Alaska Airlines and Portland Trail Blazers join forces to empower youth through aviation & education

February 27, 2024
Community
Alaska Airlines
3 min read

What happens when we combine our commitment to providing education opportunities for BIPOC youth with our love of the Portland Trail Blazers? A powerful weekend celebrating Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), that is!

This year, we teamed up with the Trail Blazers to host the annual HBCU to the Pros game on Feb. 25 – and we helped make it bigger and more meaningful than ever before. As the official airline of the Trail Blazers, we’re grateful for partners who share our values of education and equity.

HBCU event at SEI on February 24. 2024. Photos courtesy of the Trail Blazers

Before we got to the excitement of the game, we participated in Junction Ave – a Black business event hosted by Self Enhancement, Inc. (SEI). Some of our Portland-based pilots and recruiters met with youth and encouraged them to consider careers in aviation and gave the kids a spin in a flight simulator. Additionally, high schoolers heard from HBCU representatives and HBCU alumni to begin to formulate their future college plans.

HBCU band airport arrival on February 23, 2024. Photos by Suhela Hassan, Rip City Remix

One of the biggest moments of the weekend came when the famous Prairie View A&M Marching Storm Band performed at halftime to bring a little HBCU energy to the Rose City. We were proud to fly the 40-person band from Texas to Portland on Alaska’s Our Commitment Plane.

Alaska Airlines has a long history of connecting Black youth in the Pacific Northwest to educational opportunities at HBCUs and beyond,” said James Thomas, Alaska Airlines’ Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. “We’re proud to fly in the Prairie View A&M band so Portland can experience the unique energy of HBCUs, and the kids in our community can connect with college students who will inspire their educational goals.”

Trail Blazers face the Charlotte Hornets on February 25, 2024. Photos by Stephanie Castillo, the Trail Blazers

Our Commitment

Nearly 3 years ago, we launched the Our Commitment aircraft in partnership with UNCF to promote education and equity. In the years since, we have flown hundreds of students on the special aircraft to tour colleges and for other educational trips. Last year, in partnership with UNCF, we sent more than 40 high school juniors to tour HBCUs in Atlanta. This spring, we’re doing it again, with UNCF, in addition to SEI.

Alaska ❤️ Portland

We just can’t get enough of Portland! This month, we announced an increase of 20 daily departures from PDX – connecting the city more frequently with popular destinations like Las Vegas, Sacramento and Phoenix. We also just announced a new flight between Portland and Atlanta, bringing our nonstop destinations from PDX to 54.

Alaska Airlines aspiring pilot embraces journey of reclaiming her Vietnamese name & heritage

February 26, 2024
Community
Candace Mỹ Nhung Lê
5 min read

Photos & Video by Ingrid Barrentine

My parents didn’t name me Candace. My real Vietnamese name is Nhung (pronounced ñūng). It means velvet and symbolizes wealth and prosperity, a future my parents dreamed for me. 

That same dream drove them to leave their homeland at nearly 50 years old with six children. They wanted a brighter and more prosperous future for us, even if they would struggle to survive in a foreign land and rebuild their lives from nothing. 

As an immigrant and daughter of refugees, I often grappled with the mixed identities that came with being transplanted to the United States. I grew up on free school lunches, donated clothing, and Saturday mornings in line at the food bank or social security office. In the evenings, we enjoyed home-cooked family dinners with a background of Vietnamese opera and karaoke. 

March 1996 — My family’s first photo in America after landing in San Francisco.

At school, I hid these parts of myself because most children my age were busy feeding their Tamagotchis or listening to the newest hits on CD players. I spent most of my school days hiding my love for Vietnamese music, taking recess in teachers’ rooms, and feeling isolated from my peers. That isolation was compounded by the shame and embarrassment of being unable to recognize my name when my teachers and peers spoke it. 

It wasn’t until after high school I realized the butchered pronunciations of my name and the “harmless” jokes likening my name to the sound of a lightsaber had eroded my confidence over the years. I wasn’t shy, but I dreaded meeting new people and explaining in vain how to pronounce my name. I wasn’t afraid of speaking up in class, but I feared having to answer when called by a name I didn’t recognize. I wasn’t ashamed of my name, but I resented the mispronunciations and missed opportunities that resulted from it. 

The summer before college, I decided to change that. With the help of my best friend, I chose the name Candace. Although the name has many meanings (title for a queen, innocence, purity), for me, it symbolized a pivotal step in my journey to redefine my cultural identity and find my sense of belonging in American society. 

April 2012 — Performing a traditional Vietnamese ribbon dance I co-choreographed for CalVSA’s annual culture show.

Equipped with a new name and a different community, I felt a renewed sense of confidence. I joined the Vietnamese Student Association (CalVSA) leadership, took classes I never dared to – like acting and spoken word, performed Vietnamese dances on a world-renowned stage, and delivered a commencement speech at my Southeast Asian graduation ceremony. During this journey, I often questioned my decision as others saw my name change as white-washing my ethnicity and forsaking my parents’ dream for me. After much reflection, I decided changing my name was not a rejection of my roots. Instead, it was the catalyst and confidence I needed to display my love for my culture unabashedly. 

I’m particularly grateful my journey to find a sense of belonging led me to Alaska Airlines. It’s a company that not only values diversity and inclusivity, but truly embodies it. During my first month on the job, I was invited to participate in the SF Chinese New Year Parade, where Alaska was the title sponsor.

Feb 2024 — Walking with colleagues alongside Alaska’s float at the SF Chinese New Year Parade.

Throughout the month and year, Alaska highlighted Lunar New Year and its commitment to the Asian community through internal and external events and stories, and created opportunities where employees like me were solicited to provide feedback. My third-grade self who sat in shame during school lunches would have never guessed one day I’d be in a position not only to embrace my Vietnamese culture, but use my experience as expertise that informs policies, events, and campaigns to benefit colleagues, guests, and the community at large. 

Now, when a colleague gets in my car, I’m not embarrassed they’ll be greeted by Vietnamese music; during work discussions, I proudly admit to my lack of knowledge of American movies, artists, and top hits; at the office, I readily code switch to Vietnamese to connect with colleagues and customers; and all my business cards and social accounts proudly bear my new full name, accents and all – Candace Mỹ Nhung Lê. 

Editor’s note: When Candace first wrote this story, she was working on the public affairs team for Alaska Airlines. Last year, she followed her dream to become a pilot and applied for Alaska’s Ascend Pilot Academy, a partnership with Hillsboro Aero Academy.

Candace received her private pilot’s license in August 2023 and just became instrument rated this week (instrument rated means she can fly in low visibility by reference only to the aircraft instruments). She will be working on her commercial license with a stipend from the Ascend program. Learn more about the Ascend Pilot Academy here.

Water dunking is a common tradition for student pilots when they complete their first solo flight!

“I am a first-generation Vietnamese refugee. And I belong at Alaska.”

– Candace Mỹ Nhung Lê

“I Am …” at Alaska Airlines

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

We’re sharing Candace’s story in honor of Lunar New Year, which starts February 10. Alaska Airlines is also a proud sponsor of the Chinese New Year parade in San Francisco, and we’re looking forward to celebrating the Year of the Dragon with our guests and employees!

Welcoming Kapuahi, Hawaiian Airlines’ first Boeing 787 Dreamliner

February 23, 2024
blog
Hawaiian Airlines
10 min read

This morning, Hawaiʻi’s hometown carrier officially welcomed its first Boeing 787-9, which arrived in Honolulu last week after a delivery flight from North Charleston, South Carolina.

"This day has been a long time coming – in fact, today marks almost six years to the date when we first announced our investment in the 787-9 as the new flagship fleet for our company," said Peter Ingram, president and CEO of Hawaiian Airlines, during his welcome remarks.

"Mahalo to Boeing for working collaboratively with us as we adjusted the delivery schedule and to our entire 787-9 team for managing our project and getting our first aircraft to its new home here in Honolulu."

Darren Hulst, vice president of commercial marketing at Boeing (second from left), pictured with Hawaiian Airlines President and CEO Peter Ingram and flight crew.

Hawaiian and Boeing's leadership joined employees and local dignitaries at the Charles I. Elliott Maintenance and Cargo Facility to induct N781HA with a special welcome and blessing. Students from Windward Oʻahu’s Mālama Honua Public Charter School opened the event with an ‘oli (chant). The airline continued with remarks from special guests before the formal Hawaiian blessing of N781HA.

“From the moment you step onboard, you’ll see that the Hawaiian culture is woven into the design of this 787 Dreamliner. It immediately connects passengers to the beauty of the islands,” said Darren Hulst, vice president of commercial marketing at Boeing. “It’s an honor to know this airplane will bring Hawai’i to the world for years to come.”

(From left to right) Darren Hulst, vice president of commercial marketing at Boeing, Kahu Laʻakea Arista, Kumu Keoni Martin, and Peter Ingram, president and CEO of Hawaiian Airlines, during the blessing of Kapuahi.

Over 1,500 employees and their guests joined the festivities this morning, which included live music from Kawika Kahiapo, a Hawaiian slack-key artist and Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award-winner, and guided tours to experience the 787-9 for the first time. Teammates who attended relished the opportunity to be a part of another milestone in Hawaiian’s 94-year history and be among the first to step aboard N781HA.

Employees line up to see Hawaiian's first Boeing 787-9 after Kapuahiʻs blessing.

"You can tell right away when you first step on the aircraft that a lot of thought went into it; elements of Hawaiʻi are evident in all corners of the plane," said Charlie Morris, an Airbus A330 first officer at Hawaiian Airlines who will soon transition to flying the 787-9s. "I'm extremely excited to start flying it and to get the show on the road."

A Design Story Inspired by Voyaging Ancestors

From the l ook and feel of its interior to its naming, nearly every element of Hawaiian’s 787-9 fleet celebrates early Polynesian navigators who sailed the Pacific by observing the stars, sun, winds, waves and wildlife. The airline worked with design consultant Teague to realize its vision of honoring Hawaiian culture and voyaging in a modern airplane.

Additionally, nods to Hawaiʻi’s natural environment are abundant, from wall panels in native wood grains to the lavatory flooring inspired by shimmering black volcanic sand, and laminates and fabrics reflecting the forms of native Hawaiian plants. Guests will also learn ‘Ōlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language) as they locate their seat row number and reference other placards installed throughout the airplane.

The 300-seat airplane also features Hawaiian’s newest premium product, the Leihōkū (garland of stars) Suites: 34 suites that envelop guests in a tranquil space with lie-flat seating, an 18-inch in-flight entertainment screen, personal power outlets, wireless cell phone charging and direct aisle access. Set in a 1-2-1 configuration, the suites offer privacy or a shared experience with combinable double suites that allow couples to fall asleep while gazing at a starlit ceiling.

Revealing N781HA’s Name

As is customary for every aircraft in Hawaiian’s fleet, each aircraft is given a culturally significant name. In the case of the airline’s long-haul, widebody fleet, these names come from stars and constellations used in the traditions of Polynesian navigators. This morning, N781HA’s official name, Kapuahi, was unveiled during the welcoming ceremony.

Kapuahi pictured outside of Hawaiianʻs Charles I. Elliott Maintenance and Cargo Facility.

Kapuahi is a red giant star known as Aldebaran in Western astronomy. It is the brightest star in the constellation Taurus and appears in the Pacific sky alongside Makali'i, a celestial cluster of great importance in Hawaiian storytelling, wayfinding and agriculture.

"As we journey across the Pacific and take people to and from Hawaiʻi on our planes, it is in the same spirit and tradition of Hawaiian voyaging. Our kinship with voyaging is rooted in our past, grounds us in our present and guides us toward our future. This connection is reflected in the design of our Boeing 787-9s, which further this effort to mingle with the stars and look to the constellations for direction as wayfinders often do in the canoe," explained Debbie Nakanelua-Richards, director of community and cultural relations at Hawaiian Airlines, in her remarks.

Names for Hawaiianʻs Boeing 787-9 aircraft were chosen under the guidance of three Polynesian Voyaging Society Hōkūleʻa captains: Kalā Babayan Tanaka, Catherine "Cat" Fuller and Shantell De Silva.

Students from Windward Oʻahu’s Mālama Honua Public Charter School, who are learning how to sail on traditional Hawaiian voyaging canoes, provided a special opening ʻoli (chant) for the event.

What’s Next for Hawaiian and its Boeing 787 Dreamliner

Over the next two months, Hawaiian will conduct familiarization flights between its Hawaiʻi and North America stations. Kapuahi will debut to passengers on April 15, when it will begin operating the carrier’s nonstop, daily Honolulu-San Francisco service, and later be joined by N780HA, which is scheduled to be delivered and named next month. Together, the airplanes will operate Hawaiian's Honolulu-Los Angeles (HA3) service, starting May 14, and Honolulu-Phoenix flights, beginning May 15.

Hulst and Ingram during the welcoming ceremony for Hawaiianʻs first Boeing 787-9.

Hawaiian expects to have a total of three of its 12 787-9s by the end of the year.

The long-awaited arrival of its Boeing 787 Dreamliners adds to recent milestones for Hawaiian, which include becoming the world’s first major carrier to deploy Starlink Wi-Fi, preparing to combine with Alaska Airlines and celebrating its 95th anniversary in November.

Ingram added, "Ultimately, the 787-9 is more than just a new aircraft. It represents an exciting growth phase for our company as we build on our 95 years of service and connect more people with aloha. I am excited for you to be among the first to see it, and even more excited for our employees to see it for the first time along with their ‘ohana. They have waited a long time for this special day."

For a gallery of images from todayʻs event, click here.
To view and download b-roll, click here.
For a gallery of general Boeing 787 images, click here.

Want to try out Hawaiian’s new Boeing 787 Dreamliner? Tickets are available at www.HawaiianAirlines.com.

Hawaiian Debuts High-Speed Starlink Internet on Select Flights

Hawaiian Airlines Begins Ticket Sales for Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner

Hawaiian Airlines Unveils Boeing 787 Dreamliner Cabin Design; Introduces Leihōkū Suites

Alaska Airlines adds nonstop service between Portland and Atlanta this fall

February 23, 2024
Destinations
Alaska Airlines
2 min read

We’re the largest carrier in Portland offering flights to 54 nonstop destinations

Alaska Airlines continues to grow in Portland to provide our guests with more choice and convenience with nonstop service to Atlanta beginning this fall. The daily flight starts Oct. 1 and will operate year-round. Tickets will be available for purchase starting this weekend at alaskaair.com.

For more than 20 years, we’ve been the largest carrier in Portland – one of our key West Coast gateways. We’re always looking for ways to connect the Rose City to other destinations across our network. We believe our flights to Atlanta will be a popular addition for our guests heading to the South,” said Kirsten Amrine, vice president of revenue management and network planning for Alaska Airlines.

With the addition of our Portland-Atlanta flight, we’ll now serve 54 nonstop destinations from Portland. On Nov. 17, we began nonstop service to Miami, and year-round flights to Nashville will start on March 14.

Earlier this month, we announced the addition of more than 20 daily departures starting this summer to sought-after destinations from Portland. Our capacity has increased by 25%, improving connectivity and providing additional travel options.

All our guests can take advantage of a premium travel experience on their next Alaska flight. We are the West Coast’s premier airline offering our flyers the most legroom in First Class (excluding lie-flat seats) and Premium Class; no change fees; multiple fare offerings; the most generous loyalty program with Mileage Plan with the fastest path to elite status; 30 global partners; and West Coast food and beverage on board.

With power outlets at every seat on our mainline aircraft, you can enjoy hundreds of free movies and TV shows that can be streamed to your device during the flight. Our aircraft are also enabled with streaming-fast satellite Wi-Fi available for purchase and the option to pre-order from a range of fresh meal selections to make sure you get what you want.

Alaska Airlines adds co-branded IPA to premium beverage line-up

February 20, 2024
Guest Experience
Alaska Airlines
4 min read

Two beloved Pacific Northwest brands come together to create the ‘Cloud Cruiser,’ a co-branded IPA now being served 30,000+ feet in the air and in select Lounges

Alaska Airlines is now serving its first-ever custom craft beer brewed for the carrier by Seattle-based Fremont Brewing. Alaska’s newest IPA will be offered complimentary in First and Premium Class, for purchase in the Main Cabin and served in select Lounges.

The ‘Cloud Cruiser’ is the result of two beloved and popular Pacific Northwest brands coming together to create a top-tier beverage to add to our premium line-up,” said Todd Traynor-Corey, Alaska Airlines managing director of guest products. “The only place in the world you’ll be able to find this one-of-a-kind craft beer is if you’re flying on Alaska or in one of our lounges. We have already received feedback from the first guests to taste our new premium West Coast product who say they can’t wait to fly us again and order another can of ‘Cloud Cruiser.’”

Fremont Brewing, which crafts small batch artisan beers in the Fremont neighborhood of Seattle using the very best local ingredients, worked closely with Alaska to produce a variety of blends to taste test 30,000 feet in the air before both companies chose the bright orange, melon and tropical notes of the brewery’s India pale ale.

“‘Cloud Cruiser’ IPA is brewed with a select blend of malts and Washington grown to stay fresh in the air with you,” said Matt Lincecum, Fremont Brewing’s Founder and Owner. “Fremont craft ‘Cloud Cruiser’ using years of experience providing beer to Alaska’s flights across the country. Brewed Fresh to be Brought Fresh to you. Because Fresh Beer Matters!”

The uniquely designed can showcases an Alaska Airlines 737-8 MAX soaring among the clouds above a retro-inspired backdrop of snow-capped mountains, trees and water synonymous with Washington state.

Alaska and Fremont creative artists worked collaboratively from brainstorming ideas for the co-branded can to the final drawing board.

“The collaboration between Alaska and Fremont is not just about the artwork on the can, it is the story of two Seattle-based brands that share common values, coming together to create a remarkable product we hope brings a smile to our guests who drink it,” said Jonny Mack, Alaska’s studio creative manager.

“We felt that a national park inspired design with one of our aircraft, in Alaska colors, speaks to our roots in the Pacific Northwest. The creativity and thoughtfulness that went into the design of this can is just another example of bringing to life our value of ‘Being Remarkable.’ It’s amazing to be part of an Alaska Air first and I’ll raise a can of ‘Cloud Cruiser’ to many more!” said Mack.

Download media kit for images

Meet the Artists

Jonny Mack leads The Studio and has worked at Alaska Airlines since 2017. His most recognized work includes the design of several of our famous holiday sweaters and more than 20 special liveries to name a few. Among his favorite is the “Our Commitment” aircraft, which features the profiles of the next generation of leaders: the children, grandchildren and mentees of Alaska’s employees. Jonny’s son is among those faces.

“Every single day, I am excited by the work that I get to do and the impact it has on our guests,” said Mack. “It’s really amazing to be part of an Alaska Air first. I’ll raise a can of ‘Cloud Cruiser’ to many more!”

Dan Stuckey grew up in Pennsylvania and moved to Seattle. As luck would have it, his neighbor was starting a brewery and the rest is history. Dan currently lives in California with his wife and children.

“It was a pleasure collaborating with the Alaska Airlines team to develop the Cloud Cruiser can—representing the iconic Alaska Airlines plane and logo in the sunset sky against the background of the Cascade Mountain range—we had fun using every color we could squeeze onto this can,” said Dan Stuckey, Fremont Brewing Graphics Manager.

Hawaiian Holdings Stockholders Approve Acquisition by Alaska Air Group

February 16, 2024
releases
Hawaiian Airlines
4 min read

HONOLULU – Hawaiian Holdings, Inc. (“Hawaiian”) (NASDAQ: HA) today announced that its stockholders have voted to adopt the merger agreement with Alaska Air Group, Inc. (“Alaska”) (NYSE: ALK). A substantial majority of the holders of Hawaiian’s stock voted in favor of the merger, according to preliminary results from the special meeting held earlier today. Hawaiian will file the final voting results, as tabulated by an independent inspector of elections, on a Form 8-K with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

“Stockholder approval of our transaction with Alaska is an important milestone toward combining our airlines,” said Hawaiian Airlines President and CEO Peter Ingram. “Together, we will bring stronger competition to the U.S. airline industry, deliver more value to our guests and the communities that we serve, and provide greater job opportunities for our employees.”

The transaction remains subject to receipt of required regulatory approvals, along with other customary closing conditions. Hawaiian and Alaska continue to expect to complete the transaction within 12 to 18 months of announcement of the transaction, which occurred on Dec. 3, 2023.

About Hawaiian Airlines

Now in its 95th year of continuous service, Hawaiian is Hawaiʻi's biggest and longest-serving airline. Hawaiian offers approximately 150 daily flights within the Hawaiian Islands, and nonstop flights between Hawaiʻi and 15 U.S. gateway cities – more than any other airline – as well as service connecting Honolulu and American Samoa, Australia, Cook Islands, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea and Tahiti.

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

The airline is committed to connecting people with aloha. As Hawai'i's hometown airline, Hawaiian encourages guests to Travel Pono and experience the islands safely and respectfully.

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

Forward-Looking Statements

This communication contains forward-looking statements subject to the safe harbor protection provided by the federal securities laws, including statements relating to the expected timing of the closing of the pending acquisition (the “Transaction”) of Hawaiian by Alaska and the benefits of the Transaction. There can be no assurance that the Transaction will in fact be consummated. Risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include: the risk that a condition to closing of the Transaction may not be satisfied (or waived); the ability of each party to consummate the Transaction; that either party may terminate the merger agreement or that the closing of the Transaction might be delayed or not occur at all; possible disruption related to the Transaction to Alaska’s or Hawaiian’s current plans or operations, including through the loss of customers and employees; the diversion of management time and attention from ongoing business operations and opportunities; the response of competitors to the Transaction; a failure to (or delay in) receiving the required regulatory clearances for the Transaction; the outcome of any legal proceedings that could be instituted against Hawaiian, Alaska or others relating to the Transaction; legislative, regulatory and economic developments affecting the business of Alaska or Hawaiian; general economic conditions including those associated with pandemic recovery; the possibility and severity of catastrophic events, including but not limited to, pandemics, natural disasters, acts of terrorism or outbreak of war or hostilities; and other risks and uncertainties detailed in periodic reports that Alaska and Hawaiian file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements in this communication are based on information available to Hawaiian as of the date of this communication. Alaska and Hawaiian each expressly disclaim any obligation to publicly update or revise the forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

From dream to reality: Line aircraft technician trainer forges path in aviation

February 16, 2024
Community
Jillian Murrell
4 min read

Watch video👇🏼

Photos & video by Ingrid Barrentine

Darren, an Alaska Airlines line aircraft technician trainer based in San Francisco, was introduced to the airline industry by his mom, who served as a flight attendant.

“Being exposed to airplanes at a very young age, and being able to fly and go on trips was just amazing,” said Darren.

His mother introduced him to the joy of travel, often bringing him along on layover trips. He credits her for igniting his passion for aviation.

“I love airplanes, just seeing them every day, being able to touch them, and to allow others to realize that there’s many opportunities with Alaska.”

Darren knew he wanted to work for an airline after growing up in Florida. “I got tired of the heat and was like ‘I’m out.” After studying Aeronautics at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, Darren started his career as a Maintenance Technician with Virgin America.

A year and a half later, he became part of the Alaska family through the merging of the two companies. After a few years in a technician role, he saw an opportunity to grow into a training role.

It’s been a nice ride being able to see the difference in people that come through and the impacts I’ve been able to make with them as a trainer … a few coworkers have told me they will never forget the way I made them feel, and how much effort and work I put into them,” he said.

In his spare time, Darren doesn’t stray far from aircraft. In addition to his maintenance career, he is also pursuing his private pilot license. There have been bumps along the way personally and financially, but he doesn’t let it stop him. If there’s one thing Darren will say about himself, it’s that he is determined and ambitious.

The fact that he was born with mild to severe hearing loss has not held him back in his pursuit of excellence in his career. Often, people don’t realize that he has hearing loss, but he certainly doesn’t shy away from letting people know.

“I always share that because that’s part of me,” said Darren. “Just because I have a disability doesn’t mean that you need to avoid or feel like we can’t communicate.”

Darren is not one to shy away from a challenge and acknowledges that he often must work harder than most given his circumstance.

“I have felt overlooked at times in my life because of my disability, and not given a chance. So, when I sense that, or feel it indirectly, it tells me I’m just going to have to go above and beyond, which I always do,” he says.

There can be many misconceptions about working with someone with a disability, but Darren says he has a team that surrounds him with support and care.

“My co-workers … I cannot be thankful enough for the support they give and being able to depend on them, and they can depend on me,” he said. “Those friendships are lasting because there are things I’m always going to remember from my time here at Alaska.”

“I am a hard worker, and I am ambitious. And I belong in Alaska.”

– Darren, Alaska Airlines line aircraft technician trainer, SFO

“I Am …” at Alaska Airlines

We’re sharing Darren’s story in honor of Black History Month, which starts February 1 through March 1. At Alaska, we believe Black History Month is an opportunity to look back and to look forward – to reflect on how far we’ve come, and to recognize how much work we have left to do.

Love is in the air: Couple gets married on an Alaska Airlines flight, sparking countless love stories

February 14, 2024
Community
Alaska Airlines
8 min read

This Valentine’s Day, we popped a question to our guests: “Has Alaska ever played a role in your love story?” And so many of you said YES! Check out some of the stories we received below.

Saying “I do” at 30,000+ feet

It’s not every day you witness a wedding on a flight, but if you were on Cydne & Grant’s flight to from Portland to Las Vegas last October, you did!

When planning their wedding, the adventurous couple tried to meet their friends & family in the middle of Portland and Salt Lake City. They decided on a reception in Vegas and a sky-high wedding. Cydne admits she jokingly brought up the idea, “why don’t we get married on an airplane?” Her then-fiancé, Grant, LOVED it.

“After shocking all the Customer Care employees at Alaska with our idea, we finally got an answer, ‘yes we can do it—but we have to choose a flight long enough to have time to stand and get the pilots okay when we arrive.’ We held our breath for the day in hopes of good weather and the pilots’ final okay.”

While weddings on our aircraft aren’t a regular occurrence, our crew went above & beyond to create an unforgettable experience for Cydne, Grant, and their loved ones on their special day.

As nervous as we were for the unknown, the flight and ceremony were perfect. It could not have gone better! We are so thankful for Alaska and all they did for us that day. We continue to fly Alaska everywhere—they will forever be special to us. I already have 3 trips planned this year on Alaska!”
– Cydne

Together, their wedding party was about 30 people. Grant and Cydne enjoyed First Class, both for the first time! Her kids were seated in Premium, right behind them so they could still see them and have them close during the ceremony.

“We had one of our best friends, who is ordained, marry us. I walked down the aisle of First Class, and we said our vows where First Class meets Premium,” she said. “When we landed in Vegas, we were escorted by an Alaska employee who took our group through the airport down to baggage claim where Alaska had a sign and gifts waiting for us. We posed for pics with the flight crew and station employees.”

Photos by EMJ PHOTOGRAPHY

Going the distance.

Alaska Airlines made our long-distance relationship possible! I live in California and my boyfriend lives in Oregon- thanks to Alaska we’ve been able to see each other almost every other weekend. After a year of long distance, we’re finally moving in together. Thank you, Alaska! ❤️

– Jenefer

A quick connection.

I was heading home after visiting my parents in Spokane when I noticed a handsome stranger sitting in the waiting area for my short flight to Seattle. When we boarded, he was one row up and across the aisle from me. His friends were seated directly across the aisle from me and started asking about the book I was reading. Eventually, the handsome stranger turned around and started asking me questions and we totally hit it off. We talked for the rest of the flight about skiing, the Pacific Northwest, and my recent relocation to DC.

When we landed in Seattle, he asked me to lunch. He is now my husband of twelve years, and we have three sons. We would like to say that our first date was at the SeaTac C gates.

– Katherine

Nothing’s better than an airport hug.

My now husband and I first started dating when we lived in Seattle. When we met, he was going to be moving to Chicago to finish school, so our time was meant to be short. However, our love blossomed and after a couple of months, we decided to give long distance a try. Alaska ferried each of us back and forth each month for alternating Chicago & Seattle visits. Alaska is absolutely a part of our love story—sitting on board in sheer excitement and anticipation waiting to see each other is an amazing memory and part of our budding romance journey. And now almost 9 years later, we have Alaska to thank for keeping us together that first year!

– Ian

oneworld, one big proposal!

Amar & I were in a long-distance relationship for the first 1.5 years. Alaska Airlines (along with a number of oneworld carriers) helped connect our cities but also our hearts.

To not include Alaska Airlines as part of our proposal story and celebration wouldn’t be right. We had the opportunity to do a proposal photoshoot on a flight from Los Angeles to Washington, DC with the help of such a fantastic crew! With so much “love in the air,” we look forward to traveling on Alaska Airlines from Washington, DC to Los Angeles again, where we are getting married this June!

– Anuj

A decade in the making.

My husband and I were long-distance for about 3 years. I lived in Southern California, and he lived in Portland, Oregon. For those 3 years, we only flew with Alaska because they had the best times and prices between Ontario and Portland. Without Alaska, we would not have been able to maintain our relationship. Thank you. We just got married this past October and celebrated 10 years together.

– Becca

From the ground up, love wins.

William and I both work for Alaska. We met back in 2016 as Ramp Agents for Horizon Air in Los Angeles. To be exact, we met at Gate 66 at Terminal 6 at LAX. We had been loading an aircraft for a flight and William came to assist with the flight. 8 years later, and engaged for 4 years, we both work side by side, still!

William is now the Station Manager of San Diego, and I (Kristina) am now the Inflight Supervisor in San Diego. We both built our careers here at Alaska Air Group from being Ramp agents, Fleet agents, stores agents, leadership roles, inflight and even moved from LAX to SEA to SAN. I would of never of met William if it wasn’t for Alaska Air Group. Our love for Alaska & aviation has only grown with the love that we have for each other.

– Kristina

In love with each other & Alaska since ’98.

Our love story began when I traveled to San Diego from Seattle for a summer vacation in 1998. A Seattle girl meets a San Diego boy. Love at first sight! It was a year of long-distance dating and travel on Alaska Airlines to visit each other almost every month. I still have the paper ticket mementos. Alaska helped keep the love alive and make a long-distance relationship seem not so far away.

This Seattle girl eventually moved to her dream city with her dream boyfriend. A year later, we both moved to Seattle. Fast forward to 2006 we got married in San Diego. Alaska was there to help fly family members to join us for the big day.

My love and I travel wherever Alaska goes, with the kids often in tow. We love how Alaska has been part of our love story and is a huge part of our family. Anniversary trips, family vacations, weddings, and that epic 1998/1999 year of travel is where our love story began. 🥰

– Sarah

A match made in paradise.

Imagine being handed a ticket to paradise, not knowing it would also lead you to the love of your life. That’s exactly what happened to me, thanks to Alaska Airlines. I was set for a solo adventure in Kauai, the Garden Isle, known for its lush landscapes and serene beauty.

On a spur-of-the-moment decision, I invited Bryan, a recent acquaintance with a spirit as adventurous as mine, to join me. The island’s magic, coupled with unexpected companionship, turned our journey into a tapestry of memorable experiences and emotions.

Our love story owes its beginning to a generous gesture from Alaska Airlines. A solo journey transformed into a shared adventure, laying the foundation for a bond that would grow beyond the confines of the trip. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most extraordinary journeys begin with a single ticket to an unknown destination.

– Tiffany

Love is truly in the air.

Josh and I met while working at Alaska at Portland International Airport and we still work there today! We love working flights together. We have taken multiple trips on our flight benefits and have made awesome memories. I don’t think I would have ever met him not working for Alaska ❤️ thank you for helping me find my best friend 😉

– Maggie

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

February 13, 2024
Company
Alaska Airlines
2 min read

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

We remain optimistic in the negotiations process. With six recently closed labor deals at the company and a tentative agreement reached in January for a new contract for our technicians, we’re hopeful to do the same for our flight attendants as soon as possible. AFA and Alaska leadership have met twice in the last three weeks and are continuing to bargain and meet with a mediator. Discussions have been productive and in the last two sessions, we reached four tentative agreements.

We respect our flight attendants’ right to communicate what’s important to them during the negotiating process. You may have heard about one recent step, called a strike authorization vote, which was conducted by the union. This type of vote is a common step in the negotiation process. It is not a call to go on strike right now.

The voting ends today, and the results could be released at any time. We expect our flight attendants will approve the measure based on previous industry votes.

Regardless of the vote results, this does not mean our flight attendants are on strike or about to strike. Our guests and operation will not be impacted by the decision in the near term or possibly at all.

While talk of a strike is concerning, especially for our guests and the communities that rely on our service, it would not happen quickly. Many more steps would need to take place over many months, if not longer, before a strike is even possible. See below for an overview of the negotiations process.

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

Alaska Airlines better connects Portland with more flights to popular destinations

February 12, 2024
Destinations
Alaska Airlines
3 min read

As the West Coast’s premier airline, we offer our guests a premium travel experience with the most legroom in First Class* and Premium Class and a generous loyalty program

Alaska Airlines is ramping up our growth in Portland to provide our guests with more choice and convenience. We’ve added more than 20 daily departures starting this summer to sought-after destinations from the Rose City. Our capacity has increased by 25%, improving connectivity and providing additional travel options.

We’ve been the largest carrier in Portland for more than 20 years. We don’t take that for granted. It’s important for us to provide our guests with a variety of convenient flight options at PDX along with the addition of new routes. We know travelers have a choice and we want them to fly with us,” said Kirsten Amrine, vice president of revenue management and network planning for Alaska Airlines.

All our guests – whether in Portland or across our expanding network – can take advantage of a premium travel experience on their next Alaska flight. We are the West Coast’s premier airline offering our flyers the most legroom in First Class* and Premium Class; no change fees; multiple fare offerings; the most generous loyalty program with Mileage Plan with the fastest path to elite status; 30 global partners; and West Coast food and beverage on board.

With Sunday’s big game, we turned to the biggest advertising moment of the year to spotlight our premium products and services, including highlighting our most legroom. Our new campaign can now be seen in the Portland, Seattle, San Francisco/Bay Area and San Diego markets.

Our winter-spring seasonal flight between Portland and Redmond/Bend is so popular that we added a second daily roundtrip starting Oct. 1. We also extended our nonstop seasonal flying from Portland to Billings, Kansas City and Minneapolis until the end of the year – service was set to end in late summer. Tickets for all our flights are available for purchase at alaskaair.com.

Book Now

Alaska currently serves 53 nonstop destinations from Portland, including a few new destinations on our route map. On Nov. 17, we began nonstop service to Miami. Year-round flights to Nashville start on March 14. By this summer, we’ll have more than 100 average daily departures from Portland.

“We’re thrilled about the added flights out of PDX. As our largest carrier, more Alaska flights means even more options for travelers, whether they’re flying cross-country or within the state. And the increase in service means more visitors for our concession and ground travel partners – the local businesses that are the heart of our region and bring so much excitement to our airport,” said Dan Pippenger, chief aviation officer at the Port of Portland.

We’re excited about our future in Portland. We’re putting the final touches on the design of our all-new Flagship Lounge at PDX. It’s currently scheduled to open in the 2025-26 timeframe with more than 10,000 square feet of space that will provide double the seating of our current Lounge spaces. The atmosphere will be infused with the Pacific Northwest spirit like our award-winning Flagship Lounge at the N Concourse in Seattle. Lounge members and guests will enjoy a barista station with hand-crafted espresso beverages and drip coffee from Stumptown; complimentary beer, wine and house spirits; our signature Loungers to relax in; and a custom fireplace.

Alaska Airlines B and C lounges at Portland International Airport.

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

Hawaiian Debuts High-Speed Starlink Internet on Select Flights

February 8, 2024
blog
Hawaiian Airlines
4 min read

Staying connected on a Hawaiian Airlines flight between the U.S. Mainland and Hawaiʻi, one of the most geographically remote archipelagos in the world, will become as effortless as using your home internet – thanks to Starlink’s advanced internet technology.

Hawaiian's industry-leading Starlink Wi-Fi service is now available on select flights.

Hawaiian today became the world’s first major carrier to deploy Starlink’s high-speed, low-latency broadband internet after it debuted the service onboard one of its Airbus A321neo, N228HA, which flew from Honolulu to Long Beach. The carrier’s Wi-Fi, which is rolling out on select A321neo aircraft as they are activated over the coming months, is complimentary and available the moment guests step onboard the aircraft – without tedious registration pages and clunky payment portals.

“In marrying this best-in-class technology with our authentic Hawaiian hospitality, we are offering our guests a travel experience unlike any other airline flying to and from the Hawaiian Islands,” said Chris Liebertz, senior director of engineering at Hawaiian Airlines.

A Test of Strength

The speed of Hawaiian's new in-flight internet service allows streaming, gaming and other connected experiences often enjoyed at home – even while traversing the farthest reaches of the Pacific Ocean.

Starlink will gradually roll out on Hawaiian's A321neo fleet, giving guests an unparalleled in-flight connectivity experience.

“Starlink’s self-designed aviation terminal installed on Hawaiian's aircraft allows each plane to receive strong, fast internet signals from the satellites orbiting above Earth,” said Will Seidel, director of Starlink engineering at SpaceX. “The terminal will seamlessly switch connections from satellite to satellite as planes cross the Pacific, providing an uninterrupted internet experience for passengers.”

The Starlink terminal is installed on the top of the aircraft, as shown in the bottom right of this image.

To ensure high performance, Hawaiian and Starlink conducted tests, including live flights to evaluate connectivity under different conditions and identify opportunities to improve user experience.

“During these tests, employees streamed shows and movies, played video games with friends, downloaded and uploaded large files, worked in real time, and scrolled on social media,” Liebertz explained. “Each assessment then allowed us to fine-tune the service to the high-performance level for which Starlink is known.”

A select group of Hawaiian Airlines employees were invited to a special charter flight between Honolulu and Hilo to test the Starlink Wi-Fi using their various personal devices.

Rolling Out the Service

Before the public launch, Hawaiian and Starlink “worked alongside the FAA to verify that our aviation terminal (antenna) met strict safety standards,” Seidel explained.

“When we finished our tests on the ground and in-flight on the first A321neo, the FAA certified Starlink for use on the rest of Hawaiian’s A321neo fleet – as well as any other A321neo,” he added.

Hawaiian is working with Starlink to roll out the technology across its long-haul fleet. The carrier expects to install and activate antennas on all its 18 A321neo aircraft by spring, followed by its A330s by the end of the year, and later its new flagship aircraft, the Boeing 787-9. Until it is available fleetwide, the service will surprise and delight guests as they board their flights.

A Starlink decal, located to the right of the main aircraft door and shown below, will mark each aircraft equipped with the advanced internet technology.

For employees like Liebertz, who has been close to the project since before it was announced in April 2022, the launch was a momentous occasion.

“Today marks a huge milestone not just for my team but for both companies. It has been an incredible journey working with the Starlink team to get our A321neos equipped with this exceptional service,” Liebertz explained.

“I’m looking forward to my next flight so I can join our guests in experiencing how game-changing this technology will be for aviation.”

Spring break escapes: Your ultimate guide to leisure destinations with Alaska Airlines

February 8, 2024
Destinations
Alaska Airlines
2 min read

If you are dreaming of your next warm, sunny vacation, these leisure destinations are must-adds to your list of spring break and summer getaways.

MEXICO

Alaska Airlines has served Mexico for more than 35 years. We now fly to eight incredible cities in Mexico, each with a unique blend of history, vibrant culture, natural beauty, and entertainment, including Cancun, Guadalajara, Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo, Los Cabos, Loreto, Manzanillo, Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta.

We’ve hand picked five of the best spots in Mexico for stunning beaches, exciting nightlife and the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in a beautiful tropical setting.

Book Now

BELIZE (BZE)

This spring break, dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Belize Barrier Reef for world-class snorkeling and diving experiences, explore ancient Mayan ruins like those at Xunantunich, and trek through lush rainforests teeming with wildlife for an unforgettable adventure in paradise.

Book Now

LIBERIA, COSTA RICA (LIR)

Visitors can hike through the stunning landscapes of Rincon de la Vieja National Park, where you can witness volcanic activity and so much natural beauty. For those looking for more down time, you can rejuvenate in natural hot springs, and for thrill-seekers, we recommend experiencing canopy tours amidst lush tropical forests for an exhilarating eco-adventure.

Book Now

FLORIDA

If you’re looking for sun-soaked beaches, thrilling theme parks, and vibrant nightlife, offering a diverse range of activities for a memorable vacation experience—Florida is for you!

Whether it’s lounging on the sands of Miami Beach, enjoying world-class dining and shopping along Las Olas Boulevard or enduring thrill-seeking rides at Busch Gardens, Florida has something for every spring breaker.