have you ever heard New Orleans being called the “Paris of the South”? It’s a pretty fitting nickname for this lively city bursting with music, history, art and more. You can practically feel the energy pulsing through the streets! 

Cozy old street in Montmartre, Paris (left) | French Quarter in New Orleans (right)

Both cities have a strong French influence, visible in New Orleans’ French Quarter, which mirrors the charming streets of Paris with its historic buildings and wrought-iron balconies. 

And let’s talk attractions—Nola’s got it all. From top-notch museums to jaw-dropping landmarks, there’s something for everyone. Plus, when it comes to food, oh boy, you’re in for a treat. The food scene in New Orleans, famous for its Creole and Cajun dishes, will have your taste buds doing a happy dance. 

But wait, there’s more! Art lovers, rejoice! New Orleans’ art scene is next level. From stunning galleries to vibrant street art, you’ll find beauty around every corner. 

So yeah, New Orleans not just a city, it’s an experience. Get ready for the romantic ambiance and festive spirit of New Orleans, where walkable streets and picturesque riverfront settings make it a captivating dupe for Paris. 

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DUPE FOR THE MALDIVES: THE BAHAMAS 

If you’re craving some beach bliss. Well, guess what? Nassau’s got your back, and it’s giving the Maldives a run for its money! With its 700 islands and cays, the Bahamas has it all—from bustling Nassau to serene Out Islands, just like the Maldives with its scattered atolls and tranquil, remote islets. 

The Maldives (left) | The Bahamas (right)

Now, here’s where it gets exciting: Both the Bahamas and the Maldives are a dream for beach lovers like us. Crystal-clear waters? Check. Stunning coral reefs? Double check. And don’t even get us started on the colorful marine life—it’s like swimming in a real-life aquarium! 

So, whether you’re daydreaming about sinking your toes into the powdery sands of Nassau or jetting off to the Maldives, one thing’s for sure: You’re in for a treat either way! 

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DUPE FOR SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO: CABO SAN LUCAS 

If you’re seeking coastal charm and vibrant nightlife, Cabo San Lucas is the place to be! Famous for its breathtaking rock formations and expansive desert landscapes that stretch to the Pacific Ocean, Cabo dazzles visitors with its natural beauty, much like San Juan captivates with its historical forts and colonial architecture overlooking the Atlantic. 

Historical castle El Morro along the coastline, San Juan, Puerto Rico | Hillside in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Both places have deep ties to Spanish history, seen in Cabo’s well-preserved landmarks and San Juan’s vibrant Old San Juan district. A must-sea this summer!  

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DUPE FOR BOLIVIA: SALT LAKE CITY  

Ever heard of the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah? They’re like the American cousin of Bolivia’s Uyuni Salt Flats. The photo ops? Absolutely out of this world—vast, otherworldly landscapes stretching out with nothing but white salt as far as you can see. 

Bolivia’s Uyuni Salt Flats | Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah

Just like their Bolivian counterpart, the Bonneville Salt Flats offer a one-of-a-kind experience that’ll leave you feeling like you’ve stepped onto another planet. From speed racing to simply gazing up at the stars, there’s something for everyone!

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Summer’s here & we’re ready for takeoff

During this year’s peak summer months (June, July and August), we’ve added almost one million seats versus last year; these added seats will help guests get to more barbeques, baseball games, and beaches than ever before. Our busiest days will be before and after Independence Day, where we expect to see almost 160,000 guest boardings each day.

Experience a premium journey with Alaska Airlines, the West Coast’s top airline. Enjoy the most legroom in First and Premium Class, no change fees, diverse fare options, and the generous Mileage Plan loyalty program. We partner with 30 global airlines and offer West Coast food and beverages on board. Easily book tickets and earn miles at alaskaair.com.

For in-flight entertainment, stream hundreds of free movies and TV shows to your device. Our flights feature streaming-fast satellite Wi-Fi, fresh meal pre-orders, and power outlets at every seat.

Alaska Airlines unveils new state-of-the-art location at Harvey Milk Terminal 1, reinforcing its position as SFO’s second largest carrier

Today, we begin operating at SFO Harvey Milk Terminal 1 where innovative and modern touches will provide our guests with a seamless travel experience

This morning, Alaska Airlines began welcoming guests to a new and cutting-edge space in San Francisco International Harvey Milk Terminal 1 following a two-year relocation project from Terminal 2. This multimillion-dollar investment allows us to deliver a premium and enhanced guest experience at SFO as the largest carrier at Harvey Milk Terminal 1.

Our new location will soon be home to the newest and second-largest Lounge in our network and reflects our continued commitment to the care and comfort of our guests. We’re working around the clock on the finishing touches before we officially open the Lounge next month and complete our transition to Harvey Milk Terminal 1.

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With this move, we’re now also closer to our fellow oneworld Alliance members and additional global partners and can provide guests with seamless connectivity to their next domestic or international flight. From SFO, Alaska and our partners offer over 130 weekly flights to 18 international destinations.

“Our new home in San Francisco International Airport’s Harvey Milk Terminal 1 delivers a world class experience that our guests will love while supporting our goals of innovation, sustainability and long-term growth,” said Shane Jones, senior vice president of fleet and real estate at Alaska Airlines. “We’re excited to make this move for the approximately 5 million passengers we serve at SFO each year and that this positions us for future growth at our largest hub in California.”

We’re excited to debut technology that supports our long-term goal of reducing congestion and long lines in our lobby. Starting today, Alaska becomes the first airline at SFO to offer travelers the use of automated bag drops to process checked bags. As soon as guests enter our bright and airy lobby, they’ll scan their boarding pass at our bag tag stations to print their bag tags. They’ll then head to our automated bag drop units, which are designed to scan and accept checked baggage.

This innovative and seamless self-service technology, introduced in the heart of Silicon Valley, will get guests through the check-in process within minutes. Caring for our guests is a priority and our dedicated customer service agents will always be ready to help those who need extra assistance.

We’ve put a lot of thought into every step of the guest journey, including installing plenty of seating with power outlets for charging devices before take-off. We also now have access to more gates for more flying to guests’ favorite destinations—with shorter taxi times and faster access to the runways to save time and burn less fuel.

Starting in July, guests will be able to relax in our brand-new Lounge for the ultimate travel experience. The contemporary space will be 11,000 square feet (twice the area of a basketball court) with 55% more seating, including our signature Loungers for kicking back and San Francisco-inspired touches throughout. We’ll offer an expanded menu made with fresh local ingredients, a barista-staffed coffee bar and complimentary West Coast wine, spirits and craft brews.

This transition to Harvey Milk Terminal 1 is just in time for our busiest travel months of the year. This summer, we’re offering the most flights of any airline from San Francisco to some of the largest cities on the West Coast with up to eleven daily flights to Seattle, six daily flights to Portland and as many as seven flights to San Diego. We also just launched new service to Burbank with three nonstop options to choose from throughout the day.

For guests planning their next international trip, our new location at Harvey Milk Terminal 1 easily connects us to our global airline partners without leaving the terminal to get through security.

Whether flying nonstop or catching a connecting flight from San Francisco,  Alaskaair.com has options for what works best for you: You can book flights directly on 24 partner airlines or redeem Mileage Plan miles, all on our site.

The two-year, $30 million relocation project to Harvey Milk Terminal 1 is part of our larger $3 billion investment in infrastructure to enhance the guest experience at our major hubs along the West Coast. At Portland International Airport, we’ll be moving into the brand new, bolder and brighter lobby in August. At Los Angeles International Airport, a complete overhaul of the gates, including new carpet, lighting, seating with power outlets and signage will be complete by the end of July at Terminal 6 where Alaska is the primary airline.  

Alaska Airlines SFO Harvey Milk Terminal 1 Fact Sheet:
  • Sophisticated, state-of-the-art lobby with a 100 x 4.5 feet LED screen that features panoramic images of the San Francisco Bay Area

  • Spacious lobby with 22 counters, more bag drop locations and agent assistance areas  

  • Bag tag stations to print bag tags after a quick scan of a boarding pass

  • SFO’s first automated bag drop units to accept checked bags within minutes   

  • Digital signage throughout our lobby that will provide clear and convenient directions

  • Two TSA checkpoints to choose from, including a convenient checkpoint on the mezzanine level for guests getting off SFO’s AirTrain or travelers looking to bypass the ticket counter

  • A spacious 11,000 square foot Lounge with 55% more seating with plenty of our signature Loungers for kicking back, a barista staffed coffee bar and great views with unlimited daydreaming

  • Post-security, guests will enjoy world-class amenities, including more terminal seating with power outlets, thoughtful children’s areas, inclusive restrooms, local retail and a wide variety of restaurant options

  • Convenient location to our global partners and shared amenities, including American Airlines, which allows for easier connections to international carriers without leaving security or using SFO’s AirTrain to access another terminal or airline 

  • More gates for more flying and long-term growth, including gates dedicated to international arrivals and departures

  • Our gates also provide us with shorter taxi times and faster access to the runways – saving time and burning less fuel

  • Sustainability is close to our heart, so this is a perfect new home for Alaska: Harvey Milk Terminal 1 is the newest terminal at SFO and uses 60% less energy than comparable facilities. It’s the first airport terminal in the world to earn Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) v4 Platinum certification for the design, construction and operation of high-performance structures

  • Our relocation at SFO supports the airport’s $2.4 billion redevelopment project of Harvey Milk Terminal 1 and the port’s efforts to continue to be a world-class airport

Alaska Airlines launches seasonal, daily flight between Portland and New Orleans 

Our new route becomes the first nonstop flight to the “Big Easy” from Portland  

Alaska Airlines is continuing to expand the destinations it flies from Portland with the launch of the first nonstop flight to New Orleans beginning this January. Our daily service will operate until next spring, including during Mardi Gras—New Orleans’ largest annual celebration. Guests can purchase tickets starting June 19 on alaskaair.com. 

As the largest carrier in Portland for more than 20 years, it’s important we continue to expand the nonstop destinations we offer our guests and give them choices when planning their next trip,” said Kirsten Amrine, vice president of revenue management and network planning for Alaska Airlines. “We can’t wait to offer another convenient way to connect our guests along the West Coast to New Orleans, a city rich in history and culture.” 

The vibrant city of New Orleans will be Alaska’s 55th nonstop destination from Portland International Airport when service begins in January. The daily flight will conveniently depart PDX in the morning on our mainline aircraft for guests to enjoy an afternoon in the Big Easy and return to Portland in the evening. 

“We are thrilled that Alaska Airlines is launching nonstop service from New Orleans to Portland,” said Kevin Dolliole, Director of Aviation for Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. “Portland has been the top unserved destination from New Orleans, and this new route not only strengthens the connection between our vibrant cities but also underscores our commitment to enhancing the travel experience for our community and visitors alike.” 

Portland – New Orleans service 

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We’ve grown our PDX presence with new routes, including daily, nonstop flights to Nashville that began this spring and to Atlanta, which is scheduled to begin on Oct. 1. We’ve also kept convenience in mind for guests traveling to and from Portland by significantly adding more flights throughout the day to some of our existing and popular destinations – bringing us to an average of 100+ daily departures from Portland this summer, including Anchorage, Ontario, Reno and Santa Rosa.  

“Alaska’s continued investment in PDX is great news for our travel community. Until now, New Orleans was one of the largest U.S. markets without a nonstop from PDX,” said Dan Pippenger, chief aviation officer at the Port of Portland. “Tens of thousands of travelers already fly between these two great cities every year, and we expect that number to only grow with this new nonstop service.”    

We’re excited about our future in Portland where we’re hard at work designing our new Alaska Lounge. It’s currently scheduled to open in the 2026 timeframe with almost 14,000 square feet of space that will provide nearly double the seating of our current Lounge spaces. Lounge members and guests will enjoy a barista station with hand-crafted espresso beverages and drip coffee from Stumptown; complimentary beer, wine and house spirits; our signature Loungers to relax in; and a custom fireplace.   

All our guests—whether in Portland or 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 the fastest path to elite status; 30 Global Partners; and West Coast food and beverage on board.    

* Out of any U.S. legacy airline excluding lie-flat seats      

Giving Aircraft Life Vests a Second Chance in the Surf

Oʻahu surfers Cathy Chin and Marlene Renee Smith yearned for a way to bring their favorite snacks out to their local break. For them, keeping food on hand meant avoiding a long paddle back to shore and having more time to ride waves.

“I had been trying to bring out protein cookies by attaching them to the back of my surfboard in a Ziplock baggie, but that did not work. All we wanted was to surf for longer, but we kept getting hungry and would have to paddle back in,” explained Chin. So, in January 2023, the two entrepreneurs began devising water-tight designs.

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A surfer paddles out to a break on Oʻahu.

 

Smith created over 10 versions of a surf bag at home with her sewing machine and iron, ranging from Tyvek to sailcloth to polyester. Prototypes had to meet several criteria: be small enough to fit in board shorts and not create water drag, functional and waterproof with a good zipper, and durable to withstand wear and tear from the elements. She shared various options with other surfers and friends, including former professional surfer Keone Downing, who pushed Smith to consider repurposed material.

“Downing said something like, ‘You know, if you are surfers, then you care about the ocean and what you're taking out into it. Maybe you should look for some kind of recycled material.’ That triggered us to look at materials like old boat sails and busted party tents, but we struggled with those materials having too much sun exposure, too much degradation, too many holes in it, you name it.”

Then one day, the answer came to Smith: aviation life vests. 

MainCabin_LifeVest_6714

Aviation life vests are stored beneath aircraft seats and replaced every 10 years.

 

“My husband works in aircraft maintenance, and we had a facility in the Netherlands doing maintenance work for private jets. I'd seen them take the expired life vests out of them and toss them in the trash,” she explained.

Aviation life vests are made with durable nylon and coated with polyurethane to make it waterproof. While the material can withstand the test of time in its packaging, the vest accessories can degrade or weaken, and manufacturers require airlines to replace them every 10 years. 

While enjoying another good surf day on Oʻahu’s South Shore, Chin and Smith paddled to their friend Brad Otani, an aircraft mechanic for Hawaiian Airlines, and inquired about the carrier's expired life vests. Between sets, they discussed their idea with Otani, who later put out feelers with colleagues. Then, in July 2023, Chin and Smith received a donation of 300 life vests from Hawaiian's Brand and Technical Operations teams.

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Image by Think Blue
Brand and Community Specialist Janelle Bayne (left) helped coordinate Hawaiian Airlines' first donation of expired aviation life vests to Chin (right) and Smith.

 

“I thought it was great what they were doing and was happy to support,” Otani said. “I was one of the surfers who tested the prototype made from our aircraft vests and I still use mine today.”

That first donation allowed Chin and Smith to scale production and launch the Think Blue Surf Bag, a 100% waterproof pouch for surfers and outdoor enthusiasts. The Surf Bag can fit items like an electronic car key, a small protein bar or snack, surf wax, a small tin of sunscreen or lip balm, or a credit card and ID. It is available for purchase at www.DaretoThinkBlue.com and in select Oʻahu surf shops. 

Bag2

Image by Think Blue
One of the various iterations of The Surf Bag. Because the bags are hand-cut, each item is unique and may have different patterns or images.

 

Thanks to its partnership with Think Blue, Hawaiian Airlines has so far given new life to 600 expired life vests. The collaboration adds to Hawaiian’s company-wide waste reduction efforts, including minimizing the use of single-use plastics, upcycling cabin materials, sourcing sustainable packaging and more. Details on these initiatives can be found in Hawaiian’s annual Corporate Kuleana report.

Tech Ops

The Hawaiian Airlines Tech Ops team who has helped facilitate the donation of expired life vests.

 

Adding to its success, in April 2024, Think Blue became one of 15 emerging brands to graduate from Founded Outdoors and REI Path Ahead Ventures’ Embark program, an outdoor business accelerator connecting Black, Indigenous, Latina/o/x, Asian American and Pacific Islander founders to industry and startup experts as they learn best practices and gather valuable feedback on their businesses.

Cathy and Marlene

Image by Think Blue
Chin and Smith pictured at the 2024 Grassroots Connect Tradeshow in Reno, Nevada.

 

“We didn't have any big dreams or expectations about, like, saving the whole world or anything,” Smith said. “But if we could make something people liked and get enough people to buy it and make it affordable, I think we can make a significant dent.”

How our unique roots make us the Alaska Airlines people love 

You don’t become a 92-year-old airline without a bit of grit, guts and determination—or a few stories to tell. Those of us who are fortunate enough to be considered ‘old-timers’ chuckle at the unconventional beginnings of the early Alaska Airlines. 

Even though our route map has expanded, we’re still that scrappy, little airline at our core—showing up for our guests and connecting communities that rely on us. For every new city we serve, there are memories like those about an airline president in the 1950s who thought it was a good idea to tap a beer keg in the galley of a plane. For every new fresh menu item we bring onboard, there are stories like the time we had a mid-air encounter with a salmon. Yep, splat right on the windshield (true story).  

Marianne started with Alaska Airlines in 1986 and counts herself among a cadre of old-timers still at the airline who marvel at how the airline has grown and evolved, and who are proud to have played a part in its history.

Rugged roots 

Our history traces back to 1932 when an industrious fella named Linious “Mac” McGee painted “McGee Airways” on the side of a three-passenger plane and started flying supplies out of Anchorage, Alaska.  

Born out of the need to get goods across a rugged landscape with no roads, the start-up eventually merged with another airline, and then another, and soon became Alaska Airlines. Employees needed to be industrious–we had pilots kicking the tires and paying for jet fuel themselves, airport employees shooing away stray caribou from the runways, and others pitching in to unload supplies at their final destination across Alaska.

Soaring through the decades 

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Connecting communities where we live, work and fly 

Even though these colorful anecdotes are from way back when, their values still drive who we are today as an airline. We’re all about staying connected to the communities we serve. Just ask Brad C., a 28-year sales and marketing manager in the state of Alaska. Brad moved from Phoenix to Anchorage to take a job in sales for the airline and quickly learned that hiking boots and jeans were the way to fit in with his customers.  

“When I wore nice pants, they immediately asked me if I was from Seattle,” Brad laughed.  

It’s about truly understanding the community—his sales calls extend beyond travel agencies to include civic centers, hospitals, and even the local high school. 

“We’re the school bus for sports teams, the ambulance for transport to medical appointments, the delivery truck that brings in their milk and eggs,” Brad says of the airline’s importance to such remote communities as Nome, Kotzebue and Bethel in the northernmost part of the state.  

In December 2020, Alaska Airlines transported the first COVID-19 vaccines to frontline healthcare workers, reaching some of the most rural communities in the state of Alaska. Full story here.

Recently, we flew a planeload of bottled water to Kotzebue to hydrate high school athletes playing in a tournament. “The city was having some issues with its water, so we jumped in to help,” Brad said. 

A small-town gesture isn’t unusual for us.  

When a guest flew into Sitka to pay respects at his father’s grave, and discovered the absence of ride-share services, our airport employee Elaine O., generously offered her car keys. “It was the right thing to do,” she said, loaning her car to the guest.  

Read full story here

“This type of thing happens all the time,” Brad said. “It’s part of who we are as an airline. Even though we’ve grown, our small-town roots run deep.”  

The Alaska Spirit 

Our airline’s spirit comes from not only caring for the people who fly with us, but also the challenging environment we face daily (especially in the great state of Alaska).

Our employees are hardier than most—unloading planes in sub-zero temps, changing a tire in a blizzard and flying into snow-and fog-socked airports is just another day at the office for our employees. Maybe those old-school anecdotes aren’t just history after all.  

In fact, it was these challenging conditions that inspired Alaska’s pilots to pioneer a GPS-based navigation system called Required Navigational Performance (RNP) to allow us to reliably serve rural airports like Juneau. “RNP was a game-changer” says Captain Bret P, managing director of network operations control. 

“The technology leveled the playing field, making landing in extreme weather and challenging topography as safe as landing at LAX,” he said.     

Bret, who has been a pilot with Alaska for 24 years, loves flying to small towns in Alaska. He finds it particularly meaningful when he sees the crew unloading essential supplies such as vegetables, kids’ bikes and more, underscoring the vital role Alaska Airlines plays in supporting these communities. 

Our path forward 

This dedication to the state where we grew up, this Alaska grit, is the glue that holds us together as an airline—and its why these stories of our humble beginnings are handed down from veteran employees to new hires. Because no matter how much we’ve grown, it’s important that we all remember how an obscure little airline from America’s 49th state has continued to strive and thrive for 92 years—through, grit, guts and determination. 

Alaska Airlines now flies nonstop between Anchorage and New York City 

We offer the only nonstop service connecting Alaska and New York JFK
for summertime adventures; we’ll have the most nonstop destinations ever this summer from Anchorage 

Just as the long days of summer have engulfed the state of Alaska, Alaska Airlines launched seasonal nonstop service today between Anchorage and New York JFK. It’s the only nonstop service between the two airports. Flights are available for purchase at alaskaair.com for daily flights through Aug. 19. 

Book now

Our new nonstop between the Big Apple and the Great Land offers New Yorkers an easier option to get away and enjoy the wilds of Alaska with its countless outdoor adventures, rich Alaska Native culture, wild Alaska seafood, jaw-dropping scenery and history-filled towns.    

Alaskans love travel options and love them even more when they include nonstop flights,” said Marilyn Romano, regional vice president of Alaska for Alaska Airlines. “Our new service to New York JFK is a perfect addition to our flight schedule for Alaskans wanting some adventure in one of the world’s most dynamic cities, and for New Yorkers eager for new experiences in our great state.” 

At 3,385 miles, our Anchorage-New York JFK route is the longest in our network. We’ve scheduled this service with our new 737-8 aircraft. It has the longest range of any plane in our fleet. 

Route schedule

Click to enlarge

All times local 

This summer, we’re flying to 14 nonstop destinations from Anchorage to the Lower 48 and Hawaii: Chicago, Denver, Honolulu, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Minneapolis, New York JFK, Phoenix, Portland, Salt Lake City, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle and Seattle/Everett (Paine Field). 

Our guests 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 and earn Mileage Plan miles with our domestic and global partners directly at alaskaair.com. 

For inflight entertainment, our guests can enjoy hundreds of free movies and TV shows streamed to their devices. Our flights are also enabled with streaming-fast satellite Wi-Fi available for purchase and the option to pre-order from a range of fresh meal selections. Our mainline flights also offer power outlets at every seat to charge devices. 

* Out of any U.S. airline excluding lie-flat seats   

Progress continues as Alaska Airlines negotiates a new, market-competitive flight attendant contract 

You’ve probably heard that we’re in active contract negotiations with our flight attendants through their union, the Association of Flight Attendants (AFA). We have a strong history of successfully negotiating with our union partners and reaching agreements that benefit employees while also securing the long-term success of the company.  

We agree with our flight attendants that we need a new contract, which is why we’ve been working hard to get an agreement. We recently passed a comprehensive economic proposal that included boarding pay, wage, per diem and set future wage increases, industry standard Ratio-in-Guarantee (RIG; a common component of Flight Attendant pay throughout the industry), and a two-year duration. We’ve also closed more than 50 tentative agreements – representing dozens of topics where we’ve found common ground.  

We remain optimistic in the negotiations process and are committed to reaching an agreement that pays our flight attendants the increased wages they deserve while also preserving our business model. With seven recently closed labor deals at the company, including a new contract for our aircraft maintenance technicians reached in February, we’re hopeful to do the same for our flight attendants as soon as possible. AFA and Alaska leadership have met two times in the last month and are continuing to bargain and meet with a mediator. The graphic below illustrates the negotiating process. We are currently in the “Mediation” phase. 

Additionally, you may see off-duty flight attendants demonstrating in various hubs today as part of the union’s mobilization efforts. We respect and support the right of our flight attendants to engage in these activities and do not expect any disruption to our operation or service as a result. 

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