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Alaska Airlines continues to grow in San Diego with a 30% increase in flights and three new nonstop destinations

San Diego

Summary

New nonstops from San Diego to Chicago O’Hare, Denver and Phoenix will launch later this year, all with multiple daily departures

We’re also significantly expanding the number of frequencies on some of our most popular routes, by 50% or more, to meet growing demand for our premium product

Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines now offer 44 nonstop destinations from San Diego, the most of any airline, with more than 90 peak-day departures

Alaska Airlines is adding new nonstop routes in San Diego, along with offering additional flights on existing routes and improved flight connectivity – all to give our guests more convenient travel options as San Diego’s leading airline. We’ll launch three new nonstop routes with year-round service between San Diego and Phoenix beginning on Aug. 20, followed by Chicago O’Hare and Denver on Oct. 4. Each route will be served by three daily flights.

Starting Oct. 26, we’ll also add flights to select routes that our guests fly the most from San Diego with an increase in frequencies of 50% or more. That means six daily nonstops to Las Vegas, Sacramento and San Jose, Calif., and three daily flights to Salt Lake City. Tickets for the new routes can be purchased now at alaskaair.com, with the flights for the expanded schedule available for purchase beginning this weekend.

SAN-New-Routes-Announcement_Route

Alaska guests in San Diego also benefit from Mileage Plan – our award-winning, industry-leading loyalty program – with the ability to earn and redeem miles on more than 65% of all international flights to Europe and Asia at San Diego International Airport through our oneworld partners.

As the only national airline based on the West Coast, we’ve proudly served guests throughout California for more than 40 years. With the new routes on the combined Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines network, we’ll serve 44 nonstop destinations from San Diego – the most nonstops of any airline serving the airport – along with more than 90 peak-day departures. This includes flights to the East Coast, the Northwest, throughout California, Mexico, Florida and to all four major islands in Hawaiʻi.

“We’re proud to already serve San Diego and the surrounding region with the most nonstop destinations from San Diego. These exciting new additions to our network further expand our ability to take San Diegans directly to where they want to go, better than any other airline, with our premium onboard service and global loyalty program.”

– Ben Minicucci

CEO at Alaska Air Group

New nonstop routes
City Pair Start Date Frequency Aircraft
Phoenix – San Diego Aug. 20 3x Daily 737
Chicago O’Hare – San Diego Oct. 4 3x Daily 737
Denver – San Diego Oct. 4 3x Daily 737 & E175

 

Increased flight frequencies
City Pair Effective New Frequency Current Frequency
Las Vegas – San Diego Oct. 26 6x Daily 4x Daily
Sacramento – San Diego Oct. 26 6x Daily 4x Daily
Salt Lake City – San Diego Oct. 26 3x Daily 1x Daily
San Jose, CA – San Diego Oct. 26 6x Daily 4x Daily
Chicago
Union Station Denver Colorado

“We are very pleased that Alaska Airlines is continuing to grow its service from San Diego. The timing is perfect for adding new routes and increasing frequency to existing flights. We look forward to welcoming both leisure and business visitors to our year-round sunny climate while providing more flights from SAN to destinations across the country.”

– Kimberly Becker

San Diego County Regional Airport Authority President and CEO

Alaska’s combination with Hawaiian is enabling an expanded network with optimal connections on more than 1,650 daily flights this summer. Together with our oneworld member airlines and additional global partners, we offer one-stop service from San Diego to more than 330 destinations.

As part of Alaska’s continuing commitment to Southern California, we began daily nonstop service between San Diego and Washington Reagan National in March 2025. We’re the only airline offering this nonstop flight. San Diego had been the largest U.S. airport without service to Washington Reagan National.

For a limited time, California and Hawaiʻi residents who join our Mileage Plan loyalty program will receive $50 off their next flight when they enroll here. Those living in other states can take advantage of this offer for $25 off their next flight. New members will need to book their travel within 28 days of enrollment and take their flight within 90 days.

SoCal surfer
Autumn Mountain Park - A sunny Autumn day at Bear Creek Lake Park, Denver-Lakewood, Colorado, USA.

Alaska’s elevated travel experience offers a blend of comfort and caring service for a seamless journey, including no change fees, the most legroom in First Class* and Premium Class, and our generous Mileage Plan program with the fastest path to elite status.

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

Alaska is a member of the oneworld global alliance. With oneworld and our additional airline partners, our guests can earn and redeem miles with Mileage Plan to fly on more than 20 oneworld and partner airlines all around the globe. Elite status on Alaska automatically matches tier status in oneworld right away and all the benefits that come with it. 

 

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

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About Alaska Air Group

Alaska Air Group, Inc. is based in Seattle and comprised of subsidiaries Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Holdings, Inc., Horizon Air and McGee Air Services. With our recent acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines, we now serve more than 140 destinations throughout North America, Central America, Asia and across the Pacific. We are committed to safety, remarkable customer care, operational excellence, financial performance and sustainability. Alaska Airlines is a member of the oneworld Alliance. With oneworld and our additional global partners, our guests have more choices than ever to purchase, earn or redeem on alaskaair.com across 30 airlines and more than 1,000 worldwide destinations. Book travel throughout the Pacific on Hawaiian Airlines at hawaiianairlines.com. Learn more about Alaska Airlines at news.alaskaair.com and Hawaiian Airlines at newsroom.hawaiianairlines.com/blog. Alaska Air Group is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) as “ALK.”

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New terminal neighbors: Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines align operations

Summary

Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines are collaborating to co-locate airport spaces at key locations, including LAX, JFK, PHX and SFO, with additional integrations coming soon.

Hawaiian Airlines’ relocation to Alaska Airlines’ terminals at LAX and JFK improves accessibility and strengthens ties with Alaska’s oneworld alliance partners, offering shared premium lounge access and upgraded guest experiences.

Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines are integrating airport spaces across several key airports as part of a network-wide initiative aimed at streamlining operations and delivering a more seamless and efficient travel experience for guests.

“We are committed to enhancing guest convenience to set the stage for future collaborative efforts that will benefit all our guests. These moves represent a significant step in that direction.”

– Celley Buchanan

Vice President of Operations and Customer Service at Alaska Airlines

Hawaiian’s co-location efforts involve moving its gates, ticket counters and other airport resources next to Alaska’s, with some locations featuring fully shared spaces between the two airlines.

Hawaiian Airlines Joins Alaska at LAX and JFK

Today, Hawaiian Airlines check-in operations have moved to Terminal 6 at Los Angeles International Airport, co-locating with Alaska Airlines to offer guests quicker and easier access between gates, counters and baggage claim. 

Hawaiian also launched operations today at Terminal 8 at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport as part of a months-long transition from Terminal 4. This strategic move enhances connectivity with Alaska’s oneworld alliance partners, including American Airlines and British Airways. By October, both Alaska and Hawaiian will be fully consolidated at Terminal 8 as Alaska transitions from its current location at Terminal 7. 

Family with luggage
Woman at airport

“The new long-term lease at Terminal 8 and our resulting move strengthen our commitment to enhancing the guest experience, improving employee spaces and driving better economic outcomes for our JFK operation. Terminal 8 is home to American Airlines — our long-standing oneworld partner — and this move demonstrates our shared commitment to delivering seamless connectivity for our guests. After two years of thoughtful evaluation, we’re excited to be closer to American and other global partners to better serve guests.”

- Shane Jones

Senior Vice President of Fleet, Revenue Products and Real Estate at Alaska Airlines

In addition, thanks to the partnership with American Airlines, First Class guests on both Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines enjoy access to the Admirals Club at JFK’s Terminal 8 — providing a comfortable and premium travel experience. Hawaiian Airlines guests booked in the First Class cabin also have access to American’s Greenwich Flagship Lounge.

“We are thrilled to welcome our West Coast International Alliance and oneworld partner, Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines to Terminal 8. We continue to invest in JFK to enhance the travel experience for our customers and those of our partners like Alaska and Hawaiian, especially as we make progress on the redesign and expansion of the T8 concessions program, bringing new shops and restaurant options for customers to enjoy.”

- Amanda Zhang

Vice President of Corporate Real Estate at American Airlines

Progress so far and what’s next

The co-location initiative began last year with Hawaiian relocating next to Alaska in the newly renovated Harvey Milk Terminal 1 at San Francisco International Airport, followed by Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.

In addition to Los Angeles, JFK, Phoenix and San Francisco, Alaska and Hawaiian plan to co-locate in Sacramento, Salt Lake City and Las Vegas, with completion expected later this year.

The growing network of co-located spaces not only simplifies the guest experience at the airport for guests but also reflects Alaska and Hawaiian’s commitment to providing connectivity, convenience and comfort for all travelers.

AIrplan over LAX
Traveler with luggage
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About Alaska Air Group

Alaska Air Group, Inc. is based in Seattle and comprised of subsidiaries Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Holdings, Inc., Horizon Air and McGee Air Services. With our recent acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines, we now serve more than 140 destinations throughout North America, Central America, Asia and across the Pacific. We are committed to safety, remarkable customer care, operational excellence, financial performance and sustainability. Alaska Airlines is a member of the oneworld Alliance. With oneworld and our additional global partners, our guests have more choices than ever to purchase, earn or redeem on alaskaair.com across 30 airlines and more than 1,000 worldwide destinations. Book travel throughout the Pacific on Hawaiian Airlines at hawaiianairlines.com. Learn more about Alaska Airlines at news.alaskaair.com and Hawaiian Airlines at newsroom.hawaiianairlines.com/blog. Alaska Air Group is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) as “ALK.”

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Alaska Airlines unveils exciting First Class, Main Cabin options and sets stage for next culinary chapter 

Summary

Chef Brandon Jew’s Cantonese-inspired dishes expand to more First Class routes, continuing Alaska’s award-winning culinary partnership.

Alaska debuts a bold new plant-based grain bowl in Main Cabin, crafted with Evergreens™ and available for pre-order on select flights starting April 30.

Alaska Airlines is soaring to new heights this spring with chef-curated meals that bring the flavors of an award-winning restaurant straight to your tray table.

 

Culinary journey continues with award-winning chef

Building on the success of its exclusive First Class menu, Alaska is proud to continue its partnership with acclaimed chef Brandon Jew, owner of San Francisco’s Michelin-starred Mister Jiu’s. Last fall, the airline teamed up with the James Beard Award-winning chef to launch three high-quality meals, setting a new standard for inflight dining.

Now, First Class guests flying between San Francisco and New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport can once again indulge in Chef Jew’s expertly crafted dishes, bringing a modern twist to Cantonese cuisine in the skies. New this year, Alaska is expanding the guest experience by adding Chef Jew’s dishes to First Class menus on flights from San Francisco to Boston, Washington D.C. (Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Washington Dulles International Airport) and Orlando.

“I’m grateful to Alaska Airlines for partnering with me in honoring my roots and continuing to bring Chinese food to guests traveling from coast to coast. As I developed my first menu cycle, I learned to rely on sauces that are delicious on their own and to create dishes that evoke a sense of place – whether that’s reminding guests of home or getting them excited to visit San Francisco’s Chinatown where my restaurant is located.”

– Chef Brandon Jew

Award-winning Chef & Alaska Chef Partner

Photos by Alaska Airlines

Chef Jew’s new spring menu puts a cultural twist on familiar favorites still steeped in classic Chinese Food, featuring dishes like the new Hong Kong French Toast and Tea-Smoked Soy Chicken.

“With this new menu, I’m featuring local ingredients like Wycen Foods’ Lap Cheong, a traditional cured meat made by a specialty San Francisco Chinatown shop; and Stemple Creek, a ranch dedicated to sustainable practices,” said Jew. “These ingredients bring incredible flavor and showcase the Bay Area’s culinary heritage. The partnership with Alaska is an exciting opportunity, and I can’t wait to see how Alaska will continue to elevate their menus with what’s cooking behind the scenes.”

“Chef Jew’s innovative approach and ability to craft dishes that appeal to a wide range of tastes make him the ideal partner – and this is just the beginning.”

– Todd Traynor-Corey

Vice President of Products and Experience, Alaska Airlines

hero-ANC
A new chapter awaits

It all began with Chef Jew. Now Alaska is working on its next culinary chapter that will take its already elevated meals to new heights.

“Later this spring, we’ll be revealing what’s next on the horizon and exclusive to our First Class guests,” hinted Traynor-Corey. “Get ready for more innovation, more flavor and more culinary artistry at 35,000 feet.”

With more menu innovations on the way, Alaska continues to build on the dining excellence that earned it top honors from Business Traveler in 2024.

Plant-based perfection lands this spring

No matter where our guests sit, Alaska delivers a premium dining experience with a variety of chef-curated cuisine. That includes our Main Cabin.

Starting April 30, Alaska Airlines is excited to unveil a 100% plant-based and gluten-free dish in partnership with longtime collaborator Evergreens™, the Seattle-based fast-casual restaurant known for its bold, customizable salads, wraps, and bowls.

The Best Laid Plants grain bowl—created in collaboration with Evergreens’ culinary team—features Chimichurri Tofu, avocado, quinoa, and a side of Mango Habanero Dressing. This chef-crafted option brings Evergreens’ signature flavors to the skies, offering guests a craveable and satisfying plant-based meal. The Best Laid Plants grain bowl will be available to Main Cabin guests for pre-order on most flights over 1,100* miles.

 

“This fresh, flavorful dish is not only a healthy choice — it’s good for the planet. We created the Best Laid Plants grain bowl to prove plant-based food doesn’t have to be bland. After extensive taste testing with employees and focus groups — even the most dedicated carnivores agree: it’s a winner.”

– David Rodriguez

Food and Beverage Planning and Programs Manager, Alaska Airlines

 

 For the full spring menu available in First Class, Premium Class and Main Cabin, click here. Fueled by Alaska’s industry leading pre-order program, the airline continues to offer more inflight dining choices than any other U.S. carrier. Guests can now choose from up to five chef-curated dishes, including at least one hot meal option on flights over 1,100* miles. In addition to Alaska’s freshly prepared selections—like the guest-favorite Signature Fruit & Cheese Platter—fresh meals are available exclusively through pre-order purchase.

 

“We’re thrilled to partner with Alaska Airlines to bring one of our most craveable, plant-based bowls to the skies,” said David Kairis, head chef at Evergreens™. “This is about proving that healthy food can be bold, satisfying and something travelers will actually look forward to.”

Full First Class Chef Brandon Jew Curated Spring Menu

Route: SFO to BOS, DCA, EWR, JFK, IAD, MCO and EWR/JFK to SFO

Breakfast: Hong Kong French Toast

Description: Toasted brioche bread soaked in a spiced cream mixture, topped with a rose-water & strawberry compote. Served with a coconut-cashew butter sauce and traditional Wycen Chinese Lap Cheong sausage.

Route: SFO to JFK/EWR

Lunch/Dinner: Stemple Creek Ranch Braised Short Ribs

Description: Tender short rib braised in a traditional shio koji marinade, served with broccolini and Chow-Fun rice noodles with roasted butternut squash. 

Route: JFK/EWR to SFO and SFO to BOS, DCA, IAD, MCO

Lunch/Dinner: Tea-smoked Soy Chicken

Description: Soy-marinated crispy chicken thigh smoked with traditional tea leaves, served alongside lightly pickled lotus root and a sticky lotus leaf rice with traditional Wycen Chinese Lap Cheong sausage.

For our media kit, click here.

*Certain meal options may not be available on some flights, including redeye flights or where catering is not available

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Alaska Mileage Plan members could score ultimate festival upgrade at Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival and Stagecoach Festival 

Summary

We’re bringing an elevated, immersive experience to this year’s Coachella and Stagecoach musical festivals as the official airline partner, offering exclusive perks for Mileage Plan members

Mileage Plan members get access to daily giveaways, VIP upgrades and a one-of-a-kind cloudscape lounge designed to deliver First Class vibes on the ground

Alaska Airlines is turning up the volume this festival season as the official airline of Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival and Stagecoach Festival – two of the year’s most anticipated music events. We’re bringing our signature care and adventure-loving spirit to the desert with a First Class festival experience designed especially for our most loyal guests.

Alaska Mileage Plan festivalgoers can step inside Alaska’s technicolor cloudscape and dive into a world that’s part cloud nine, part neon dream. Stroll through a mirrored tunnel glowing with LED lights, then chill in the clouds like you’re 35,000 feet up (minus the seatbelt sign) and snap the ultimate cloud-selfie. Every afternoon and into the evening, Mileage Plan members are invited to join us for Cloud Social — Alaska’s take on happy hour. Sip on an ice-cold Passion Orange Guava (POG) juice (the same one we serve onboard Hawaiian Airlines flights) or a bold cold brew. Need a snack? We’ve got pretzels and specialty cookies made in Hawai’i ready for takeoff.

“At Alaska, it’s not just about the destination – it’s about creating memorable and meaningful moments throughout the journey. As the official airline of Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival and Stagecoach Festival, we’re excited to be a part of two of the most exciting music and art festivals of the year while rewarding our loyal Mileage Plan members with experiences that match the energy and excitement of these incredible events.”

– Eric Edge

Vice President of Brand and Marketing, Alaska Airlines

Before heading back to the music, guests can stop by our prize-packed vending machine. Thousands of goodies are waiting – and rumor has it, a few lucky guests may be jetting off on their next big adventure. One lucky guest each day could unlock the ultimate festival upgrade, featuring VIP treatment and access to the most exclusive viewing area at the festival that’s normally reserved for the performing main stage artist and their friends. These special giveaways are exclusive to Alaska Mileage Plan members and credit card holders.

 

Not an Alaska Mileage Plan member yet? It’s free and easy to join at alaskaair.com or onsite at the Alaska cloudscape experience. From chart-toppers to sky-high surprises, Alaska is ready to make this festival season one to remember.

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan benefits:

Earn miles as you travel with our oneworld® and global partners, connecting you to over 1,000+ destinations worldwide
You’ll earn one mile for each mile flown to any of 120+ destinations on Alaska flights (excluding Saver fares booked in X class)
Benefits start at just 20,000 miles and include complimentary upgrades upon availability, free checked bags, priority check-in and boarding

Find great deals

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Fly on Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines to Sydney or Auckland this year and we’ll award you with MVP elite status through 2026

Summary

When you complete a roundtrip flight with Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines between the continental U.S. (excluding Hawai’i) and Sydney, Australia, or Auckland, New Zealand, by Dec. 31, 2025, you’ll receive Mileage Plan MVP elite status until the end of 2026.

This offer is valid for travel throughout 2025, with status to be awarded soon after a Mileage Plan member completes their flight.

 MVP status offers flyers bonus miles on all flights, including those with our partners, as well as priority check-in and boarding, free checked bags, complimentary preferred seating, upgrades when available and more.

A vacation to Australia or New Zealand on its own is a tremendous Down Under adventure. How about we put a cherry on top?

When you complete a roundtrip flight with Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines between the continental U.S. (excluding Hawai’i) and Sydney, Australia, or Auckland, New Zealand, by Dec. 31, 2025, you’ll receive Mileage Plan MVP elite status until the end of 2026. Purchase your tickets now at alaskaair.com and hawaiianairlines.com. Make sure to use your Mileage Plan number when booking. There are also a few additional details to be aware of.

For our guests and Mileage Plan members in the Pacific Northwest, Alaska and Hawaiian offer the most direct routes from Seattle and Portland to Sydney and Auckland with a connection in Honolulu. Our route between Seattle and Sydney adds only four nautical miles to the journey – flying the same path as a nonstop flight.

“With the combined network of Alaska and Hawaiian, it’s more convenient than ever for our guests to book a flight to Australia and New Zealand for the trip of a lifetime – and reward themselves with the benefits of MVP elite status for future flying benefits.”

– Alex Judson

Managing Director of Partnerships and International at Alaska Airlines

This offer is valid for travel throughout 2025, with status to be awarded soon after a Mileage Plan member completes their flight. MVP status offers flyers bonus miles on all flights, including those with our partners, as well as priority check-in and boarding, free checked bags, complimentary preferred seating, upgrades when available and more.

And don’t forget: Elite status with Alaska automatically gives you corresponding elite status within the oneworld Alliance, along with a variety of benefits.

Flights from Seattle, Portland, San Diego and other cities throughout the continental U.S. to Honolulu can be on Alaska or Hawaiian with continuing service to Sydney and Auckland from Honolulu on Hawaiian’s long-haul, widebody aircraft.

Hawaiian flies to Sydney five times a week year-round and offers three flights a week to Auckland through April 30, with seasonal service to Auckland resuming Nov. 16.

 

Hawaiian offers complimentary high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi on board A330 flights to Sydney and Auckland as well as complimentary island-inspired meal service in all cabins. The A330 features 18 Business Class lie-flat leather seats, 68 popular Extra Comfort seats and 192 main cabin seats.

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Alaska Air Group announces webcast of first-quarter 2025 financial results

Summary

Join us on April 24, 2025 at 8:30 a.m. PT/11:30 a.m. ET for Alaska Air Group’s Q1 2025 analyst conference call.

Alaska Air Group Inc., the parent company of Alaska Airlines Inc., Hawaiian Airlines, Inc. and Horizon Air Industries Inc., will hold its quarterly conference call to discuss 2025 first quarter financial results at 11:30 a.m. EDT/ 8:30 a.m. PDT, Thursday, April 24, 2025. A webcast of the call will be available to the public at www.alaskaair.com/investors. An archive of the call will be posted on the website later that morning.

The company will file its first-quarter results and outlook after market close on Wednesday, April 23, 2025.

Tune in to Conference Call
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About Alaska Air Group

Alaska Air Group, Inc. is based in Seattle and comprised of subsidiaries Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Holdings, Inc., Horizon Air and McGee Air Services. With our recent acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines, we now serve more than 140 destinations throughout North America, Central America, Asia and across the Pacific. We are committed to safety, remarkable customer care, operational excellence, financial performance and sustainability. Alaska Airlines is a member of the oneworld Alliance. With oneworld and our additional global partners, our guests have more choices than ever to purchase, earn or redeem on alaskaair.com across 30 airlines and more than 1,000 worldwide destinations. Book travel throughout the Pacific on Hawaiian Airlines at hawaiianairlines.com. Learn more about Alaska Airlines at news.alaskaair.com and Hawaiian Airlines at newsroom.hawaiianairlines.com/blog. Alaska Air Group is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) as “ALK.”

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Alaska Airlines announces investment in Loft Dynamics and partnership to develop and deploy first Boeing 737 VR simulators

Summary

In a first for global airlines, Alaska will lend expertise from its industry-leading training program to inform development of next generation simulators. The investment in Loft Dynamics was made through Alaska Star Ventures, Alaska’s corporate venture capital arm. 

The potential VR simulators could revolutionize pilot training with their immersive, high-fidelity experience and compact size, allowing for more frequent and efficient skill refinement. 

Ushering in the next era of pilot training, Alaska Airlines has announced an investment in Loft Dynamics — an industry leader in virtual flight training and the developer of the only FAA- and EASA-qualified virtual reality (VR) helicopter flight simulator. The investment made through Alaska Star Ventures, Alaska’s corporate venture capital arm, will support development of the first hyper-realistic, full-motion Boeing 737 VR simulator, using extended reality (XR) technology and techniques, with the goal of enhancing Alaska’s pilot training program and informing future training solutions across the industry.

Alaska has a long history of pioneering aviation advancements, from launching the first online ticket sales to becoming the first airline to design and implement satellite-based approaches. Now, by investing in the development of full-motion VR simulators, Alaska is once again moving the industry forward. With aviation safety as a top priority and a global pilot shortage still looming, this partnership paves the way for airlines worldwide to train the next generation of exceptional pilots more efficiently and effectively than ever before.

 

– Fabi Riesen

Founder and CEO , Loft Dynamics

Traditional full-motion simulators have long been the gold standard for airline training, providing an essential and proven method for pilot instruction. However, their substantial footprint, high cost, and operational constraints limit scalability and accessibility. As airlines, operators, and regulators seek more flexible solutions, VR is emerging as a powerful and influential solution.

Pilot training has significantly evolved over the past 30 years, from training solely in an aircraft to using full-flight simulators. With the potential of Loft’s hyper-realistic VR simulator, we could be transforming commercial pilot training as we know it today. These VR simulators could provide a fully immersive, high-fidelity, data-driven experience that replicates real-world flight scenarios — all in a device compact enough to fit in a standard office. This accessibility could allow pilots to train more frequently and refine their skills with greater efficiency. We are committed to offering the most advanced training solutions available, including VR, and look forward to being Loft’s first fixed-wing customer.

 

– Capt. Jeff Severns

Managing Director of Flight Operations Training , Alaska Airlines

Alaska is supporting Loft in the development of a Boeing 737 full-motion VR flight simulator with the financial investment and the expertise of its flight operations training department. As part of this partnership — and once the VR simulators are developed, built and approved — Alaska and Loft aim to install them at individual Alaska bases for pilot training. These state-of-the-art simulators will feature:

Six-degrees-of-freedom full-motion platform with improved pilot motion cueing that replicates real-world physics, force feedback from flight controls and all haptic sensations of the aircraft.

A 360-degree panoramic 3D view, providing correct visual cues inside and outside the aircraft.

Advanced full-body pose tracking, allowing pilots to see their hand and body movements in real-time within the VR environment.

Customizable training scenarios and environments, enabling pilots to practice any situation, condition, and maneuver safely and realistically.

Compact size, requiring 1/12th the space of legacy full-flight simulators, allowing for increased accessibility and flexibility.

Virtual demonstration mode, which lets instructors record immersive lessons — including visuals, audio and control inputs — for pilots to replay and learn from during future simulator sessions.

LoftSPATIAL app for Apple Vision Pro, which, when connected to the simulator, enables pilots to use spatial computing to train anytime, anywhere.

Our investment in Loft Dynamics underscores our conviction in this technology, which enables hyper-realistic training of complex scenarios more effectively and more relevantly. Over time, this technology would enable us to bring critical training closer to the pilot base, reducing unnecessary travel and time while delivering industry-leading pilot training. It represents a paradigm shift and has the potential to dramatically enhance the quality of commercial pilot training.

 

– Pasha Saleh

Director of Corporate Development, Alaska Airlines

The eventual Boeing 737 VR simulator will be submitted to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for approval — likely in the next few years. In the interim, Alaska and Loft plan to explore training enhancement opportunities for pilots that would function as a supplement to existing FAA-required training.

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About Alaska Air Group

Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and Horizon Air are subsidiaries of Alaska Air Group, with McGee Air Services a subsidiary of Alaska Airlines. 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. Alaska is a member of the oneworld Alliance with Hawaiian scheduled to join in 2026. With oneworld and our additional global partners, guests can earn and redeem miles for travel to over 1,000 worldwide destinations. Guests can book travel at alaskaair.com and hawaiianairlines.com. Learn more about what’s happening at Alaska and Hawaiian. Alaska Air Group is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) as “ALK.”

About Loft Dynamics

Loft Dynamics AG is the global leader in qualified virtual reality flight simulation training devices (FSTD). It is the only VR FSTD qualified by the FAA and EASA. Equipped with a 3D high-resolution panoramic view, dynamic six-degrees-of-freedom motion platform, and full-scale replica cockpit with a unique pose tracking system, our revolutionary VR simulators provide a more immersive, realistic, customizable, and safe training experience. By offering a training solution 10 times smaller and significantly more cost-effective than legacy simulators, we enhance training accessibility and scalability, empowering highly skilled pilots to meet global demand. We serve leading manufacturers, airlines, operators, schools, and organizations worldwide. Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, and Zurich, Switzerland, our team comprises passionate engineers, developers, and aviation experts. Learn more at LoftDynamics.com.

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Alaska Airlines Elevates Loyalty Program with Personalized Rewards and Enhanced Benefits

Summary

Starting from 10,000 elite-qualifying miles, Mileage Plan members can reach milestones and select perks tailored to their preferences, including bonus miles, free WiFi, complimentary meal onboard, one-time lounge passes, and more.

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® and Alaska Airlines Visa® Business cardholders now receive one free checked bag for themselves and up to six guests on the same reservation on Hawaiian Airlines-operated flights when using their card to book. Additionally, Hawaiian Airlines® World Elite Mastercard® primary cardmembers will receive two free checked bags when using their card to book Alaska Airlines-operated flights.²

Starting in May, MVP Gold 75K and MVP Gold 100K members will be able to select a complimentary Extra Comfort seat at the time of booking when purchasing a Main Cabin fare on Hawaiian Airlines.

Beginning mid-summer, Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® and Alaska Airlines Visa® Business cardholders will be able to use their companion fare on Hawaiian Airlines flights within North America.

The most generous loyalty program is now awarding our loyal members with more personalized rewards, and a highly-anticipated bag benefit is now live. As announced back in October, Alaska Airlines’ award-winning Mileage Plan has launched new milestones starting at just 10,000 elite-qualifying miles, providing members with a variety of perks throughout their journey.

More benefits, less distance between them:
Introducing milestones and perks.

In addition to achieving status milestones, our members now have the opportunity to choose perks that cater to their specific preferences. Whether they value bonus miles, a complimentary pre-order item like the Signature fruit & cheese platter, WiFi, lounge access, or other benefits, they have the flexibility to make their selection at every stage of their journey. Further information on these personalized benefits can be found here. Additionally, the following benefits are available to all elite members:

New Bag Benefit for Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® and Alaska Airlines Visa® Business cardholders & Hawaiian Airlines® World Elite Mastercard® cardmembers

Beginning today, Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® and Alaska Airlines Visa® Business cardholders will receive one free checked bag for themselves and up to six guests on the same reservation when using their card to book Hawaiian Airlines-operated flights.¹ Visit Alaska’s Free Bag FAQ to learn more about the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® and Alaska Airlines Visa® Business cardholder benefits.

Additionally, Hawaiian Airlines® World Elite Mastercard® primary cardmembers will receive two free checked bags when using their card to book Alaska Airlines-operated flights.²

Coming soon: Extra Comfort benefits for MVP Gold 75K and MVP Gold 100K

Starting in May, MVP Gold 75K and MVP Gold 100K members will be able to select a complimentary Extra Comfort seat at the time of booking when purchasing a Main Cabin fare on Hawaiian Airlines. This new perk is designed to enhance the travel experience for those elite members, providing additional legroom, priority boarding, and other amenities that make their journey more comfortable.

Coming soon: Use your Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® and Alaska Airlines Visa® Business companion fare on Hawaiian Airlines.

Starting this summer, guests will have the option to use their Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® and Alaska Airlines Visa® Business companion fare on any Alaska Airlines or Hawaiian Airlines flight within North America when booking via alaskaair.com. Further details will be provided in the coming months regarding this expanded benefit.

Building a stronger & more rewarding loyalty program

Over the past year, we have been on a journey to build a stronger and more rewarding Mileage Plan program. These latest perks and enhancements come on the heels of additional benefits that were announced in January as part of our continued integration with Hawaiian Airlines. During that time, we announced status match between Mileage Plan and Hawaiian’s HawaiianMiles, the ability to redeem Mileage Plan miles on Hawaiian Airlines-operated flights, select benefits for Mileage Plan elites when flying on Hawaiian Airlines, and the ability to earn miles across both programs. Over the coming weeks and months, we will continue to roll-out additional program benefits and enhancements – and ultimately unveil our single loyalty program with Hawaiian Airlines over the summer.

Stay tuned for more!

¹This credit card program is issued and administered by Bank of America, N.A. Visa and Visa Signature are registered trademarks of Visa International Service Association and are used by the issuer pursuant to license from Visa U.S.A. Inc.

²The Hawaiian Airlines World Elite Mastercard primary cardmember is eligible to receive 2 free checked bags on certain Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines operated flights (free checked bag benefit). The primary cardmember must book the Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines operated flights with their Hawaiian Airlines® World Elite® Mastercard to receive the checked bag benefit. Authorized Users of the primary cardmember do not qualify for the free checked bag benefit. On Hawaiian Airlines, the free checked bag benefit is only available for travel between North America and Hawaii and between Neighbor Islands (interisland). International flights are excluded. On Alaska Airlines, the free checked bag benefit cannot be combined with other free baggage allowances.

The Hawaiian Airlines World Elite Mastercard is issued by Barclays Bank Delaware pursuant to a license by Mastercard International Incorporated. Mastercard, World Mastercard, World Elite Mastercard, and the circles design are registered trademarks of Mastercard International Incorporated.

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Alaska Airlines welcomes Fiji Airways as the newest full member of the oneworld alliance

Summary

Alaska Airlines congratulates Fiji Airways, the flag carrier of Fiji and the South Pacific, on becoming the 14th full member airline of the oneworld alliance.

With its hub at Nadi International Airport, Fiji Airways serves 25 destinations in 14 countries and territories worldwide, including oneworld hubs in Sydney, Hong Kong, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Tokyo. 

Alaska Airlines congratulates Fiji Airways, the flag carrier of Fiji and the South Pacific, on becoming the 14th full member airline of the oneworld alliance as of March 31, 2025. That’s a special date for us because it also marks when Alaska officially joined oneworld four years ago in 2021.

With its hub at Nadi International Airport, Fiji Airways serves 25 destinations in 14 countries and territories worldwide, including oneworld hubs in Sydney, Hong Kong, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Tokyo.

Being part of oneworld allows our guests to enjoy a seamless travel experience across over 900 destinations globally, with smooth transfers between carriers, top-notch support from all member airlines, access to nearly 700 airport lounges worldwide, and the ability to earn and redeem miles on all partners.

Beginning this spring, our partnership with Fiji Airways will offer even more redemption opportunities for Mileage Plan members that can be booked on alaskaair.com. Learn more about how to redeem miles.

 

If you’ve earned status with Alaska Airlines – and now Hawaiian Airlines – all that hard work goes even further with benefits in oneworld to make your journey even more enjoyable.

Alaska’s elite Mileage Plan members automatically receive matching oneworld tier status:

— MVP Gold 100K & MVP Gold 75K = oneworld Emerald

— MVP Gold = oneworld Sapphire

— MVP = oneworld Ruby

Elites receive a variety of privileges, including priority check-in, access to more than 600 international first and business class lounges (depending on their status tier), preferred boarding, fast track through security, baggage benefits and more.

We expect Hawaiian to join oneworld in 2026. In the meantime, HawaiianMiles members can enjoy elite benefits on oneworld member airlines by status matching to Alaska Mileage Plan and using their Mileage Plan number when traveling on oneworld member airlines such as American Airlines, Japan Airlines, Qantas, and now, Fiji Airways. HawaiianMiles and Mileage Plan accounts can be linked here.

There are currently 14 members of oneworld: Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Fiji Airways, Finnair, Iberia, Japan Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Qantas, Qatar Airways, Royal Air Maroc, Royal Jordanian and SriLankan Airlines. Oman Air will become the 15th member in 2025.

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Alaska Airlines announces new nonstop flights between Seattle and Seoul Incheon beginning Sept. 12 on Hawaiian Airlines

Summary

Alaska Airlines begins new nonstop service between Seattle and Seoul Incheon on Hawaiian Airlines starting Sept. 12, 2025.

We’re transforming Alaska’s hometown hub in Seattle into the West Coast’s new premier global gateway.

Alaska Airlines has set the date for new nonstop service between Seattle and Seoul Incheon on Hawaiian Airlines. Starting Sept. 12, 2025, guests can fly in comfort on our long-haul, widebody Airbus A330-200 aircraft to South Korea’s capital city. We initially announced the new international route this past December. Tickets can now be purchased at alaskaair.com and hawaiianairlines.com.

With the combination of Alaska and Hawaiian, Seattle is transforming into the West Coast’s new premier global gateway. By 2030, we plan to serve at least 12 nonstop international destinations with widebody aircraft from Seattle, including Seoul Incheon and Tokyo Narita. Daily flights between Seattle and Tokyo Narita begin on May 12.

Alaska’s Seattle hub is the largest airline hub on the West Coast, serving 104 nonstop destinations across North America for convenient travel options and connections.

With our robust network, we can connect our guests through our global gateway in Seattle for convenient nonstop service to Seoul and Tokyo, with additional connections to other Asian destinations with our global partners. As we grow our global network from Seattle in the coming years, we’ll announce new international routes to dynamic destinations that we know our guests are going to love to visit.”

– Andrew Harrison

Chief Commercial Officer at Alaska Airlines

The new service between Seattle and Seoul Incheon will take flight just before the start of Chuseok, also known as Korean Thanksgiving Day – one of the nation’s most important and festive holidays. It takes place in early October this year, allowing travelers to visit with family and friends in South Korea with Hawaiian’s award-winning service and hospitality.

We look forward to adding our flagship Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft to the Seattle-Seoul Incheon route soon.

 

All times local; September schedule shown

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Alaska Airlines inaugurates nonstop service between San Diego and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport

Summary

This week, Alaska Airlines began service between Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and San Diego International Airport.

This exciting new route strengthens our network while connecting people with the nation’s capital, including the largest military community in the United States.

Prior to the launch of our route, SAN was the largest U.S. airport without service to DCA.

This week, we launched our long-awaited route from San Diego International Airport (SAN) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) in Washington, D.C.! These flights will provide more choice to guests and communities across our network, whether they are members of the United States military, tourists chasing cherry blossoms, or residents of Hawaii connecting to the East Coast.

A key west coast hub

As the carrier with the most nonstop destinations from San Diego, Alaska offers 40 nonstop destinations and more than 70 peak-day departures. Alaska’s combination with Hawaiian Airlines is enabling an expanded network with optimal connections on 1,400 daily flights. Together with our Global Partners, we offer one-stop service from San Diego International Airport (SAN) to more than 330 destinations.

Whether you’re flying nonstop or catching a connecting flight at SAN, www.alaskaair.com has options for what works best for you: you can book flights on 22 partner airlines or redeem Mileage Plan miles, all on our site.

“This coveted route strengthens the direct connection to the nation’s capital and helps support our regional economy with an estimated $11 million in annual visitor impact.”

– Todd Gloria

San Diego Mayor

Thank you to our local, state, and federal partners, and to Mayor Gloria for their support.

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Alaska Airlines names new Vice President of Brand & Marketing

Summary

Industry veteran Eric Edge to lead brand strategy and marketing for combined airline

Alaska Airlines today announced the appointment of Eric Edge as Vice President of Brand & Marketing for both the Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines brands. In this role, Edge will oversee the marketing strategy that will deliver on the combined airline’s long-term vision of connecting guests to the world with a remarkable travel experience rooted in safety, care and performance.

This appointment comes as Alaska Airlines continues to advance its integration with Hawaiian Airlines, creating a first of its kind dual-brand model, with one combined operation, and expanding its position as Hawai‘i’s trusted airline​. This move underscores Alaska Airlines’ commitment to preserving the unique identities of both airlines while maximizing their combined strengths to deliver best-in-class experiences to guests.

Edge will be responsible for driving awareness and adoption of the combined airline’s enhanced single loyalty program, premium product offerings and expansive global network. Key initiatives in 2025 include launching a new global gateway from Seattle with nonstop routes to Tokyo Narita (NRT) and Seoul Incheon (ICN), introducing a single loyalty program and premium credit card built for the global traveler, and managing an innovative dual brand approach for the combined airline.

“We’re focused on strengthening the commercial levers that drive the greatest guest satisfaction, and ultimately loyalty. Eric’s proven leadership and strategic approach to building brands make him the ideal choice to guide our marketing efforts as we continue to elevate the travel experience for our guests and drive healthy revenue growth.”

– Andrew Harrison

Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, Alaska Airlines

With more than 20 years of experience in marketing, brand strategy and digital innovation, Edge brings unique expertise from leadership roles at Postmates/Uber, Pinterest, and Facebook/Instagram. Since joining Alaska Airlines in 2022 as managing director of marketing and advertising, he has led the transformation of Alaska’s premium business strategy, successfully increasing brand perception and driving double-digit revenue growth in key markets​. Edge studied political science at San Diego State University and began his career in aviation as a flight attendant.

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