Alaska Airlines is celebrating its 90th anniversary by giving all employees the gift of travel.
While many of us were instructed to stay home during the pandemic, airline employees were part of the essential workforce who remained on the front lines. Each day brought new challenges, regulations and precautions that our people had to carefully navigate while continuing to care for our guests, communities and each other.
As we inch our way to a new normal—happily seeing travelers’ pent-up desire to hop on a plane—Alaska is taking a moment to thank each employee for their relentless commitment to caring for our guests for 90 years & counting by giving them 90,000 miles to fly anywhere in the world.
As we celebrate 90 years of flying, we wouldn’t be where we are today without our incredible people who work nonstop to keep things moving, even throughout a global pandemic,” said CEO Ben Minicucci. “When you think about how many airlines have come and gone since 1932, it’s an amazing achievement that we’re still here and stronger than ever—it’s because of the genuine care and hard work our people bring to our operation every day.”
Our COO Constance von Muehlen surprised a few of our hardworking employees today with this exciting news!
The great thing about miles is they never expire and offer flexibility to travel not just on Alaska, but also on our oneworld partners like British Airways, Qantas, Qatar Airways, Finnair and our other airline partners. Travel awards begin at just 5,000 miles, and can be used to book First Class tickets, a relaxing stay at a hotel or tickets to an anticipated event—there are so many ways to use airline miles!
With 90,000 miles, you can plan a trip to almost anywhere in the world:
For instance, a roundtrip flight from Seattle up and down the West Coast starts at just 10,000 roundtrip, which means you can get you up to nine roundtrip flights!
Roundtrips from Seattle to New York start at 25,000 miles, or even visit Hawaii from San Francisco starting at 30,000 miles roundtrip.
Want to travel internationally? A roundtrip flight to Europe from the West Coast starts at 60,000 miles through our oneworld partners. Mileage prices do vary so search for your travel dates to see the prices for the dates and cabins you want to travel in.
Watch COO Constance von Muehlen surprise a few of our hardworking employees today with this exciting news:
Travel is what we do. It’s who we are. Here are some reasons why we love it:
Many of our employees come to work for an airline because of a passion for adventure and travel, so what better way to honor 90 years of flying than with the gift of travel?
In one word, we asked our network of employees to tell us why they travel and what motivates them to keep flying. We hope their answers inspire you to start planning your next trip.
I travel for nature,” says Matt, a senior software engineer in Seattle. “I try to find the natural beauty everywhere I roam.”
I travel to escape,” says Amanda, who works as an accounting specialist in Seattle. “This means I travel to get away from normal life, learn new things and then I appreciate the life I already have when I return!”
I travel for Knowledge,” says Nick, a customer care representative in Seattle. “I’m a huge science and history buff and I love the outdoors, so I travel the world visiting national parks, historical sites, museums or even just awesome mountains to climb.”
I travel because of friends,” says Ryan, a senior information security engineer. “Because I like creating fun, unique experiences. Time is the most valuable thing I have, and I like creating unique opportunities with them.”
Seatmates to soulmates: How one couple’s Alaska flight led to a proposal and swirl through the world
While deep into her episode of Jane the Virgin, Krystina Burton was waiting to board her Alaska Airlines flight from JFK to LAX, when a stranger sat close enough to her she could read the seat on his ticket.
The couple’s first selfie 💙
“I could see his ticket and that he’s going to be sitting next to me, and I remember thinking, ‘Really, this guy? He has no spatial awareness, and this is who I’m going to sit next to? Great,’” she said.
Gabriel Solberg—the “the guy with no spatial awareness”—remembers it much differently.
“Her story is not accurate,” he smiles via Zoom from his home in Germany. “I was tired. I remember wanting to get on the plane, there was nowhere to sit at the gate, so I just sat there for a moment and thought I was going to stand up soon. I didn’t notice her. ”
But he says he does remember Burton walking down the aisle toward her seat, fumbling with her headphones and cracking a smile at him as they made eye contact.
“She has a very charming smile. That’s the first time I really noticed her,” he said. “And then we just connected.”
The conversation between Solberg and Burton was so natural that the pair didn’t even notice there was a slight delay before takeoff. In fact, it was the highlight of the trip that ultimately changed their lives forever.
“I don’t even remember why we were stuck on the tarmac, we were just talking the whole time,” Burton said. “It was good that we were on the tarmac because we exchanged numbers and we texted immediately.”
In no time, the plane took off for their destination and so did their conversation. The professional dancer and tech worker watched three movies together and found themselves opening up about almost everything: past relationships, likes and dislikes, their travels and music. Burton likened it to a first date.
By the time they landed, they’d made plans to reconnect. Solberg made good on his word and returned to Los Angeles to see Burton the next week. The rest is history.
Alaska Airlines reminds me of how we met. It was also the airline I took back to LA, the airline that she came back to New York with me on,” Solberg said. “Our entire two-week experience was with Alaska Airlines.”
Fast forward nearly four years after that first connection on our flight— and the couple is now planning to say “I do!”
Solberg popped the question in 2019 during a vacation in Italy.
The pair travel the world together, and have a popular Instagram @swirlthroughtheworld where they post about their exciting nomadic lifestyle; including trips to Greece, Germany (where Burton is currently dancing for a production of Aladdin), Paris, Italy, France and St. Lucia.
Next year, they plan to return to the United States, where they say Alaska Airlines will once again be a part of their love story. They want to continue exploring the country.
I love Alaska Airlines, it’s the best airline for national travel in the U.S., hands down,” said Solberg.
Photos courtesy of Krystina Burton and Gabriel Solberg.
Flying Alaska Airlines this summer? 6 tips to make your next flight easier
Summer can fly by fast—and with record high travel volumes—we’re here to help you have a great trip and get you where you need to go.
We’ve pulled every lever in our control to increase our stability this summer, resulting in a strong June in which we completed over 99% of our flights. This reliability came from the combination of proactively trimming our summer schedule earlier this spring and hiring and training thousands of new frontline employees. As in the communities around us, positive COVID cases continue to impact our employees, adding some uncertainty to our staffing levels.
Here are some tips to help you fly through summer:
1. Plan ahead
Give yourself plenty of time to get to and through the airport. Parking, checking bags and getting through security can take longer during peak travel times. Visit our airport guides before your trip for recommended arrival times, ticket counter hours, airport services and more. Remember: We begin boarding flights 30 minutes before takeoff.
Save time through security with SEA Spot Saver, a reservation program to get you through the security process quicker in Seattle. Similar spot saver programs are also at CHS, EWR, MCO, PHX, YYC.
Join a trusted traveler program Membership in programs like TSA Pre-Check®, Global Entry, Nexus or SENTRI allow you access to the faster security screening lanes at participating airports, where you don’t have to remove your shoes, belts, or light jackets, and your 3-1-1 liquids bag and laptop can stay in your carry-on.
2. Avoid lines, go green, download our app
Alaska’s app is the way to go! Get your boarding pass, check your flight status and plan your trip all from the palm of your hand. Download the Alaska Airlines app for iPhone, Android, or Windows Phone before your next flight.
Pro tip: Connecting flights can also increase your chances of experiencing a delay, so if you can fly nonstop, book it!
3. Pre-order onboard meals
Enjoy fresh ingredients inspired by the West Coast, from snacks to freshly prepared meals, by pre-ordering your favorites ahead of your flight via your reservation on our app or alaskaair.com. Meal orders are open 14 days before departure.
Pro tip: Mileage Plan members can store a method of payment in their Mileage Plan account for touch-free inflight purchases, including food and beverages. Join/Sign in Mileage Plan
4. Stream + surf with $8 Wi-Fi
Never miss out on your latest show or searching for something in the sky with our new $8 flat rate for Wi-Fi. You can connect to Wi-Fi from the moment you board our planes enabled with satellite Wi-Fi, instead of waiting for the connection to kick in after the boarding door closes—it’s seamless connectivity from gate to gate.
Our team is here to take care of you 24/7. If you need to reach us, text us at 82008 or chat with us. You can also call our reservations team at 800-252-7522.
If your flight is affected by a schedule change, we will move you to the next available flight. If your new flight works for you, great! We’ll see you onboard—if not, here’s what to do if your flight has been changed or canceled.
6. Check the weather if flying with pet(s)
Sunny summer days can bring high temperatures in some cities we serve. When temperatures forecasted exceed safe pet travel limits, we’re unable to fly animals in our baggage compartment. Learn more about traveling with pets.
7 ways to make the most of your Mileage Plan elite status
Those who get it, never want to lose it: Elite status in Alaska Airlines’ Mileage Plan. It’s that good.
With an array of benefits, it can be overwhelming and, frankly, easy to overlook what your status brings to the table when you fly with us and our fellow oneworld Alliance members. We’re here to change that, especially as many of us are travelling more.
1. Land an upgraded seat – right away.
As you might already know, elite members on Alaska enjoy complimentary First Class and Premium Class upgrades when available.
Each tier has a set of fare classes that are eligible for instant upgrades that can be used as early as when you book your trip. If upgrade space is available on your flight and you book one of these fare classes, you’ll be upgraded immediately.
If no upgrades are available at booking, or you didn’t book one of the fare classes eligible for upgrades at booking, you’ll be put on the upgrade waitlist. Where you sit on the waitlist depends on four factors:
Your elite tier
The fare class your ticket is booked in
If you reached Million Miler or Two Million Miler with us (this is a new addition)
The final tiebreaker, when all of the above is equal, is the date and time you’re added to the waitlist
The upgrade window opens five days (120 hours) before travel for MVP Gold 75K and 100K, three days (72 hours) prior for MVP Gold and two days (48 hours) prior for MVP.
It helps to know that not every seat that’s shown on our seat map is eligible for an upgrade – even within the upgrade window – and sometimes upgrade space is not available until closer to departure. Friendly reminder: Saver fares are not eligible for upgrades.
We recently made a notable change: The upgrade list now shows all guests who are eligible for upgrades – not just those who have checked in. You’ll see the latest upgrade list beginning 24 hours before the flight on our app, online or at the gate. Dive into more details about qualifying for complimentary upgrades.
2. Share your status with friends or family.
Every year, MVP Golds and higher receive four Gold guest upgrades. This is a great way to share your status with people like friends or family.
You can apply the Gold guest upgrade to a reservation you’ve already made, or you can see where the guest upgrade can be used instantly when you’re booking a flight.
Like complimentary upgrades, using guest upgrades is dependent on space availability. Top things to know when using this perk:
Not all fares are eligible. To see which ones you can apply a guest upgrade to, select “MVP Gold guest” in search results and look for flights with a blue “F”.
Be flexible. Off-peak flights or dates may likely have more availability for instant upgrades using a guest upgrade.
Check back closer to travel. If no upgrade space is available when you book, visit the Manage Reservation page closer to your trip since upgrade availability may change.
Note: Not all fares are eligible to have a Gold guest upgrade applied. We’ve mapped out specifics of what you need to know when using Gold guest upgrades.
3. Earn bonus miles.
As an elite, you earn bonus miles with every flight you take with Alaska or our partners. Mileage Plan offers the highest elite bonuses in the sky, getting you to that next award even faster. Elite bonus miles are earned on top of any base flight miles earned, but not on promotional bonus miles.
Mileage Plan offers the highest elite bonuses in the sky, getting you to that next award even faster. Elite bonus miles don’t count as elite qualifying miles or toward tier requalification.
Elite bonus miles range from 50% of base miles to 150% of base miles depending on your tier. Learn more about our tiers.
4. Keep your status when you fly on world class airlines.
If you have elite status with us, you automatically have Priority tier privileges with the oneworld Alliance, a group of the world’s leading airlines with connections to more than 900 destinations in 170 territories.
MVP members a oneworld Ruby
MVP Gold members a oneworld Sapphire
MVP Gold 75K/100K members a oneworld Emerald
The benefits are worth crowing about: Our elite flyers can get priority check-in, access to preferred seating and priority waitlist when on standby, priority boarding, bonus miles and more depending on tier status. oneworld Sapphire and Emerald members can also access partner lounges when traveling internationally.
The specific benefits vary depending on the airline you’re flying on, and it’s helpful to know that you will not necessarily receive the exact same benefits you’d receive on Alaska. For example, you’re eligible for complimentary upgrades on Alaska but upgrades are currently not a oneworld benefit.
5. Enjoy added benefits when flying American Airlines.
American Airlines is a oneworld member like us, but we also share a longstanding partnership. As a Mileage Plan elite, you’ll enjoy added benefits when flying on American Airlines – on top of your oneworld Priority privileges:
All our elites are eligible for complimentary access to select extra legroom seats known as Main Cabin Extra on American Airlines when there’s availability. Unlike Alaska’s Premium Class, Main Cabin Extra does not have a waitlist if these seats are full.
All elites enjoy free bags and priority boarding.
MVP Gold 75K and 100K members are eligible for space-available complimentary business or first-class upgrades on American Airlines in the U.S. and between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Bermuda and Central America, with confirmation as early as 72 hours before departure if seats are available. You’ll be prioritized after American Airlines’ Platinum Pro members. Members are now eligible for upgrades whether the flight was booked with us or on American Airlines.
We know changes happen. MVP Gold 75K and 100k receive complimentary, same day confirmed changes on American Airlines.
6. Treat yourself in the Lounge and onboard.
Our guests love our Lounges. Our MVP Gold 75K/100K members receive four complimentary day passes every year. You can even share them with family and friends if you like. Interested in purchasing a Lounge membership? All our elites get a $100 discount.
On board, we like to pass along special somethings to our MVP Gold members and higher when they’re with us in the main cabin. Savor a complimentary premium beverage or a jcoco-branded chocolate bar. Our MVP Gold 100K members are also offered a light snack in the main cabin, such as popcorn, potato chips or chocolate almonds.
7. Keep your status with elite-qualifying miles.
Elite-qualifying miles (EQMs) are the ticket to earning and keeping your status with us. Our EQMs are accrued based on the distance you fly and any class of service bonuses.
You can gain elite status based on the eligible miles earned or segments flown—not just on Alaska—but also flying on our additional airline partners.
Note: Each of our airline partners has a different earn rate that may not always equal 100% of the miles flown.
In addition to the total eligible EQMs or total segments flown, there’s a minimum number of trips required on flights marketed and operated by Alaska in order to earn or keep your status.
Since EQMs vary by the type of fare you book, certain fare classes – such as First Class – earn even more. It’s an amazing way to rack up EQMs and get you to elite status faster. For example, if you purchase a First Class ticket on Alaska, you’ll earn 200% of your total flown miles as EQMs. Learn more about the EQMs you can earn with us.
Our Mileage Plan offers the fastest path to elite status in the United States. Not only are the elite qualifying thresholds some of the lowest compared to other U.S. airlines with similar qualification criteria, but there are also no minimum revenue requirements to earn or keep your status.
We hope you’ll continue enjoying your benefits or sign up today to join the many travel perks!
Alaska Airlines partners with like-minded brands to offer guests products made with care
Care guides us in pursuit of brands that care about people and the planet. They share a meaningful purpose and spark joy simply by focusing on the little things that matter.
Behind every pretzel twist or chocolate covered almond or truffle and even soap in our bathrooms, there’s a meaningful purpose and reason why brands are part of the Alaska experience.
At our core, we are all about taking care of people—from our guests to each other. We care about offering the most genuine care, value and ease in the sky—it’s what sets us apart from other airlines and attracts other like-minded brands to love working with us.
Below are some of the products we carry onboard and in lounges, plus a little more about each of the beautiful humans behind the brands.
We’ve put in time and lots of thought to find brands to work with that care about the same things we do. These companies are risk-takers, problem-solvers, are ethically-minded, thoughtful, kind and believe even the smallest of things—like a pretzel, a scent or an almond—can have a purpose,” said Todd Traynor-Corey, MD Guest Products.
Stellar Snacks
“It’s not just a pretzel, it’s a labor of love.”
The mesmerizing packaging is as creative as the tiny twists inside. Don’t miss artists’ signatures on the corner of every bag!
Founders of a timeless classic, Elisabeth Galvin (she/her) and Gina Galvin (they/them), along with their brilliant team, bake their pretzels from scratch daily in Carson City, Nevada. From hand-picked seasonings to sustainably harvested flours, they take pride in using natural ingredients to make their ambitious flavors.
Stellar Snacks believes that something as small as a pretzel can have a purpose. You’ll notice onboard, each bag of Stellar Snacks is a little work of art. They intentionally partner with budding artists to bring its packaging to life. Artists are given a platform to showcase their talents.
“It’s one of the ways we love to give back and highlight a talented person that may otherwise go unseen,” says Gina.
We believe in creating Stellar experiences for all—so we partner with brands who also want to make a difference,” says Gina. “For us, the bottom line is the value we bring to people and the planet, so you have to be courageous, inclusive, sustainable and most of all, kind. After one flight with Alaska, it’s no mystery why it is the Most Caring Airline, and we know that care branches into so many aspects of the business—in-flight and behind the scenes.”
Antica Farmacista brings transportive, artfully composed fragrances to familiar spaces—like our aircraft and in our Lounges.
Founded nearly 20 years ago in Seattle by two dear friends, Susanne Pruitt (she/her) and Shelley Callaghan (she/her), Antica’s decadent fragrances are meant to make you feel good and transport you to a fond memory or feeling while also nodding to a time-honored craft.
Every scent is infused with care and a lot of thought, so that each aroma reminds you of a time or place,” says Shelley. “For me, some take me back to my childhood or moments with my grandfather. We want [people to enjoy the spaces they’re in—whether it’s on an airplane, stepping into a hotel or your living room—like memories, fragrance should be familiar, lasting and draws you in.”
As a breast cancer survivor and mother of two boys, Susanne is no stranger to seeking out adventure and lives every day to the fullest. For her, it’s all in the details.
“Being able to run a business with your best friend is always an adventure and even more meaningful because we care so much about the little things and making people feel a certain way,” she said.
“Ocean Citron,” was specially created by Antica to give our guests cool blue ocean vibes with notes of California lemon, soft jasmine, lavender, green tea, among others.
Deeply committed to making fragrance an extension of one’s style and environment, Shelley says they work with brands to master what their fragrance could be. Their collection currently has over 20 alluring fragrances, including Alaska’s very own scent, called “Ocean Citron.”
The refreshing ocean-inspired products can be found in all our aircraft lavatories (sanitizer if you’re traveling on a Q400) and in our Lounges where you can enjoy its pairing lotion.
SkinnyDipped
They don’t sugar coat…they Skinny Dip!
By the end of a bittersweet summer in 2012—after the passing of a dear friend of theirs— Breezy and her mom, Val, hit the reset button and knew they wanted to spend more time together. So, they started SkinnyDipped in Val’s kitchen in Seattle.
Together, with the help of Breezy’s two best friends, they began hand-dipping almonds at their kitchen table. After a lot of testing (and tasting), they perfected and launched SkinnyDipped’s OG Dark Chocolate Cocoa Almonds, which is one of our sweet & salty snacks onboard.
Loaded with plant protein and made without any artificial ingredients, SkinnyDipped products are made with the utmost care—the almonds you get onboard are even sourced from certified bee-friendly farms.
Kindness is infused into everything we create and bake,” says Breezy. “If we wouldn’t put it on our table for our friends and family, then we wouldn’t put it under SkinnyDipped. It simply comes down to doing the right thing, and we very consciously have tried to be the cleanest, best, most delicious, healthiest product we can be for all.”
“Alaska was always kind of like a dream partner for us. Featuring our snack onboard made us feel like hometown heroes, just that embrace of local and showing support of the community was huge,” said Val. “The fact that Alaska was willing to pick us up and believe in us at a fairly early stage in our business was super heartwarming and still to this day is a very special relationship to us.”
As a mother/daughter-founded company, Val and Breezy are committed to raising up and supporting women and the children they love in both their local communities and around the globe. That’s why they launched their give-back program, Brick by Brick, to help support women, build schools and recycle (literal) TONS of plastic in West Africa, where the majority of the world’s cacao is grown.
SkinnyDipped snacks onboard Alaska flights are made from whole roasted almonds dipped in a thin layer of dark chocolate with a kiss of maple sugar and sea salt and a dusting of cocoa; the thin chocolate layer means you get more nut than chocolate (and less sugar) in every bite.
Seattle Chocolate
Simply put, we’re here to lift you up
Like Alaska, Seattle Chocolate is endlessly inspired to evolve, to be better to each other and the planet and to find a way to leave the world kinder (and more delicious & fly) than we found it.
As a woman-owned company, they know that magic happens when everyone has a voice. “It makes us bolder, pushes us to take risks, and honestly, it’s just a lot of fun,” says Jean Thompson, owner and CEO of Seattle Chocolate since 2002.
Jean Thompson, Seattle Chocolate owner and CEO (right) – and Alaska MVP Gold member – says the company’s values and products reflect her own passions and tastes. Read more.
Seattle Chocolate’s mission has always been to make the world brighter through chocolate, especially when it comes to empowering girls and women. That’s why 10% of net profits from every purchase from their collection supports Girls Inc.
Learn more about their impact and join us in cheering on the next generation of movers, shakers, and change-makers!
Fun fact: Seattle Chocolate jcoco-branded bars are also thank-you gifts for Mileage Plan MVP Gold members.
Like many of the brands we team up with, including the ones featured today, each strives to leave the world a happier, healthier and better place to be—and we couldn’t be more onboard with that kind of care.
Stay tuned for more behind the brands you’ll find with Alaska!
Are you interested in being a supplier for Alaska Airlines? Check out our refreshed supplier site (www.alaskaair.com/suppliers) to register your company and be added to our database, learn about our Supplier Diversity program, access invoicing instructions and more.
Alaska Airlines supports Juneteenth Foundation ‘because when values align, great opportunities can take flight’
Our values guide everything we do, and it’s the reason Alaska supports the Juneteenth Foundation.
Last year, like many companies, we recognized Juneteenth for the first time—a significant milestone in American history that reminds us to reflect on our country’s past and consider how we can show up and build a more equitable future for all, together.
Juneteenth is not just a Black holiday, it’s an American holiday that gives us all an opportunity to show how far we’ve come and how much more work we still have to do so everyone has the same opportunity,” said James Thomas, director of diversity, equity and inclusion. “We’re excited to partner with the Juneteenth Foundation because when values align, great opportunities can take flight.”
This year, The Juneteenth Foundation hosted The Freedom Festival in Washington D.C., one of the largest Juneteenth week-long celebrations in America, where Alaska employees, students attending HBCUs, community leaders, celebrities and Fortune 500 brands came together to celebrate some of the world’s biggest names in Black culture, philanthropy, entertainment and music.
As the official airline partner of the Juneteenth Foundation celebration in Washington D.C, we’re honored to represent the aviation community and contribute to a great cause. We also left a special surprise under people’s seats (roundtrip tickets) and can’t wait to see them in the skies soon.
At Alaska, we believe education is the great equalizer and a critical component on the path to equity.
Last year, we joined the HBCU Partnership Challenge to promote greater engagement and support between private companies like ours and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). We know we still have work to do, but we also recognize the impact we can have when we use our voice to advance our values.
We have a responsibility to use our platform and voice to encourage conversations around the need for greater diversity, equity and inclusion within our industry and beyond,” says CEO Ben Minicucci, who was recently elected to UNCF’s Board of Directors. “We are inspired and guided by our value to do the right thing and know we’re stronger when everyone has equal opportunity and a seat at the table.”
We’ve been a proud partner with UNCF for over 15 years, and last year committed to donating another 10 million miles to fly students to college tours at HBCUs around the country.
Over the weekend, at the Juneteenth celebration in Washington D.C., 25 students were awarded scholarships toward their education from the Juneteenth Foundation, Alaska Airlines and other partners. Citerra Johnson was one of several who could attend. As a nursing student going into her senior year at Coppin State University, she says she was so excited to be receiving one of the grants.
Five of the scholarship recipients were able to attend the Juneteenth Foundation Honors ceremony.
The Juneteenth scholarship means a lot to me, I was looking for scholarships and grants through my school and saw this and decided to apply because it will really help ease some of the burden going into my last year,” Johnson said.
Alaska Airlines is committed to DEI
Last February, we announced our 2025 diversity, equity and inclusion goals and committed to creating a more inclusive workforce. Since then, we’ve shared updates on what’s underway to meet our goals. This work is core to our values and critical to our strategic growth plan, and we’re pleased to share we’re making progress. Learn more.
Through career panels, events, philanthropic giving, and community partnerships, as of June 2022, we’ve created career pathways for more than 15,000 young people.
From CSA to VP: Celley Buchanan elected vice president of airport operations and customer service at Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines’ board of directors has elected Celley Buchanan vice president of airport operations and customer service. In this role she is responsible for all aspects of the airline’s airport operations across its broad network, excluding Seattle.
Buchanan is a 23-year veteran of Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air. She started her career as a customer service agent in Los Angeles (LAX) and served there for 13 years, progressing into leadership of all aspects of Alaska’s operation, including serving as LAX general manager.
She then moved to Horizon Air as director of ground operations for two years, before moving back to Alaska as director of operations support services. She has been in her current role, managing director of airport operations support for Alaska since 2020, where she set the long term strategy for ground support equipment, business partner performance, cabin cleaning, deicing and divisional safety, among other programs.
Celley Buchanan
Buchanan’s leadership helped to establish the airline’s Next-Level Care program at the start of the pandemic, which introduced more than 100 safety policies and procedures designed to ensure the safety of our guests and employees.
Celley is a people leader with a deep understanding of our operation and what makes us tick,” said Wayne Newton, senior vice president of airport operations and customer service at Alaska Airlines and chairman of McGee Air Services board of directors. “Her tenacity and skill working across the organization will raise our airports teams to even higher levels of performance, safety and empowerment.”
Buchanan is a graduate of the University of Washington’s Foster School of Business Executive MBA program. Connect with her on LinkedIn.
Love is – quite literally – in the air at Alaska Airlines
Grab a tissue! This love story may bring tears to your eyes and definitely make your heart skip a beat.
Yesterday, Skywest Flight Attendant Veronica flew with her girlfriend (and newly hired Alaska pilot!) Alejandra on our special Pride delight flight from San Francisco to Los Angeles. Skywest is one of Alaska’s regional airline partners in the Pacific Northwest.
They first met while flying Alaska Airlines two years ago.
“I was just like, ‘Oh, wow, this girl, she’s perfect,’” Veronica said.
Recently, she shared her idea for a mid-air marriage proposal with the team and how the couple has always wanted to fly on our “Fly With Pride” plane—of course, we were onboard and going to make this happen!
On Wednesday afternoon, Veronica told Alejandra to pack her bags for a quick trip from SFO to LAX. Halfway through the flight, in true flight-attendant fashion, Veronica used the PA system to propose to Alejandra (in English and Spanish!).
But there’s a plot twist!
We had no idea Alejandra was also planning to propose to Veronica that same day.
When the couple deplaned, Alejandra surprised all of us by popping the question to Veronica at the gate, and a double proposal celebration at LAX ensued!
It’s awesome, I feel very, very loved today,” said Alejandra. “Alaska has always been my number one forever. I can definitely tell how much they care.”
Fly with Pride on Alaska Airlines
There are many ways you can fly with Pride this year. Whether it’s jet setting to a parade or taking a trip to visit loved ones, we have you covered to celebrate pride onboard.
We’re also celebrating the first anniversary of our Pride aircraft in Alaska Airlines’ network.
I’ve always appreciated Alaska; how deeply involved they are in the LGBTQ+ community,” Veronica said. “All the love and support is just super overwhelming and amazing.”
Food & Beverage
Treat yourself at 30,000 feet (for those 21+) with our new INTRINSIC wine in First Class. The fruity, spicy and silky-smooth Washington State Cabernet Sauvignon is not only delicious but also proudly supports GLAAD and the LGBTQ+ community.
Movies & TV Shows
During your flight, don’t miss our dedicated collection of LGBTQ+ films and TV shows on board, such as RuPaul’s Drag Race, Love Simon, Transfinite, The Birdcage and more. Connect to our Wi-Fi network on your device to watch for free and visit AlaskaWiFi.com to browse our extensive library.
Music
Listen closely as you board our plane and you might hear songs from LGBTQ+ artists, including Torii Wolf, Sarah, the Illstrumentalist, Low Girl and more. We love setting the tone for a great flight!
Parades
Want to celebrate Pride with us? Alaska will be sponsoring parades throughout the year:
Portland, June 19
San Francisco, June 26
Seattle, June 26
San Diego, July 16
Boise, Sept. 9-11
Honolulu, Oct. 15
Palm Springs, Nov. 4-6
At Alaska, we are proudly committed to the communities we serve. We care deeply about celebrating diversity, creating a culture of inclusion and belonging, and fighting for equality in the workplace and around the globe to help create a more equitable society.
As longtime supporters of the LGBTQ+ community through public policy advocacy and corporate giving, we continue to explore ways to foster an inclusive work environment and work closely with Alaska’s Pride Crew (formerly known as GLOBE), our LGBTQ+ business resource group and employees to create meaningful change for our colleagues, guests and partners.
Happy Pride month!
Hello there, Cleveland! Hey, Miami! Alaska Airlines now flies to two new destinations
We’ve also added new nonstop routes that connect Boise to Idaho Falls and Las Vegas;new nonstop flight between Anchorage and Salt Lake City starts service this weekend
With the official start of summer just days away, Alaska Airlines is once again expanding our horizons with the launch of five new routes this week as many of us are eager for fun in the sun in different places.
We’re now flying to two new cities: Cleveland and Miami with daily nonstop service from our hometown hub in Seattle. Plus, we keep growing in Boise with new nonstops to both Idaho Falls and Las Vegas. And we have a new nonstop flight between Anchorage and Salt Lake City.
Northeast Ohio, South Florida, southern Idaho – we’re flying new routes and heading to new destinations where our guests want to go,” said Brett Catlin, vice president of network and alliances at Alaska Airlines. “We’re seeing strong tickets sales for all our new nonstops. That’s another indication that so many of us are ready to get out and go places.”
Tickets for all flights are available for purchase on alaskaair.com.
We begin flying between Seattle and Cleveland today. This summer, we’re the only airline connecting the vibrant city in Northeast Ohio with nonstop service to the Pacific Northwest. Cleveland becomes the third city we’ll serve in the Buckeye State with daily nonstops to Seattle joining Columbus and Cincinnati.
“We are truly excited to welcome Alaska Airlines to the Cleveland Market,” said Robert Kennedy, Director of Airports, Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. “It’s great to see this exceptional air service to Seattle that will connect Clevelander’s to West Coast cities, Hawaii, western Canada and Alaska.”
We’re also launching today our new daily nonstop flight between Seattle and Miami. The popular South Florida vacation spot becomes our 100th nonstop destination from Seattle – a cultural hub for travelers around the world with its incredible nightlife, art, music, architecture and food. Since 2012, we’ve provided nonstop service between Seattle and Fort Lauderdale, just to the north of Miami.
We proudly welcome Alaska Airlines back to Miami International Airport for the first time in 10 years,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “Daily flights to the Pacific Northwest and beyond will give our residents more travel options, especially to the beautiful state of Alaska. I also commend Alaska Airlines for being included in TIME Magazine’s list of the 100 Most Influential Companies of 2022 for its work in sustainability, one of my highest priorities for Miami-Dade County.”
In Boise, we keep growing with a pair of new flights we know our guests have been eager to see. Starting today, we now offer daily nonstop service to both Idaho Falls and Las Vegas from the Idaho capital city. With these additional routes, we’ll fly an average of 31 daily departures from Boise to 15 destinations – all nonstop.
Our flight between Idaho Falls and Boise will offer an easier, more convenient way to travel for business and leisure. The flight times work out well for a day trip from Idaho Falls to Boise: a mid-morning departure and then a return flight in the early evening. The added route joins our existing flights from the Spokane/Coeur d’Alene and Pullman/Moscow areas to link all key population centers across the state to Boise.
“We are thrilled this moment has become a reality for our great community,” said Idaho Falls Mayor Rebecca Casper. “Providing this nonstop flight to Boise opens up greater economic opportunities through the only intrastate commercial airline service.”
Starting June 18, we’ll connect two summertime spots that are famous for outdoor adventures: Anchorage and Salt Lake City. We’ll fly nonstop every week. This summer, we’ll offer a wide variety of 22 nonstop destinations from Anchorage.
We can all agree getting to a destination safely is the most important thing during a travel day, but getting there in the easiest way possible is also great. Cue, Alaska’s mobile app.
Our app is the perfect travel companion from the day you start shopping for flights, all the way through to the moment you arrive at your destination. You can use it to plan your trip, skip the lines and get your digital boarding pass right at your finger tips.
Download the Alaska Airlines app for iPhone, Android, or Windows Phone before your next flight (you’ll be glad you did!). ✈️
Here are some of the reasons to go mobile next time you fly with us:
1. Hassle-free check-in
The app makes it easy to check in 1 to 24 hours prior to your scheduled departure.
Simply add your reservation using your flight confirmation number and name—and follow the steps until it says you’re checked in!
Pro tip: Move faster through airport security lines by applying for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry—simply add your known traveler number or redress number during the check-in process.
2. Mobile boarding pass
Once you’re checked in, it should take you to your mobile boarding pass—which also helps you fly more sustainably (no paper = happy trees).
Pro tip: The app allows you to scan one boarding pass for each family or for groups on the same reservation.
3. Pre-order meals
Enjoy fresh ingredients inspired by the West Coast, from snacks to freshly prepared meals, by pre-ordering your favorites ahead your flight.
Pro tip: Meal orders are open 14 days before departure. In case you missed it: Mileage Plan members can store a method of payment in their Mileage Plan account for touch-free inflight purchases, including food and beverages. Join/Sign in Mileage Plan
Using the app, you can pay for any applicable fees for checked baggage during the check-in process.
Pro tip:Baggage discounts apply for select guests, including Alaska Airlines credit card holders, Elite level Mileage Plan members, and US military personnel.
Skip the line! Print your bag tags at one of our kiosks in the lobby using your mobile boarding pass. Once the tag prints, you can tag/drop your bag at our bag drop area.
You can also print your bag tags at home, using our self-tag feature. When traveling from an eligible airport, you can print bag tags at home using self-tag online, or once you arrive at the airport at one of our self-tag kiosks. Then look for our designated baggage drop areas, and you’ll be quickly on your way.
How it self-tagging works:
Book your trip on our mobile app or at alaskaair.com.
Follow instructions in your pre-trip email to request a bag tag holder in advance by mail or pick up a holder in person at the airport.
Check in online up to 24 hours before your flight and follow the instructions to print a bag tag at home.
Insert your printed bag tag into the tag pouch.
At the airport, follow signs for “Bag Drop.”
Show the agent your boarding pass, identification and drop off your bags.
5. Booking tickets
Book your next flight or find the cheapest fare on the fly on our app.
Before your trip: – Check in and get your mobile boarding pass – Select and change your seats – Prepay for checked baggage
During your trip: – Check your flight status – Change your reservation – Get boarding notices and other travel updates – Print your own bag tags – View and manage your travel receipts – Track your Mileage Plan™ balance
Alaska Airlines names new 25-year airline veteran to lead inflight team
Alaska Airlines’ board of directors named Matt Prainito vice president of inflight, as part of the airline’s goal to bring together its frontline operation and provide a foundation for growth. Prainito will lead strategy and operations for Alaska’s flight attendants who, on every flight, every day, ensure that guests’ journeys are safe and remarkable with genuine, caring service.
A 25-year veteran of the airline, Prainito previously served as vice president of airport and inflight operations at Horizon Air, where he helped the airline return to stability following the pandemic, restoring operations and engaging employees.
Matt is highly regarded by those he has led for his collaborative, hands-on approach to problem solving and continuous improvement,” said Constance von Muehlen, executive vice president and chief operating officer for Alaska Airlines. “He is laser focused on our guests and the stability of our operation, while at the same time he puts employees first and is always looking for new ways to connect with them, visiting airports, on flights or on Instagram.”
Prainito started with Alaska in 1997 as a customer service agent in Los Angeles before stepping into airport manager roles in Burbank, Ontario and LAX. He served as regional manager, director of airport operations and managing director of airport operations for the state of Alaska, Hawaii and the Pacific Northwest. He was promoted vice president at Horizon Air in 2019 and led the regional carrier through a period of great challenge during the pandemic.
In 2012, Prainito received the Alaska Airlines Leadership Award, based on his frontline experience, unparalleled knowledge of customer service strategies, and his unwavering commitment to guests and employees.
Prainito has a bachelor’s in business administration and management from Grand Canyon University and a private pilot’s license. Connect with Prainito on LinkedIn.
Celebrating Flight Attendants’ 50 years in the skies for Alaska Airlines
Carole, Denise, Vicky and Linda celebrate over 50 years in the sky
Today is International Flight Attendant Day—a day where we collectively tip our hats to our flight attendants with awe and appreciation for all that you do, every flight, every day to ensure safety and care for our guests. And what better way to honor our inflight team than to celebrate four incredible women who have each spent over 50 years in the skies for Alaska Airlines. Here’s their story.
It was 1967—the year of the mini skirt, gas was 33 cents a gallon, McDonalds introduced the Big Mac, Paul Newman was the national hunk and Carole joined the company as a flight attendant.
Having answered an ad, Carole showed up at the Swept Wing Inn, a motel near Sea-Tac, for what at the time was the largest class ever of new flight attendants: 12. The aircraft they were training on was the Boeing 727. Alaska had just acquired it. Sleek, fast, Carole called it the “Cadillac of the skies.”
Five years later, in 1972, three other trailblazers joined the company — Denise, Vicky and Linda. They were to begin a grand adventure, flying on dozens of different aircraft, wearing multiple new uniforms (all the latest fashion) and inaugurating hundreds of new cities during their careers at Alaska.
It was so grand that when Carole got her 55-year pin this month, and Denise, Vicky and Linda their 50-year pins, they wondered how time had flown so fast. Reaching over 50 years of service is something very few employees at Alaska Airlines have ever done. Carole is the longest-serving flight attendant in company history. She’s been with the airline for over half of our 90 years.
Carole, Denise, Vicky and Linda truly are awe inspiring. They define excellence,” said Constance von Muehlen, COO. “They set the high standards of safety and care we follow today, and we are incredibly thankful and grateful for them, as they personify the Alaska spirit.”
Below, they share some of their favorite memories:
Carole – 55 Year Flight Attendant
Flight Attendant Carole, based in Seattle.
Most memorable flights: Working our Ashland charters in Elizabethan costumes, flying to Russia and offering treats for the local children and her favorite—the Fantasy Flights, bringing holiday cheer to underprivileged children.
Staying in a trailer in Fairbanks: As a low-budget option, Carole and fellow crew members overnighted in trailers in Fairbanks. There was a pilot trailer and a flight attendant trailer. “Sometimes the water wasn’t good, due to the permafrost, but it was cozy.”
Leaders over the years: Carole recalls Charlie Willis being kind-hearted but “not a very good businessman,” Bruce Kennedy and Ron Cosgrave, “saved the company.“ And Brad Tilden, who volunteered to help her collect trash on a Seahawks charter flight, as being kind. “Here we were on a VIP flight and our CEO is helping me pick up garbage.”
Carole with then CEO Brad Tilden picking up trash
What she’s grateful for: So many of her coworkers, including those from her class that have since retired, Judy B., Joanie S., Lynn O…. the list goes on. “How lucky I have been to work with so many wonderful people.”
Carole in her Golden Nugget era uniform
Her fav destination: Sitka where, “it’s just magical. The people are just so incredibly friendly. It’s like stepping back in time.”
Denise – 50 Year Flight Attendant
Early years: She started as a customer service agent, and then moved to flight attendant.
Fight Attendant Denise, based in Seattle.
Most vivid memory: Working the Fantasy Flights in Spokane during the holiday season. “It’s a privilege to see the unconditional love given to these children in housing transition. A blessing for sure.”
She’s thankful for: “When I joined the Alaska Family in 1972, those who were already here were my teachers, they set the standards. Those who have joined our family since continue to teach, bring joy and memories every day. “
Fav place to fly: Her heart is in the state of Alaska. Fairbanks and Anchorage are her favorite places to visit. After that? The Midwest and Honolulu.
Linda – 50 Year Flight Attendant
What she loves about her job: The people!
Anyone special? Too many to name. “Alaska Airlines is the people you work with and the friends you make. It is the reason I am still doing the job after 50 years!”
Flight Attendant Linda, based in Seattle.
Fav place to fly? Puerto Vallarta!
Of all the uniforms over the years, her favorites? “Any of them when I was young!”
Vicky – 50 Year Flight Attendant
Best flight ever: Being part of an Eclipse flight in conjunction with Pacific Science Center. “The views were amazing, especially from the flight deck, and I still have my can of ‘dark’ that we gave out onboard.”
Flight Attendant Vicky, based in Seattle.
Least favorite uniform over the years: Hot pants with go-go boots. (Yes, they wore ’em!)
Advice she’d give new flight attendants today: “If a guest is giving you a bad time, remember that the flight will be over soon. Someone has to live with that person all the time!”
She loves: The travel benefits. “My parents were able to see the Arctic and experience the ‘Arctic Bump’ and my whole family was able to travel.”
