Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi celebrations and mentorship take flight at Hawaiian Airlines

February 27, 2026
Community
Hawaiian Airlines
26 min read

Editor’s note: To inspire our readers’ language-learning journey, this story is offered in both English and ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi. We encourage reading both paragraph versions to deepen understanding of Hawaiʻi’s native language.

Mai ka liko a ka lāʻele, ʻanoʻai ke aloha iā kākou a pau loa. Ua lilo ka ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi i pulakaumaka ma ka Hui Waʻalele ʻo Hawaiian nei e ʻāwili pū ana i ke aloha nui no ka ʻōlelo makuahine me nā lālā o ka ʻohana, ko ke kaiaulu a nui, e me nā hoa aloha pū kekahi. ʻO kekahi kuleana o kākou ʻo ia ka hoʻopūlama manaʻo ʻana i waena o nā kānaka ʻakahiʻakahi o ke aʻo ʻana a hiki i nā mānaleo nāna ke kahu ʻana i ko kākou ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi ʻana i loko o nā home, nā kahua hana e me ka ola.

Throughout February, Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian Language Month) takes center stage at Hawaiian Airlines, uniting employees as they share their love for ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi with guests, their families, their communities and each other. At its core, the month is about inspiring and empowering speakers, of all ages and skill levels, who continue to normalize a language that was once nearly extinct by using it in their homes, workplaces and everyday life.

I kēia makahiki no ka manawa ʻelua o ka welo o ia papahana i hoʻokipa ʻia ai ma ke kahua hana o ka Hui Waʻalele ʻo Hawaiian he 11 mau haumāna mai loko mai nō o Ke Kula Kaiapuni ʻo Ānuenue, ʻo ia kekahi kula ma lalo o ka malu o ka mokuʻāina ʻo Hawaiʻi. Ua laulima maila nā limahana i ʻano mākaukau ma ka ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi he ʻumikūmākahi e hoʻokipa ana i nā momi ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi o ko kākou kaiaulu. Aia nō ka nui o nā haumāna ma ka papa ʻumikūmākahi a i ka papa ʻumikūmālua, a ua holo koke ka manawa i ka mākaʻimākaʻi ʻana me nā mahele keʻena like ʻole o Honolulu. Ua kau pū lākou ma nā mīkini aʻo pailaka, ua hōʻike hoʻi nā kuene mokulele i kekahi mau hiʻohiʻona o ka papa aʻo, ua wehewehe ko nā kānaka halihali ʻukana i ke ʻano o ia hana a ua hōʻike akula kekahi ʻākena a me kekahi mea mālama mokulele i ke ʻano o ko lākou hana, pau pū me ka wehewehe ʻia ʻana o nā hana ʻē aʻe i loko o nā keʻena e hoʻopā ʻole aku ana i kekahi mokulele. He mea paha ia e pūlama ai ka manaʻo e lawelawe ua mau ʻōpio nei i ka hana ma Hawaiʻi ko kākou home aloha.

This year marked an extension of that effort. Employees from across workgroups welcomed 11 students and two educators from Oʻahu’s Ka Papahana Kaiapuni, a K-12 language immersion education program under the Hawaiʻi State Department of Education, as mentees for the day. The students, ages 17 and whose education is delivered primarily in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, spent the day doing hands-on activities across operational and training facilities at Hawaiian’s Honolulu hub. Pilots brought them into flight simulators, flight attendants demonstrated training tools and safety scenarios, cargo teams walked them through freighter operations and customer service agents showed how they care for guests — giving students a behind-the-scenes look at various aviation careers right in their home state.

No nā kānaka a pau ma ka Hui Mokulele ʻo Hawaiian he mea nui ka Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi i ʻoi aku ma mua o ka hoʻolauleʻa wale ʻana nō akā he hōʻoia kēia i ko kākou kuleana ma ko mākou ʻano he Hui Waʻalele no Hawaiʻi. Noʻu iho, i koʻu launa ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi ʻana, ua hohonu maila ka maopopo ʻana i nā loina, ka moʻolelo, a me nā kuleana Hawaiʻi. Ua haʻaheo ko mākou mau hoa hana i ka hāpai ʻana i ka ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi i luna. ʻAʻole e hala ko mākou kākoʻo i loko o ka makahiki holoʻokoʻa no nā hanauna e hiki mai ana.”

For all of us at Hawaiian Airlines, Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi is more than a celebration — it’s a reaffirmation of the responsibility we carry as Hawaiʻi’s airline. On a personal level, engaging with ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i – whether through language classes or everyday use – has deepened my understanding of how language carries cultural values, history and identity. Our teams take great pride in honoring and uplifting ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, and we remain committed year-round to supporting efforts that ensure its legacy and vitality for generations to come.”

Daniel Chun

Ke Kuhina Manakia o ke keʻena launa kaiaulu a me nā kuleana kūʻai ma ka Hui Waʻalele (Managing director of Hawaiʻi public affairs and sales), Hawaiian me ka Hui Mokulele ‘o Alaska (Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines)

He mea maʻamau i ka Hui Waʻalele ʻo Hawaiian ke kākoʻo i nā papahana ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi kula kaiapuni e holo ana mai ke kākoʻo ʻana i nā kula ma ka hana manawaleʻa me nā māla o ke kula, i ka hoʻolako ʻana i nā puke koʻikoʻi i nā hale waihona puke, a hiki i ka mālama ʻana i lā ʻoihana no nā haumāna o ia mau kula a i alakaʻi ʻia hoʻi e nā limahana I puka mai ia mau kula, a i ʻole nā limahana nāna ke keiki ma loko o ke kula kaiapuni.

Hawaiian Airlines has long supported Hawaiian language immersion programs, from sending volunteers to help restore schools’ native gardens and donating culturally significant educational books to inviting students to join the carrier’s youth career development and pathway programs. A number of its employees are also graduates of immersion programs or are parents with keiki (children) who have been or are currently students.

Ma waho aku hoʻi o ka hoʻokipa ʻana i nā ʻōpio kaiapuni i loko o ka Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi hoʻi i kākoʻo ʻia ai ka ʻoihana kū i ka ʻauhau ʻole ʻo Awaiaulu me ka puʻu kālā he $9,000 i mea e hoʻolako ʻia ai ʻaneʻane 150 mau kope o ka puke ʻo Waikaua Spoils of War ma ka ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi a me ka ʻōlelo Pelekania i nā kula kaiapuni he 13 a me nā hale waihona puke a pau o ka mokuʻāina ʻo Hawaiʻi. Ua kākoʻo mua ʻia hoʻi ua Awaiaulu nei me ka makana he $12,000 i ka makahiki 2023 i mea e hoʻolaha ai i nā puke ʻo Ke Kumu Apuni: The Foundation of Hawaiian Nationhood – he papahana unuhi hoʻi i nā moʻolelo a Samuel Mānaiakalani Kamakau i ke aupuni mōʻī o Hawaiʻi nei, a ua makana ʻia hoʻi i nā kula he 34 kekahi. Eia hou aku, i ka makahiki 2025 i kākoʻo ka Hawaiian Airlines Foundation i ka Pūnana Leo o Lahaina, he kula kaiapuni i pōpilikia ma muli o nā ahi laha o Maui i kōkua i ke kūkulu hou ʻana i ia kula no nā kamaliʻi ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi o laila.

In addition to welcoming Ka Papahana Kaiapuni students this month, Hawaiian contributed $9,000 to the nonprofit Awaiaulu to fund the donation of nearly 150 copies of Waikaua Spoils of War in both ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi and English to 13 Hawaiian language schools and public libraries across Hawaiʻi. The donation adds to its support of local immersion programs, including a $12,000 donation it made in 2023 to Awaiaulu to aid in the distribution of copies of Ke Kumu Aupuni: The Foundation of Hawaiian Nationhood — a bilingual translation of Samuel Mānaiakalani Kamakau’s 19th-century historical writings — to 34 campuses statewide. In 2025, the Hawaiian Airlines Foundation gifted $50,000 to West Maui’s Pūnana Leo o Lahaina, an immersion preschool impacted by the Lahaina wildfires, to help the school rebuild while it continues to nurture Maui’s youngest ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi students.

Eia aʻe kekahi mau ʻano e hoʻohanohano ai nā ʻōhua a me nā ʻohana i ka ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi I loko o ka Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi a ma hope aku kekahi. Eia ʻekolu mau mea:

Guests and their families can join the Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi celebrations this month and beyond. Here are three simple ways to get involved:

E aʻo mai i nā hua ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi iā ʻoe e lele ana me mākou. E makaʻala i nā unuhi a me nā hua ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi i loko o ko mākou mau mokulele ma ke ʻano o kona nānā ʻana, e laʻa me nā helu noho, nā hōʻailona i loko, a me nā papa inoa ma nā ʻīpuka komo. Ua hiki pū ke hoʻoili i kekahi palapala me nā ʻano ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi, a ua loaʻa pū nā pepa kala no nā keiki me nā māhele o ka mokulele A330, pau pū me nā pono o nā mea halihali ukana o ka hui mokulele.
Learn ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi words along your journey. Keep an eye out for translations incorporated into the aircraft’s design, including seat numbers, interior signage and the special nameplates near the main doorway. Guests can also download a helpful phrase sheet to practice on their own and keiki can have fun with coloring sheets that introduce translated words for different parts of the Airbus A330, along with common tools and employee roles found on the ramp.

E hōʻiliʻili i nā kāleka pailaka ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi. Hiki i nā ʻōhua ke nīele aku i nā pailaka ma nā mokulele A330, a i ʻole nā hoa hana ʻē aʻe ma ia mau mokulele, i kāleka kūikawā ma ka ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi piha. He kākaʻikahi nō a ʻaʻole e loaʻa ana iā lākou i nā manawa a pau No laila, ua hiki i nā ʻōhua a me nā hoa kaiaulu ke hoʻoili i ke kāleka uila ma ʻaneʻi nei.
Collect the exclusive Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi pilot card. Guests on Hawaiian’s A330 flights can ask a pilot or crewmember if they have an exclusive trading card. Supplies are limited, and not every pilot may have the translated edition on hand. Travelers can also scan this QR code to collect the digital card.

HA crew holding up the Hawaiian language trading card

Hahai iā @HawaiianAirlines ma Instagram no nā moʻolelo ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi e leʻaleʻa ai a e kākoʻo ana i ka ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi ma Hawaiʻi nei a i ka Hui Waʻalele ʻo Hawaiian kekahi.
Follow @HawaiianAirlines on Instagram for more stories that uplift ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi and share why the language matters to Hawaiʻi and Hawaiian Airlines.

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Start spring early and see the world with Atmos™ Rewards Global Getaways

February 17, 2026
Destinations Loyalty
Alaska Airlines
28 min read

Rear view of a man walking on the Charles Bridge in Prague, Czech Republic

Summary

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Atmos™ Rewards Global Getaways offers members up to 60% off award tickets to select destinations, allowing travel between Feb. 27 and May 12.

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The theme for this quarter is “Spring Comes Early,” to encourage members to check out some amazing destinations across the globe, at a time of year where there are fewer crowds.

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Featured destinations include Copenhagen, Helsinki, Hokkaido, Munich, Prague and Vienna, with redemption starting at 17,500 points.

Welcome to this quarter’s Atmos™ Rewards Global Getaways , where members can redeem points for award tickets at up to 60% off main cabin travel to select destinations with Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and their global partners. This quarter’s theme – “Spring Comes Early” – invites members to explore some amazing locations around the globe at a time of year when there are fewer crowds.

Atmos Rewards members must book their tickets between Feb. 17 and 27 for travel between Feb. 27 and May 12. Book now at alaskaair.com.

Featured destinations

Nyhavn water front canal and touristic street at night

Copenhagen, Denmark

Now starting at 20,000 points

The Danish capital is known for its rich cultural scene, excellent food and picturesque waterfront. From relaxing in nature and enjoying hygge, to thrill-seeking at local theme parks like Legoland or Tivoli Gardens and exploring historic castles, Copenhagen has something to offer to all ages.

Let’s go!

Helsinki, Finland

Now starting at 17,500 points

Explore the charming seaside capital of the world’s happiest country. Be immersed in sauna culture, stroll through outdoor markets and marvel at Finnish design and architecture.

Let’s go!

Beautiful morning in Akan lake and mountain oakan

Hokkaido, Japan

Now starting at 20,000 points

Japan’s northernmost island is known for its striking natural beauty and relaxed pace of life. Snowshoe in Daisetsuzan National Park, hit the slopes for spring skiing or experience the cherry blossoms in full bloom in this captivating destination.

Let’s go!

Munich, Germany

Now starting at 30,000 points

The capital and largest city of Bavaria blends old world charm with modern energy. Tour world-class museums, raise a glass at the city’s historic beer halls and enjoy inspiring alpine views.

Let’s go!

Prague, Czech Republic

Now starting at 30,000 points

Prague is a storybook city famed for its medieval architecture and timeless charm. With winding cobblestone streets, grand bridges and world-class beer, this enchanting destination is certain to amaze.

Let’s go!

Vienna, Austria

Now starting at 20,000 points

Enjoy the city’s unique blend of beauty and sophistication. Sip coffee in one of its many cafes, listen to classical music in stunning concert halls and admire impressive Baroque architecture.

Let’s go!

Redemption details

Exploring the world with Atmos Reward is just one of the many perks of the No. 1 airline loyalty program, according to U.S. News & World Report for 2025-2026. Members can earn points faster when they fly with Alaska, Hawaiian, oneworld alliance members and their global partners to more than 1,000 destinations worldwide.

Alaska has streamlined the process of booking award redemptions and buying tickets with partners at alaskaair.com. The updated charts make it easier to see how many points are required for flights to various regions, with partner award travel starting at just 4,500 points one-way for short trips.

Don’t miss out on this exclusive benefit. It’s the perfect time to explore world-class destinations.

Visit alaskaair.com

About Alaska Air Group

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

Every day is Galentine’s Day for these Alaska Airlines besties

February 13, 2026
People
Alaska Airlines
12 min read

Some friendships feel meant to be. For flight attendants Lisa and Michelle, their story started long before they first donned an Alaska Airlines uniform more than 20 years ago.

They met as kids in the late 1980s — Lisa was 5 and Michelle 10 — and grew up as neighbors, family friends and schoolmates. In 2004, by chance, they graduated from subsequent Alaska flight attendant training classes and months later were assigned to the same flight. For years, whenever their schedules overlapped, they worked side by side, catching up in the galley and strengthening a bond that already felt lifelong.

In 2014, over dinner on a New York City layover, one simple question changed everything: “Why don’t we buddy bid?” That moment sparked a 12‑year tradition of bidding for and working on the same trips. Now, if you see Lisa on your Alaska flight, chances are Michelle is nearby.

“Working together feels effortless. We can read each other, anticipate what the other needs and assist each other in difficult situations,” Michelle said. Their chemistry shows in the cabin — fun, intuitive and always in sync. They carpool to the airport, plan their work meals and spend layovers exploring, shopping or catching up with fellow crew friends. They share a love of sports too, with memories of cheering on the Knicks in Manhattan and the Saints during a New Orleans layover.

Outside of work, Lisa and Michelle live 10 minutes apart, talk daily and raise their families with shared values and traditions like annual summer camping trips along the Columbia River. They’ve been there for every milestone, from weddings to their kids’ birthdays, and use their employee travel perks for girls’ trips to Amsterdam, Seoul, Zihuatanejo and Cabo San Lucas in Mexico and Nashville – with London next on the list.

After decades of friendship, thousands of miles flown and countless memories made, their connection continues to grow. For them, Galentine’s Day is a celebration of the best kind of love — the kind shared between two friends.

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Alaska Airlines earns top-employer recognition, rewards employees with nearly three weeks of extra pay

February 12, 2026
Company
Alaska Airlines
15 min read

Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines tails

Summary

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Employees at Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and Horizon Air will receive nearly three weeks of additional pay through the company’s Performance‑Based Pay program.

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The bonus payout comes as Alaska Airlines was celebrated as a top employer in 2026 by Glassdoor.

Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and Horizon Air entered the new year with record momentum, fueled by more innovation, milestone achievements and growth opportunities than in any other chapter of their nearly 200 years of combined experience. Powering that progress are the more than 32,000 employees dedicated to safety, care and delivering exceptional travel experiences worldwide.

Alaska and Hawaiian employees in front of the two aircraft tails

This week, employees throughout the organization will receive nearly three weeks of additional pay under its Performance-Based Pay (PBP) program — a reward for their commitment to care and performance. PBP unites employees around shared goals tied to safety, financial performance and guest experience, going beyond traditional profit-sharing programs.

I’m incredibly grateful for the teams across our combined company who came together to finish 2025 strong and set us up well for 2026 and beyond. We’re in one of the most exciting and transformational chapters in our history, and it’s our people who make it possible. Their award-winning service and commitment to excellence continue to set Alaska, Hawaiian and Horizon apart in the industry.”

Paul Sale

Managing director of total rewards, Alaska Airlines

Alaska has long been recognized as a leading employer.

The combined company was recently named as one of only two airlines on Glassdoor’s Top 100 Best Places to Work in 2026, an honor based entirely on anonymous employee feedback.

Pilot and flight attendant greeting each other

The global airline is poised for another transformative year under Alaska Accelerate, its plan to propel scale, relevance and loyalty by inspiring its employees and connecting guests to the world through remarkable travel experiences rooted in safety, care and performance.

Learn about Alaska Accelerate

Explore careers at Alaska Airlines

Ben Brookman promoted to vice president of real estate and airport affairs for Alaska Airlines

February 12, 2026
Company
Alaska Airlines
19 min read

Summary

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With 17 years in the airline industry, Brookman will lead Alaska’s global real estate strategy and investments across all airports.

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In addition to new international destinations, Alaska is investing more than $3 billion in hub airports to create a world-class guest experience at every step of the journey.

Ben Brookman has been promoted to vice president of real estate and airport affairs at Alaska Airlines. The growing real estate portfolio is another step in Alaska’s strategic vision to connect guests to the world with a remarkable travel experience rooted in safety, care and performance.

Brookman will lead the team responsible for Alaska’s strategy for airport access, infrastructure and corporate real estate, in support of long-term network growth for both the Alaska and Hawaiian brands and ensuring safe, reliable and efficient operations.

In addition to new international destinations, Alaska is investing more than $3 billion in hub airports to create a world-class guest experience at every step of the journey. As Alaska and Hawaiian move forward as one team with two beloved brands, the network now spans more than 140 destinations, including 29 international markets throughout North America, Latin America, Asia and the Pacific, as well as Europe starting in spring.

Brookman reports to Shane Jones, senior vice president of fleet, revenue products and real estate, who leads an increasingly complex and strategically important portfolio on the commercial team.

This is a transformational moment for our airline as we add new international destinations to our route map that our guests want and elevate the experience at every step of their journey. Ben’s deep aviation background and extensive negotiations and infrastructure experience make him the ideal leader for our real estate team as we expand into our global network.”

Shane Jones

Senior vice president of fleet, revenue products and real estate, Alaska Airlines

Growing our global team

Brookman has served as Managing Director of Airport Affairs since November 2021. In this role he has led the team responsible for Alaska’s airport planning efforts, including master planning and contract negotiations across the airline’s global network. In that time, he played a key role in developing Alaska’s long-term airport infrastructure strategy, the integration of Alaska & Hawaiian’s airport locations, and coordinating airport development efforts, lease negotiations, and operating agreements.

Brookman’s previous Alaska experience includes serving as Director of Network and Capacity Planning, helping grow Alaska’s hometown Seattle hub and developing its Portland and San Diego networks. Prior to returning to Alaska in 2021, he served in Commercial and Real Estate roles at Sun Country Airlines, US Airways, and Amazon Air.

Connecting our guests to the world

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

Rome, Italy: Daily, summer seasonal flights beginning April 28, 2026

London Heathrow, United Kingdom: Daily, year-round flights beginning May 21, 2026

Reykjavik, Iceland: Daily, summer seasonal flights beginning May 28, 2026

Tokyo Narita, Japan: Daily, year-round flights that are now flying

Seoul Incheon, South Korea: five-times weekly, year-round flights that are now flying.

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

Visit hawaiianairlines.com

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About Alaska Air Group

Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines introduce spring menus featuring regional favorites and chef-led dining

February 11, 2026
Guest Experience
Alaska Airlines
24 min read

Summary

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Designed for the season, Alaska Airlines’ new spring menu celebrates Pacific Northwest partnerships with comforting favorites like Beecher’s Mac & Cheese, balanced by fresh, seasonal and plant-forward offerings

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Hawaiian Airlines is refreshing its domestic First Class dining with new menus by Chef Robynne Maii and Chef Wade Ueoka bringing thoughtfully crafted, island-inspired comfort on flights between Hawaiʻi and the U.S. Continent

Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines are welcoming spring with the launch of new seasonal menus, bringing fresh flavors, thoughtful sourcing and chef-inspired dishes to guests. The seasonal menu refresh reflects each airline’s distinct culinary identity while celebrating the vibrant ingredients and regional influences of the West Coast and the Hawaiian Islands.

As Seattle’s hometown airline, Alaska is proud to partner with regional favorites that reflect where we come from and what our guests love; Beecher’s Mac & Cheese is a natural fit for our menu: iconic, high-quality and unmistakably local.”

Todd Traynor-Corey

Vice president of guest experience & products , Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines introduces iconic Pacific Northwest favorites and fresh, globally inspired dishes

Guests flying on Alaska Airlines within North America and Hawaiʻi can enjoy the new onboard menu now available for pre-order across all cabins, featuring comforting favorites and fresh spring options.

The First Class menu refresh includes seasonal selections designed to bring bright flavor to the skies. New offerings include Banana Crêpes, Lemon Pesto Spaghetti with Grilled Chicken, and a Lemongrass Pork Sandwich — each highlighting fresh ingredients and the season’s vibrant palate. Staying onboard by popular demand are the breakfast Parmesan Eggs & Bacon and Tillamook Cheeseburger, both longtime guest favorites.

Headlining Alaska’s new Main Cabin offerings on medium- to long-haul within North America is Beecher’s Mac & Cheese, from the iconic Seattle cheesemaker in Pike Place Market. Alaska’s culinary team spent nearly two years perfecting the onboard version of Beecher’s beloved dish, which was previously named as one of Oprah’s Favorite Things.

Featuring Beecher’s signature, award-winning Flagship cheese, penne pasta and a crisp breadcrumb topping, this dish delivers the same crave-worthy flavor passengers know and love, reimagined for flight.

As the first U.S. domestic carrier to launch a comprehensive domestic food pre-order program, Alaska offers more fresh food choices on domestic routes than any other U.S. airline, delivering a premium dining experience for guests in every cabin. Experience our industry-leading pre-order program by downloading the Alaska Airlines app today. Pre-orders are available up to 14 days in advance and until roughly 20 hours before takeoff, including at least one hot meal option on flights over 1,100* miles, and feature favorites like the Signature Fruit & Cheese Platter.

In addition to the Beecher’s debut, Alaska’s popular Evergreens menu expands this season with the new Med In The Clouds, a Mediterranean‑inspired, plant‑forward option. Following the strong guest response to a recent vegan and gluten‑free bowl, we’re continuing that trend with this fresh, flavorful addition. Packed with bold flavors and wholesome ingredients — including a quinoa and lettuce base, fresh vegetables, olives and a lemon‑tahini dressing — it’s perfect for guests seeking a lighter, satisfying meal. Meeting the diverse dietary needs of guests remains a top priority.

Guests seated in Main Cabin will also enjoy a new Antipasto Platter — a thoughtfully curated assortment of premium ingredients, including cured meats, candied walnuts and marinated mozzarella balls — perfect for elevated snacking or light dining.

This spring menu cycle is now available for pre-order and will debut onboard on Feb. 25.

220406_NLC_firstclass_premiumclass_MAX_083

Hawaiian Airlines elevates inflight dining with Chef Robynne Maii and Chef Wade Ueoka’s new menu

Hawaiian Airlines is proud to introduce its refreshed domestic First Class menu crafted by acclaimed Honolulu‑born chef Robynne Maii, whose thoughtful, locally rooted culinary style has shaped kitchens from O‘ahu to New York City. Chef Maii, a long-time partner of Hawaiian, brings a refined yet comforting approach to in‑flight dining.

First Class guests from Hawaiʻi to the U.S. Continent can enjoy island‑inspired dishes now available onboard, including a smoked mozzarella frittata with Portuguese sausage served with fresh fruit, a basil Caesar salad paired with roasted chicken and ginger scallion fried rice, a beef & kimchi hand pie, ratatouille parmesan baked ziti and Lasagna alla Norma.

Building on her successful partnership with Hawaiian Airlines and continuing as one of the airline’s Featured Chefs, Chef Maii’s new menu brings the flavors of home to the skies from the moment guests step onboard.

Inbound First Class meals to Hawaiʻi will continue to be created by Chef Wade Ueoka of Honolulu’s MW restaurant with new options including braised miso beef, grilled kalbi with kimchi fried rice, mushroom risotto cakes, pasta in a white wine cream sauce and vegetable cobb salad.

This spring, we’re excited to share our chef-inspired menu, crafted with the freshest local ingredients; thank you to our talented chef partners for bringing the spirit of aloha to guests this season. At Alaska and Hawaiian, we’re redefining inflight dining with a culinary experience that excites our guests and elevates the journey before they even touch down.”

Todd Traynor-Corey

Vice president of guest experience & products, Alaska Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines A330 Reef Runway header

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About Alaska Air Group

Alaska Airlines and Portland Trail Blazers host third annual HBCU to the Pros Weekend

February 10, 2026
Community
Alaska Airlines
15 min read

Summary

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Presented by Alaska Airlines, Prairie View A&M and Southern University and A&M College Marching Bands to Engage with the Portland Community and Perform at Halftime on February 20 vs. Denver Nuggets

The Portland Trail Blazers and Alaska Airlines are teaming up for the third annual HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) to the Pros weekend later this month, an expansive weekend of community engagement and performances showcasing the HBCU experience across Portland. For the first time, the weekend will feature marching bands from two Universities. Members of the Southern University (Baton Rouge, Louisiana) Human Jukebox Marching Band, along with members of the Prairie View A&M (Prairie View, Texas) Marching Storm Band, will fly to Portland, courtesy of Portland’s #1 airline Alaska Airlines, for a weekend celebrating the HBCU experience and HBCU / D9 alumni. The highlight of the weekend will be a special halftime performance during the Trail Blazers matchup against the Denver Nuggets on February 20.

The weekend celebration will kick off on Thursday, February 19, with a free community event at Portland Community College Cascade Gym (600 N Killingsworth St., Portland OR, 97217) beginning at 4:30 p.m. The event will be free and open to the public, and feature performances from local dance and music groups, tabling from various groups including D9 alumni and both universities, and the first performances of the weekend from the Marching Storm Band and Human Jukebox Marching Band in Portland. Prior to the game on Friday evening, both organizations will host a private HBCU Legacy Mixer for local high school students featuring a college and career exploration event focused on creating and living your legacy, with current professionals who are HBCU alumni and members of fraternities and sororities of the Divine 9 at Veterans Memorial Coliseum.

Fans will have multiple opportunities to enjoy the unforgettable experience of both bands throughout the game night. Prior to tip, catch the bands participating in the Pregame Parade presented by Polar Beverages throughout the 100 and 300 Level concourses. At halftime, stay in your seats for a showstopping halftime performance with the bands taking over the Moda Center court with a legendary HBCU marching band performance that is sure to make you get up and dance. In addition to the band, the BlazerDancers will be joined by special guests from Southern’s Fabulous Dancing Dolls and PVAMU’s Black Foxes for a performance out on the court during a break in the game action.

In addition to numerous performances, the HBCU experience will be felt throughout Moda Center on February 20. DJ Drae Slapz, an international DJ and artist and member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., returns to Moda Center to mix tunes, providing the vibes as fans venture through the concourse. The Moda Center 100 Level concourse will feature posters highlighting HBCU alumni and D9 members who have made a significant cultural impact. Local Portland NPHC Alumni Chapter and HBCU Alumni will be highlighted throughout the night with special video tributes.

On Saturday, February 21, the weekend will close out with performances by both bands as part of Self Enhancement Inc.’s Culture + Commerce Market event. The event, hosted at the Tony Hopson, Sr. Center for Self Enhancement (3920 N Kerby Ave, Portland, OR 97227), is a Black History Month celebration that brings together culture, commerce, and community in a powerful way. The goal of the event is to curate an immersive cultural experience that uplifts Black brilliance while supporting Black-owned businesses. The event will also feature Alaska Airlines flight simulators, tabling from both Universities, and the NBA Foundation. Swing by for an interactive afternoon with the Portland Black community and a final send-off for the Human Jukebox Marching Band and Marching Storm Band.

“We are humbled by the generosity of all involved who have helped make this historic trip possible for Prairie View A&M University and the Marching Storm. We are excited to bring one of the most enjoyable Storms you will ever see for your Entertainment,” said Dr. Timmey Zachery, Director of Bands, Prairie View A&M University.

“We can’t wait to bring the Southern University Human Jukebox, Often Imitated But Never Duplicated, Marching Band to the great city of Portland – bringing the flavor of the Louisiana to the Pacific Northwest,” said Dr. Kedric Taylor, Director of Bands, Southern University and A&M College.

HBCU to the Pros gets better every year and it’s become something transformative for Portland, said Donald McKenzie, Florida A&M University Graduate and Active Member of The Portland (OR) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. “As a proud HBCU alum and member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., I see how deeply our youth need to witness authentic Black excellence up close. From highlighting local and transplant HBCU alumni to the bands coming to Rip City, this celebration carries history and leaves our city inspired.”

“HBCU to the Pros weekend is back for a third consecutive year, and we’re really excited to expand the weekend this year with not one, but two incredible bands, said Michelle Jalali, Senior Director of Strategic Impact Initiatives & DEI, Portland Trail Blazers. “Our partnership with Alaska Airlines on this impactful weekend is one of the most inspiring moments of the year, and we look forward to bringing the culture, traditions, music and showstopping performances of the Marching Storm Band and Human Jukebox Marching Band to the Portland community.

“We have been Portland’s #1 airline for decades, and last year added 13% more flights from PDX to get our guests to their favorite destinations nonstop. This is in addition to our continued partnerships with local businesses and the Portland community,” said Megan Ouellette, Vice President, Public and Government Affairs at Alaska Airlines. “We are thrilled to team up with the Trail Blazers on this inspiring event for the third consecutive year, providing students with the opportunity to experience two HBCUs.”

In alignment with the NBA, the Trail Blazers prioritize highlighting the traditions and impact of HBCUs and the contributions of Black leaders who belong to historically Black fraternities and sororities and alumni of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. HBCUs have served as cultural and intellectual hubs, fostering a sense of identity, pride, and leadership development. They have contributed significantly to Black culture, literature, arts, and sciences and we are excited to showcase those contributions to Rip City throughout the weekend. As the NBA team the farthest from an HBCU, bringing the HBCU experience to Portland invites the local community, specifically Black youth, to get a taste of the rich history, traditions, and culture that HBCU’s embody.

HBCUs play an important role in Alaska’s commitment to the communities it serves. Driven by the belief that education can transform the lives of young people Alaska supports programs like United Negro College Fund (UNCF), the nation’s largest and most effective minority education organization. To date, the airline has partnered with UNCF to launch a special aircraft livery symbolizing a joint commitment to creating opportunities in education, and established UNCF as an Atmos Giving partner, enabling Atmos Rewards members to donate their points to students flying out for college tours or flying home to be with their families on summer and holiday breaks. As part of the aircraft’s mission, Alaska has also supported several college tours and career and leadership development events.

Stay tuned for more details on activations throughout the night and weekend.

Visit alaskaair.com

About Alaska Air Group

ICYMI: Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines debut new brand campaigns in time for the Big Game

February 9, 2026
Company
Alaska Airlines
19 min read

While fans across America tuned into Sunday’s Big Game, Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines made their mark with new, standout commercials that celebrate each brand’s distinct identity.

Flight Attendants Walkings Through Mauka Concourse HNL_mid

“We Fly for Hawaiʻi”

Hawaiian Airlines’ 96-year legacy as Hawaiʻi’s carrier is at the heart of its new spot, “We Fly for Hawaiʻi,” now airing across the Hawaiian Islands. The campaign features content made and submitted by the airline’s employees, highlighting their pride in connecting Island communities with each other and the world, and sharing Hawaiʻi’s culture with guests near and far.

Flying for Hawaiian and being part of this campaign is my way of honoring our legacy of mālama — caring for others the way we care for our own, fostering connection and carrying Hawaiʻi with us wherever we fly.”

Thalia A.

Flight attendant, Hawaiian Airlines

The commercial is the first in a yearlong series that will feature stories by Hawaiʻi, for Hawaiʻi — celebrating the ways kamaʻāina (residents) fly Hawaiian for work, to visit friends and family and to get a head start on their vacation.

Do you want to be featured in the next commercial? Instagram users can share their favorite Hawai‘i moments with Hawaiian Airlines for a chance to be featured by using #WeFlyForHawaii.

“Welcome to Alaska Airlines”

Alaska Airlines’ newest spot, which debuted during the Big Game, invites viewers to let their imagination soar and explore the world with the fourth largest global carrier in the U.S.

Our campaign draws on the daydreams of a global traveler and tells a story of what sets Alaska apart: a growing international network, new premium offerings and the genuine care our guests know us for across all cabins.”

Eric Edge

Vice president of brand and marketing, Alaska Airlines

“Welcome to Alaska Airlines” is now playing throughout the West Coast, showcasing Alaska’s growing domestic and international reach and premium offerings – most notably its Business Class lie–flat suites on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The ad’s dreamlike vignettes take viewers through a whimsical journey in the clouds, from surreal floating tea spreads in London to oversized mounds of gelato nestled among Roman architecture.

Visit alaskaair.com

Visit hawaiianairlines.com

Snowy temples, fewer crowds and onsen bliss: Why Japan shines in the winter

February 4, 2026
Destinations
Chris Dong
27 min read

Japan is a destination shaped by the seasons. In the winter months, when crowds thin and snow often falls, I love traveling both to Tokyo and the quieter towns at the outskirts of the metropolis.

In early January, I flew from Seattle to Tokyo on Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines’ daily nonstop flight to reset my mind for the year ahead. My five-day itinerary took me from the crisp, clear air of Tokyo (with uninterrupted views of Mt. Fuji) to the quiet town of Nikko, home to forested mountains, hot springs and snow-dusted shrines.

Here’s why a visit to Japan is a must in winter — and how I made the most of my off-season trip with Alaska and Hawaiian.

Winter is Japan’s most peaceful season

While spring and fall are typically the most popular periods to visit Japan (think: cherry blossoms and vibrant foliage), it’s also rewarding to explore in the winter shoulder months. During the cold season, the ambiance feels noticeably calmer (as long as you’re outside of the big ski towns). Tokyo’s alleyways in neighborhoods like Shinjuku and Ginza remain lively, but they’re no longer as packed with pedestrians. It’s easier to book Shinkansen tickets or enter historic sites like Senso-ji. And a hot, steaming bowl of ramen or soba simply hits harder.

Venture even slightly beyond Tokyo, as I did, and some places can feel entirely your own.

From landing in Tokyo to onsen bliss

Alaska and Hawaiian’s Seattle-Tokyo flight, which debuted earlier last year, lands in Japan’s capital in the mid-afternoon. That time frame is an ideal window to clear the airport, take the train into the city, grab a light dinner and turn in early to be refreshed for the days ahead.

That’s exactly how I arranged my first night. The next morning, I was on a two-hour train bound for the mountain village of Nikko, an onsen town renowned for traditional hot spring baths and a gorgeous natural setting.

When I began wandering through the area, snow flurries settled over the UNESCO-listed shrines and temples, and for a moment, it felt as though the town had slowed just for me. I explored architectural and cultural landmarks, like Toshogu Shrine, a vast, lavishly decorated complex that’s the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, Japan’s first shogun (military general). And because it was winter, there were no lines to enter.

Next, I visited the magnificent Chuzenji Shrine, with panoramic views of the highest lake in Japan. It was particularly postcard-worthy because the roofs were covered in a fresh layer of snow.

In Nikko, I stayed at The Ritz-Carlton Nikko, a Marriott Bonvoy property about 40 minutes from the train station and conveniently located near area attractions. Kagan Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in the country and partially frozen in January, was only a five-minute trek on foot.

(Editor’s note: Atmos™ Rewards members can earn on qualifying hotel stays booked through Alaska Airlines Vacations or with participating partners, such as Marriott Bonvoy. Learn more about Alaska’s hotel partners.)

In addition to a refined Japanese dining venue, the hotel features a private, mineral-rich geothermal hot spring. It was my first time soaking in a natural onsen in Japan, and I was instantly hooked.

During my stay in Nikko, temperatures dipped as low as 18 degrees Fahrenheit. I found myself lingering in the onsen for hours, closing my eyes as steam rose and snow fell outside. It was easy to relax and slow down, especially after a day spent exploring. I finally understood why hot springs were such an essential part of Japanese winter travel.

Finding warmth back in Tokyo

Finally, it was time to head back to Tokyo for my last two nights. I arrived at Nikko’s train station a bit early and ducked into a small, family-run soba shop, where I was served a spectacular bowl of freshly made noodles. It’s one of the pleasures of wandering in Japan: some of the most memorable meals come from unassuming spots.

As a transportation enthusiast, I was particularly looking forward to the train journey aboard the Tobu Spacia X. Launched in 2023, Spacia X feels closer to a boutique hotel lobby on rails than a standard locomotive. In fact, I made sure to book a ticket in the “cockpit lounge,” the train’s first carriage, which lets passengers see unobstructed through the operator’s window.

Back in Tokyo, I made my way up to the 52nd-floor New York Bar at the newly reopened Park Hyatt Tokyo, an iconic setting made famous by the movie Lost in Translation. In winter, when skies are clearer and pollution levels tend to be lower, distant sights — like Mt. Fuji — are more likely to be visible. Sure enough, as the sun set with a drink in hand, I watched the mountain’s snow-covered peak form a striking silhouette.

The following day, I popped over to Ginza to browse its many shops in search of a vintage Japanese watch. Between stops, I ducked into Afuri, a ramen restaurant celebrated for its light, citrusy yuzu shio broth topped with charcoal-grilled pork. It was a warming and satisfying respite from the chill outside.

Business Class suites between Tokyo and Seattle

That sense of calm in Japan is carried through once it was time to fly home. Traveling between Tokyo and Seattle in Business Class on Alaska and Hawaiian’s Boeing 787 feels built for long‑haul comfort, with spacious private suites and lie‑flat beds.

One of the highlights of flying Business is the quality of the onboard dining. Passengers can preorder meals online in advance, choosing between Japanese, Hawaiian or Western options. Shortly after takeoff, I was served my Japanese selection, beginning with bite-sized appetizers — crab jelly, usui tofu, roasted duck breast, steamed anago surimi and a sweet potato ball — followed by umami chicken with seasonal vegetables, steamed rice, pickled vegetables and miso soup. It was a memorable, well-balanced dinner.

All menus on my flight were crafted by Hawaiian Airlines Executive Chefs Wade Ueoka and Michelle Karr-Ueoka of MW Restaurant in Honolulu. For Tokyo flights, Chef Mark Sekita of Mark’s Tokyo also puts his flair on the meals.

Final thoughts

Winter may not be Japan’s most obvious season, but that’s precisely what makes it special. Thanks to fewer crowds, clearer skies, and a slower pace, travelers can linger, reflect, and travel with intention. My experience felt rejuvenating — from the snow-covered shrines and restorative onsen soaks to wandering around Tokyo at twilight.

Now, with Alaska and Hawaiian’s Seattle-Tokyo nonstop, the winter season is an even smarter time to visit the country.

Book your winter escape to Japan

Aloha to big rewards: Millions of Atmos™ Rewards points up for grabs for Hawaiian Airlines World Elite Mastercard® cardmembers in 2026

February 2, 2026
Loyalty
Hawaiian Airlines
19 min read

Summary

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Hawaiian will award more than 44 million Atmos Rewards points to cardmembers through December

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Hawaiʻi resident cardmembers will earn a 50% bonus on Atmos Rewards points per $1 spent on all purchases up to 5,000 bonus points during the promotional period

Hawaiian Airlines today unveiled its most exciting credit card giveaway to date, designed to reward loyal cardmembers with unprecedented opportunities to earn and win Atmos Rewards points throughout 2026.

Today through Dec. 31, every transaction made with a Hawaiian Airlines^® World Elite Mastercard^® automatically counts as an entry into the year-long sweepstakes*.

Seven weekly winners will each receive 100,000 Atmos Rewards points.
One monthly grand prize winner will receive an incredible one million Atmos Rewards points. The more transactions cardmembers make, the more chances they have to win.
Promotion Dates: Feb. 1 – Dec. 31, 2026

Our most rewarding credit card promotion is our way to mahalo our most loyal guests and Hawaiian Airlines cardholders. We’re thrilled to give our cardmembers more ways to earn Atmos Rewards points with every purchase and bring them closer to taking a Neighbor Island trip or exploring the new reaches of our global network.”

Alisa Onishi

Managing director of Hawaiʻi marketing, Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines

To further celebrate our commitment to Hawaiʻi, cardmembers residing in Hawaiʻi will earn a 50% bonus on Atmos Rewards points per $1 spent on all purchases up to 5,000 bonus points during the promotional period. This special offer highlights Hawaiian Airlines’ dedication to its island home and provides unmatched value to local cardmembers. Visit hawaiianairlines.com/greatpointsgiveaway for more information.

Atmos Rewards recognizes the importance of air travel for Hawai‘i residents and is making Neighbor Island travel more rewarding than ever — with members earning up to five times more points on flights between the Islands. Plus, Neighbor Island award redemptions start at just 4,500 points one-way — making it easier than ever to visit family, attend events or explore the Islands.

The Hawaiian Airlines^® World Elite Mastercard^® gives cardmembers more ways to earn Atmos Rewards points, enjoy exclusive travel perks and save on flights — making it one of the most rewarding airline cards. Popular benefits include:

Companion discounts

Celebrate your account anniversary and receive an annual $100-off companion discount valid for 12 months from your anniversary date. The discount is valid for roundtrip travel between Hawai‘i and North America destinations on Hawaiian Airlines-operated flights or roundtrip North America main cabin travel on Alaska Airlines-operated flights.

Two free checked bags

Receive two free checked bags on eligible flights for the primary cardmember when you use your card to purchase eligible tickets directly from Hawaiian Airlines or Alaska Airlines.

Status points

Get closer to Atmos Rewards status with qualifying purchases on your Hawaiian Airlines^® World Elite Mastercard^®. Earn one status point for every $3 spent with no limit on the number of status points you can earn.

Earn

Earn three points for every $1 spent on eligible Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines purchases. Earn two points for every $1 spent on eligible gas, dining, and grocery store purchases. Earn one point per $1 spent on all other purchases. There is no limit to the total Atmos Rewards points you can earn.

Free points sharing

As a Hawaiian Airlines Mastercard primary cardmember, you can send and receive Atmos Rewards Points between a network of up to 10 friends and family. Atmos Rewards members can start sharing points by logging into their account at alaskaair.com/atmosrewards.

Redeem points for flights with no blackout dates on Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines.

Redeem for over 1,000 destinations globally through our network of airline partners.

Additional Hawaiian Airlines^® World Elite Mastercard^® benefits can be found at Hawaiian Airlines^® World Elite Mastercard^® – Benefits.

Those interested in applying for Hawaiian Airlines Bank of Hawaii World Elite Mastercard can do so at any Bank of Hawaii branch or online at boh.com/creditcard. Terms and conditions apply.

* No purchase required. See rules. Ends Dec. 31, 2026.

Visit hawaiianairlines.com

About Alaska Air Group

A new home for training excellence: Alaska Airlines unveils state-of-the-art Global Training Center

January 30, 2026
Company
Alaska Airlines
23 min read

Summary



New 660,000-square-foot facility brings training for multiple workgroups under one roof



$200 million investment strengthens the airline’s transformation into country’s fourth global airline

Thousands of Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines employees will now undergo training in a new 660,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility, which officially opened its doors today. The facility will be a hub for flight attendants, pilots, customer service agents and more, and will centralize operations into one space.

The Global Training Center is spectacular and worthy of our amazing frontline employees. This is the first time in our nearly 95-year history that employees across frontline workgroups will train under the same roof. I’m looking forward to this space being used by thousands of employees to build on our culture of safety, performance and care.”

Jason Berry

Chief operating officer, Alaska Airlines

The investment in training capacity and quality will continue to fuel the Alaska Accelerate strategic plan — the vision for the combination between Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines. Frontline employees are at the core of Alaska’s transformation as the network expands globally and the premium guest experience is scaled. This facility is an investment back into the thousands of employees who care for Alaska and Hawaiian guests every day.

Expanded technology and capacity

In addition to the already rigorous training regimen Alaska employees undergo, the Global Training Center includes new technologies available to our employees:

Five total mock bays used by flight attendants to train for emergency aircraft scenarios
A fully functional aircraft galley to train flight attendants on service procedures
A mock lobby and gate area for customer service agents, as well as four aircraft door trainers to practice normal, abnormal and emergency procedures
Virtual reality rooms and equipment, a new 787 full-motion flight simulator and nine 737 full-motion simulators for pilot training

Design and amenities

The facility’s design takes inspiration from the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty with wood elements and a paint scheme representing mountains, oceans and forest canopy. The remodel reused a significant number of existing materials, limiting landfill waste.

Offering an environment where employees can learn from one another, socialize and care for their wellbeing, the Global Training Center offers a number of amenities including a cafeteria, café and bar designed to be like Alaska’s famous Lounges. The facility also offers an auditorium for class graduations and events, a fitness center, bike storage and repair room and a one-mile walking trail.

Located in Renton, Wash., roughly five miles from Alaska’s headquarters, the building was formerly owned by Boeing and was purposefully built to house an aviation training facility. The facility was purchased from Unico Properties in 2024. The total investment in the Global Training Center is more than $200 million. Training at the new center will be augmented by existing pilot and flight attendant training facilities in Honolulu.

Global Training Center by the numbers

Eight acres of land
664,629 square feet across three floors
10 full‑motion simulators
Five inflight mock bays
89 classrooms
Three virtual‑reality training rooms
Nine break rooms
34 conference rooms
550 employees from 14 work groups working in the building
Plus thousands of employees cycling through for regular training

Go to the Global Training Center press kit

About Alaska Air Group

Atmos™ Rewards earns The Points Guy’s top honors for innovation and credit card excellence

January 29, 2026
Loyalty
Alaska Airlines
21 min read

Atmos™ Rewards has soared to the top in two major categories in the 2026 Points Guy Awards. The combined loyalty program of Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines has been recognized as Best Innovation in Airline Loyalty while the Atmos™ Rewards Summit Visa Infinite® card, issued in partnership with Bank of America, was crowned Best New Personal Credit Card.

Now in its eighth year, the 2026 Points Guy Awards honor the best in travel, credit cards and loyalty, from top-tier reward credit cards and exclusive lounges to premier loyalty programs, airlines, hotels and cruise lines. Learn more about the 2026 The Points Guy awards at www.thepointsguy.com/awards.

The outsized value and industry-leading benefits of Atmos Rewards have set a new bar for premium travel. Combining Alaska and Hawaiian gave us a rare opportunity to reimagine what’s possible in airline loyalty. These awards from The Points Guy validate that approach — a program delivering unprecedented flexibility, value and benefits that align with how people actually travel today.”

Susan Zhang

Managing director of loyalty and cobrand, Alaska Airlines

Atmos Rewards has continuously earned top ranks since its debut in August 2025 and has been celebrated for offering new and exciting ways to earn and redeem valuable points with more choice, rewards and global access than ever before. Earlier this year, the program was named NerdWallet’s 2026 Best Airline Rewards Program and Best Airline Rewards Program in U.S. News and World Report’s 2025-2026 Best Travel Rewards.

A powerful companion for the Atmos Rewards member, the Atmos™ Rewards Summit Visa Infinite® card has stood as the most rewarding card in our lineup. The popular card delivers an exceptional suite of premium benefits, including the new Global Companion Award, triple points on eligible dining and foreign purchases, access to Alaska Lounges and a range of additional elite perks.

We’re so pleased that the Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite credit card — our co-branded product with Alaska Airlines — has been honored as The Points Guy’s Best New Personal Credit Card. Our collaboration with our Alaska partners centered on giving travelers elevated, premium benefits while helping them maximize the value of every trip.”

Elpida Perna

Alaska Airlines cobrand executive, Bank of America

The Summit card, in addition to the expanded portfolio of Atmos Rewards credit cards, including the Atmos™ Rewards Ascent Visa Signature^® card, was designed to deliver convenience, value and access to elevated travel experiences.

Learn about Atmos Rewards status and benefits

Explore the benefits of the Atmos™ Rewards Summit Visa Infinite® card

Young man taking a selfie in London with big ben in the background

Earlier this year, Alaska and Hawaiian introduced expanded status earning and exclusive perks for Atmos Rewards members, rewarding travelers not just for flying but for everyday living, whether booking a hotel, renting a car, dining out or shopping for clothes and groceries. Throughout 2026, members can also look forward to additional benefits and phased rollouts, including more flexibility in how they earn points and qualify for status, along with the introduction of Atmos Communities — dedicated spaces where members can connect and access offers and perks tailored to what matters most to them.

Learn about the various Atmos™ Rewards Visa® card products

The Atmos Rewards credit card program is issued and administered by Bank of America, N.A. Visa, Visa Signature and Visa Infinite are registered trademarks of Visa International Service Association and are used by the issuer pursuant to license from Visa U.S.A. Inc.

Editor’s note: To inspire our readers’ language-learning journey, this story is offered in both English and ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi. We encourage reading both paragraph versions to deepen understanding of Hawaiʻi’s native language.

Eia aʻe kekahi mau ʻano e hoʻohanohano ai nā ʻōhua a me nā ʻohana i ka ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi I loko o ka Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi a ma hope aku kekahi. Eia ʻekolu mau mea:

Guests and their families can join the Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi celebrations this month and beyond. Here are three simple ways to get involved:

Related news & stories

Summary

Featured destinations

Copenhagen, Denmark

Now starting at 20,000 points

Helsinki, Finland

Now starting at 17,500 points

Hokkaido, Japan

Now starting at 20,000 points

Munich, Germany

Now starting at 30,000 points

Prague, Czech Republic

Now starting at 30,000 points

Vienna, Austria

Now starting at 20,000 points

Redemption details

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Summary

Alaska has long been recognized as a leading employer.

The global airline is poised for another transformative year under Alaska Accelerate, its plan to propel scale, relevance and loyalty by inspiring its employees and connecting guests to the world through remarkable travel experiences rooted in safety, care and performance.

Related news & stories

Summary

Growing our global team

Connecting our guests to the world

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Summary

Alaska Airlines introduces iconic Pacific Northwest favorites and fresh, globally inspired dishes

Hawaiian Airlines elevates inflight dining with Chef Robynne Maii and Chef Wade Ueoka’s new menu

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Summary

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“We Fly for Hawaiʻi”

Do you want to be featured in the next commercial? Instagram users can share their favorite Hawai‘i moments with Hawaiian Airlines for a chance to be featured by using #WeFlyForHawaii.

“Welcome to Alaska Airlines”

Related news & stories

Here’s why a visit to Japan is a must in winter — and how I made the most of my off-season trip with Alaska and Hawaiian.

Winter is Japan’s most peaceful season

From landing in Tokyo to onsen bliss

Finding warmth back in Tokyo

Business Class suites between Tokyo and Seattle

Final thoughts

Related news & stories

Summary

The Hawaiian Airlines® World Elite Mastercard® gives cardmembers more ways to earn Atmos Rewards points, enjoy exclusive travel perks and save on flights — making it one of the most rewarding airline cards. Popular benefits include:

Companion discounts

Two free checked bags

Status points

Earn

Free points sharing

Related news & stories

Summary

Expanded technology and capacity

Design and amenities

Global Training Center by the numbers

Related news & stories

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The Hawaiian Airlines^® World Elite Mastercard^® gives cardmembers more ways to earn Atmos Rewards points, enjoy exclusive travel perks and save on flights — making it one of the most rewarding airline cards. Popular benefits include: