Stuck in the Passport Backlog? Plan Your World-Class Hawaiʻi Vacation with Alaska Airlines: Here’s Why!

July 20, 2023
Guest Experience
Alaska Airlines
5 min read

With extremely long wait times for a new U.S. passport, we’ve got the best vacation for you without ever having to leave the country—and the reasons why we’re the best airline to get you there.

Looking for seismic activity? Head to the Island of Hawaiʻi.

Are volcanoes on the brain? Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park offers an up close and personal look into how the archipelago was created. Guests can even visit the park after dark to see the glow of flowing lava. Just remember to be a mindful traveler and mālama (to care for) the land and nature while you’re there.

Book a trip to Kona, Hawaiʻi now!

Looking for waves? Surf the North Shore of O‘ahu.

Pack your surfboard and head to O‘ahu’s famous North Shore to catch some waves. Less than an hour drive from Honolulu, the North Shore of O‘ahu offers world class surf breaks – whether you’re on the board or watching from the beach.

Book a trip to Honolulu, O‘ahu now!

Looking for a beach? Stroll the shores of Maui.

No matter if you’re in the market for a romantic stroll, sandcastle building, snorkeling some reefs or exploring unique black sand beaches, Maui has dozens of beaches to choose from. Just imagine enjoying some poke while you watch whales coming and going off the shore.

Book a trip to Kahului, Maui now!

Looking for a forest adventure? Explore the wilds of Kaua‘i.

Ever have the desire to feel like you’re in Jurassic Park (without the dinosaurs)? Kaua‘i isn’t called the Garden Isle for nothing – with stunning canyons and waterfalls and forests to zip through, there’s something for every adventure seeker.

Book a trip to Līhu‘e, Kaua‘i now!

Why you should choose Alaska to get you to Hawaiʻi:

We’re the go-to airline for those looking for affordable flying options, premium experiences, and the best value to Hawaiʻi. Our vast network allows flyers to reach the beautiful islands of O‘ahu, Maui, Kaua‘i, and the Island of Hawaiʻi from almost anywhere along the West Coast and beyond including Anchorage, Los Angeles, Portland, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose, and Seattle and Paine Field (Everett).

All our aircraft serving Hawai‘i are equipped with streaming-fast satellite Wi-Fi available for the entire flight for only $8, with coverage over the Pacific Ocean — the only airline fleet that offers streaming-fast coverage to the Islands on every flight. And stay connected to those on the ground with free inflight texting.

With power outlets at every seat on our aircraft, you can enjoy 800+ free movies and TV shows that can be streamed right to your own devices during the flight. Our extensive library also includes dedicated Hawaiʻi content with travel tips and cultural programming.

The option to pre-order your inflight meal is available online or via our mobile app up to 20 hours prior to your flight. Reserve that cheese plate!

Our First Class offers complimentary hot meals based on a seasonal menu with a range of fresh, bright West Coast-inspired flavors and premium beverages. Our expanded First Class menu has up to five options on every flight to Hawaiʻi, macadamia nuts and Mimosas infused with passionfruit, orange, and guava. Flyers in Premium Class can also take advantage of complimentary cocktails, hand-selected wines and local beers.

Fresh food is available for purchase on every flight in our Main Cabin, with up to five choices, including our guest-favorite Tillamook Cheeseburger (back by popular demand) and a Bibimbab Korean Rice Bowl. Plus, picnic packs and a kids sandwich and exclusively to/from Hawaiʻi.

First Class and Premium Class guests enjoy early boarding and the most generous legroom of all domestic carriers.

You can save your seat reservations in advance to ensure you stay close to your loved ones the entire flight. When you fly with Alaska Airlines, we guarantee your family sits together. And we don’t charge you for it.

We also understand that your plans may change for a variety of reasons, and we want you to be able to change your reservation hassle free. That’s why we have NO change fees for tickets purchased or redeemed on alaskaair.com (on any route within our network + Main Cabin and First Class fares). Please note that a fare difference may apply if the rescheduled flight exceeds the value of the original ticket price.

Among the most popular benefits of the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® card is the annual Companion Fare™. This is a discounted fare that can be used on just about any Alaska flight. Cardholders also enjoy a free checked bag for themselves and up to six other passengers (so a total of seven) in their reservation, triple miles on Alaska purchases, and one mile for every dollar spent on everyday purchases. Sign up today for special offers!

You can bring home a box of (properly packaged) pineapples. For FREE on Alaska Airlines. But leave the lava rocks where you found them. Trust us on this one.

You can also take a surfboard or paddleboard case with up to two boards inside for the same price as a normal piece of checked luggage + other sporting for just $30 for the first checked item, which makes flying Alaska one of the most budget-friendly ways to travel with your surfboard.

Alaska Airlines continues expansion of California network with new nonstop service between Burbank and San Francisco

July 20, 2023
Destinations
Alaska Airlines
2 min read

Alaska Airlines, the carrier with the most nonstop destinations on the West Coast, is expanding its network in California with the launch of a new year-round route from Hollywood Burbank Airport to San Francisco International Airport.

Alaska will offer three peak-daily flights from Burbank to SFO when service begins Dec. 14.

As the only West Coast-based airline, we’re focused on growing a stronger network for our California based guests – within California and beyond,” said Neil Thwaites, Alaska Airlines’ regional vice-president, California. “We’re excited to give people more ways to connect nonstop between Southern and Northern California with the launch of Burbank to SFO – a route we’ve never flown before. This network expansion is part of Alaska’s broader investment in enhancing the guest experience – from seamless check in, to automated bag drop, to renovated lounges and enhanced onboard offe

This summer, Alaska announced a major expansion of its network, including new international destinations to Mexico, the Bahamas and Guatemala. . More than half of the 15 newly added routes will fly from airports Alaska serves in California. All of the routes, including Burbank to San Francisco, will begin in time for the holidays.

“Alaska already connects guests from Burbank to destinations across California and along the Pacific Northwest,” said Frank Miller, Hollywood Burbank Airport executive director. “Thanks to Alaska Airlines, they’ll soon be a short flight to Burbank where they can be at a popular amusement park minutes after they land or hop over to scenic San Francisco and go sightseeing along the coast.”

In California, Alaska operates out of 16 airports throughout the state and offers over 320 peak day flights from our hubs in San Francisco and Los Angeles, as well as our key focus cities of San Diego and San Jose. As the only national airline based on the West Coast, we’ve proudly served our guests throughout California for more than 40 years.

ICYM: Here are our two major announcements of where we’re flying, including new seasonal routes from LAX and SEA to Nassau, Bahamas and year-round routes to Latin America.

Alaska Airlines remains committed to smaller communities: Regional flying coming to several cities this fall

July 20, 2023
Destinations
Alaska Airlines
2 min read

Since the end of the pandemic, the entire airline industry has been affected by unprecedented pilot attrition causing an industry-wide reduction in flying by regional airlines. This has forced many airlines to make tough decisions when it comes to flight frequencies in smaller communities. While some airlines have completely exited smaller regional markets, Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air, Alaska’s long-time regional airline sister company, have maintained at least minimal service to all the communities we serve.

Last fall, Alaska and Horizon temporarily reduced flight frequency in Walla Walla, Wenatchee and Yakima, Washington to single daily roundtrip service.

This November, Alaska Airlines will add an additional flight between Seattle and all three cities, due in part to a partnership between Alaska and community leaders.

“We’ve seen regional air service change over the last few years,” said Kirsten Amrine, VP of revenue management & network planning. “To ensure smaller cities remain connected, we have to think creatively. Small communities are extremely important, so working collaboratively with community leaders is key to ensure we’re able to continue providing the service for which we are known.”

This fall, the airline is also excited to share that it will resume service between Portland and Redmond. Horizon exited the market toward the end of the pandemic due to regional capacity constraints. The regional carrier will operate the route from November 29 through April 10, when the roads between Portland and Redmond can be especially tough to travel due to winter weather.

This route has been the top ask from both communities and will be highly impactful to the business population that commutes between the two cities,” said Kevin Lemme, general manager of airline planning & network performance. “We’re excited that we can resume service on a winter-seasonal basis.”

WHEN: Today, July 20, Horizon Air loaded the resumption of PDX-RDM into its flight schedule. Horizon will re-start service between Portland and Redmond on a Winter-Seasonal basis starting later this year. Also, today, Alaska Airlines loaded an additional flight between SEA-YKM and get EAT/ALW/YKM back up to 2 flights daily this fall.

How Bristol Bay sockeye salmon flies to your table with Alaska Air Cargo

July 19, 2023
Community
Denise Clifton
5 min read

More than half the world’s sockeye salmon comes from Bristol Bay, where multigenerational fishing families are deeply invested in protecting the sustainable catch

For thousands of families who fish Bristol Bay in Southwest Alaska — the world’s largest sockeye fishery — working the family boat is a rite of passage. The adrenaline of the short season, with tens of millions of fish running into the bay’s six rivers over just a few weeks in June and July, gets many rookies hooked on a lifelong love of fishing.

Reba Temple was one of those kids who grew up begging her parents to let her fish with them in the bay.

Her mom and dad started fishing for sockeye in the early 1990s after fishing for years with their parents in Cook Inlet. When Reba was 14, her parents finally brought her aboard the fishing vessel FV Cloud 9.

Reba Temple and her mom, Lynn, fishing in Bristol Bay. (Temple family photo)

“My sister and brother and I were the only deckhands, and we were so excited,” Temple said. Her dad ran the boat, and her mom showed them the ropes. ”From the get-go, it was my favorite time of the year.”

Nels Ure was a little younger when he started working on a boat with his dad, who also began fishing the bay in the early ‘90s.

“When you first start out, it’s chaotic and jarring – and absolutely addicting,” Ure said. “The three to seven days that are the peak, the fish are charging upstream, and you’re going from hundreds of pounds to thousands of pounds in your net. You’re on a 32-foot boat and all of a sudden you’re reeling in 900 to 1,200 feet of net and having to figure out how to get all the fish out of it.”

More than half the world’s sockeye salmon comes from Bristol Bay, where the state, scientists, fishing industry and Alaska Native tribes work together to sustainably manage the fishery.

Last year, a record 82 million sockeye returned to the bay. About 600,000 pounds of the 60 million salmon caught were carried fresh out of the Bristol Bay community of King Salmon (AKN) on Alaska Air Cargo freighters, destined for restaurants and grocery stores — and ultimately, diners’ plates — across the country and around the world.

“I get a little awestruck by the numbers coming in at the peak of the season,” said Shannon Stevens, Alaska Air Cargo sales manager for the state of Alaska.

The new larger freighters will also be certified to fly long hauls over open water, including from remote communities like King Salmon to Seattle.

And while most of the Bristol Bay catch is frozen and carried out by barge, Alaska’s cargo team is investing in more payload to feed the nation’s growing appetite for fresh salmon. By the beginning of next year, we will add two new larger freighters, essentially doubling the fleet’s capacity.

Sustainable for the long haul

In the ongoing effort to manage the fishery sustainably, the state Department of Fish and Game monitors the returns of each river feeding the bay. For the 2023 season, scientists forecast a total return of about 50 million salmon, well above average, with a net catch of 37 million fish.

“The long-term goal isn’t about making the big buck just this year,” said Daniel Schindler, a fishery sciences professor at the University of Washington who has studied the salmon habitat for 27 years. “It’s really been about how do we keep the system going for a long, long time.”

Seattle Chef Renee Erickson sources salmon from sustainable fisheries like Bristol Bay: “We love curing it because it’s so gorgeous.”

Ure, who lives in Naknek with his wife and young daughter, said the residents of the small communities nestled around the bay are invested in its long-term health. “Fishing supports so many economies: welders, all of the gear shops, net hangers, net menders,” said Ure, noting that fishing buoys local businesses year-round. “You have the actual salmon ecosystem, which is phenomenal, but then there’s an economic ecosystem that the salmon sustain as well,” he says.

Both Ure and Temple are looking forward to sharing the rush of the summer salmon run with the next generation.

“It truly is one of the biggest dreams in my life to get to fish with my kids and show them Bristol Bay,” said Temple, who has 2-year-old twins named Bristol and Sam. “I had so much fun spending summers out there with my family.”

Ure said his daughter is already toddling around the family’s fleet and setnet sites.

“I can imagine nothing greater than getting to spend our summers together bonding on the water, solving problems, and catching beautiful salmon,” he said.

¡Hola, Guatemala! Alaska Airlines, LAX’s largest carrier to Latin America, expands to a new destination, Guatemala City

July 13, 2023
Destinations
Alaska Airlines
3 min read

We’ll fly nonstop daily between Los Angeles and Guatemala City starting this December; plus, new flights to coastal getaway Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo from San Diego and Chicago

Alaska Airlines is expanding where we fly in Latin America with the addition of daily, year-round service between Los Angeles and Guatemala City, Guatemala—an all-new destination for us.

We’ve also added new flights from both San Diego and Chicago O’Hare to Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, a popular resort destination along Mexico’s Pacific Coast, as we increase our seasonal leisure routes for wintertime travel. Flights are available for purchase now at alaskaair.com for service that begins this December.

These new flights build on our network strength across Latin America. From our hub in Los Angeles, we have the most flights to the most destinations across Latin America of any carrier – which includes up to 18 daily nonstops this winter to 12 cities throughout the region.

“As the fifth largest carrier in the U.S., we’re a growing airline that’s expanding to more international destinations. Guatemala is a dynamic new country for us and our guests – full of outdoor adventures, history and natural beauty. Our new service will allow families, friends and businesses to better connect between the West Coast and Central America,” said Kirsten Amrine, vice president of revenue management and network planning for Alaska Airlines.

New international service

Route	Start Date	End Date	Frequency	Aircraft
Los Angeles-Guatemala City	Dec. 14	Year-round	Daily	737
San Diego-Zihuatanejo	Dec. 23	April 6, 2024	1x Weekly	737
Chicago- Zihuatanejo	Dec. 23	April 6, 2024	1x Weekly	737

Guatemala City is filled with history and architecture. Outside the capital, there’s plenty to explore. The town of Antigua boasts Baroque-style buildings, farm-to-table restaurants and a showcase of art and textiles. Lake Atitlán, formed inside a massive volcanic crater, is a popular destination with its blue waters, stunning hillsides and quaint villages that ring the lake. For adventure seekers, Guatemala is a nation of volcanoes with several that are accessible for hiking and exploring.

“We’re very excited to welcome Alaska Airlines’ inaugural flight to our country this December,” said Francis Argueta, director general of civil aeronautics of Guatemala. “Guatemala has a lot to offer with its gastronomy, its nature and the beautiful corners of the Mayan world, which will all be a treasure trove of experiences for travelers.”

Our new service to Guatemala City increases our international destinations. We offer flights from LAX and SEA to neighboring Belize, and serve the San Jose and Liberia airports in Costa Rica. This December, we’ll fly from our West Coast gateways to Mexico, Costa Rica, Belize, Guatemala and the Bahamas.

ICYMI: We announced our new seasonal routes from LAX and SEA to Nassau in late June with service beginning on Dec. 15.

We’ve been flying to Mexico for 35 years. It’s a favorite with many of our guests for its culture, cuisine and beaches,” Amrine said. “Our new Saturday nonstops to Zihuatanejo from San Diego and Chicago add to our current Los Angeles and San Francisco service and provide guests with more choices as they plan their winter getaways.”

Maybe Mexico will be calling you this winter. We’ll have four peak-day nonstops to Mexico from San Diego when the new service to Zihuatanejo begins, giving our Southern California flyers even more options when deciding where to catch some rest and relaxation. The weekly flight between Chicago O’Hare and Zihuatanejo is in partnership with ALG Vacations.

Book your next international trip!

Hawaiian Holdings Announces 2023 Second Quarter Conference Call

July 11, 2023
releases
Hawaiian Airlines
2 min read

HONOLULU , July 11, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Hawaiian Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: HA), parent company of Hawaiian Airlines, Inc. ("Hawaiian"), plans to report its second quarter 2023 financial results after the market closes on Tuesday, July 25 , 2023. An investor conference call is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. EDT ( 10:30 a.m. HST ) that day.

The call will be open to all interested investors through a live audio webcast accessible in the Investor Relations section of Hawaiian's website at HawaiianAirlines.com . For those who are not able to listen to the live webcast, the call will be archived for 90 days on Hawaiian's website.

About Hawaiian Airlines
Now in its 94th 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. In 2022, the carrier topped Travel + Leisure's 2022 World's Best list as the No. 1 U.S. airline and was named Hawaiʻi's best employer by Forbes. Hawaiian ^® led all U.S. carriers in on-time performance for 18 consecutive years (2004-2021) as reported by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

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

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

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

View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hawaiian-holdings-announces-2023-second-quarter-conference-call-301874096.html

SOURCE Hawaiian Holdings, Inc.

Alaska Airlines surprises college student who flew to class three times a week so he could avoid paying rent

July 7, 2023
Guest Experience
Maria Cid
3 min read

It’s not every day you commute to class by plane, but that’s exactly what a University of California, Berkeley student did for an entire year to avoid paying rent in the Bay Area.

Bill, the super-commuter, who asked for his full name not to be shared, said he flew on 238 flights—mostly with Alaska Airlines—spent a total of $5,592.66 (including parking and public transportation) compared to the estimated $20,000 he would’ve paid in rent.

He says Alaska’s frequency and Mileage Plan made all the difference.

“With the frequency and flexibility as well as same-day changes, that was the most valuable perk because I could switch to any flights if I wanted to stay longer and hang out with my friends,” said Bill.

“I had a lot of miles from previous mileage runs or credit card sign-up bonuses with Alaska,” he added. When I started planning this commute, I checked, and there were 850,000 miles in my account.”

During his eight-month graduate program, Bill flew with our crew often and spent a great deal of time in our Lounges—so much so our Lounge team in San Francisco knows his go-to order is: “ginger beer.”

“They call me ‘Ginger Beer’ because every time I go, I just ask for ginger beer,” he laughed.

After catching up on homework in the lounge, he’d then take public transportation to downtown Berkeley and catch one more ride on a bus or the school shuttle to attend his 10:10 a.m. class. He’d take an evening flight home and land in LA about 12 hours later. He detailed his commute on a now-viral post: “I survived living in LA and commuting to Cal by plane over the past academic year to save on rent.”

Congrats, Bill—you did it!

Bill earned a graduate degree in May from Cal’s Master of Engineering in Transportation and is now in the national spotlight for his impressive commute from LA to UC Berkeley. He’s been featured in USA Today, KTLA and said he’s lined up to do even more interviews in the coming days.

We got the chance to catch up with Bill to surprise him with a graduation gift from all of us at Alaska to show our appreciation with a unique Flight Pass Pro Subscription service for one year, which will allow him to travel within California, Arizona, Nevada and Utah so he can always lock in the best deal for when he plans his next commute or adventure ✈️

Alaska Airlines Flight Pass Subscriptions

When asked if he’d ever have the chance to do it again, he says he would. And, says he’d choose Alaska over any other airline because of our frequency and Lounges at LAX and SFO—and because we have flight attendants who really care about their customers.

When we found out about Cal student and Alaska super-commuter, Bill, we couldn’t wait to talk to him about his travels and surprise him with a graduation gift of our unique Flight Pass pro subscription for one-year, which will allow him to travel within California, Nevada, Arizona and Utah.

With his new degree and skillset, Bill says he’d love to be part of the Alaska family someday.

“I’m serious; I would like to work with Alaska if I get a chance,” he said.

And we’d love to have him join our team!

Thanks again for flying with us, Bill—see you in the skies soon.

Ready, set, jet! Tips for travel this busy holiday weekend

June 29, 2023
Guest Experience
Alaska Airlines
5 min read

If you’re planning to travel during the Fourth of July holiday, below are some tips to help make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

This weekend, we expect full aircraft, busy airports and lots of guests. If you’re one of thousands of Alaska Airlines guests traveling on our flights this summer, make your trip even better by taking a few key steps to save time during one of the busiest travel seasons of the year and please remember be kind and respectful to those helping you get from point A to point B. We’re here to help you every leg of the way!

Check in:

Use the Alaska Airlines mobile app to check in beginning 24 hours before your flight.

Guests should check-in and get a boarding pass on the Alaska app or online at alaskaair.com before heading to the airport. You can download a mobile boarding pass to your phone, text it to yourself, or even print one before arriving to the airport.

Know when to arrive:

Give yourself plenty of time to get to and through the airport. We recommend arriving at the airport 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours for international.

Heads up: Some of our hub airports—including Seattle—are undergoing construction that may increase congestion. Parking might also be limited.

Pay for bags ahead of time:

Avoid lines at the airport and pay for up to three checked bags in the Alaska mobile app or on alaskaair.com. You may qualify for complimentary bags if you’re an Alaska Airlines credit card holder, U.S. military personnel or have Elite or oneworld Alliance® status. Learn more about our baggage policies.

With new Bag Tag Stations coming to every airport we serve, you’ll be able to quickly pay for and tag your bags and go. **Pro tip:** If you’re flying with just a carry on, skip the lobby and head straight to security with your mobile boarding pass.

Get in touch with us:

If you’re an Alaska Mileage Plan member, set up communication preferences in your account profile. Our Reservations team can easily update you if your flight schedule changes due to something like weather. You can receive notifications through the app, email and text (to request more info, simply text HELP to 252752).

Pre-order meals before your flight:

Reserve your favorite meal on the app or online up to 20 hours before your departure. We’ve filled our flight menu with a range of fresh, bright flavors inspired by the West Coast food scene and serve freshly prepared meals and snacks for breakfast, lunch and dinner—always including a vegetarian option.

Alaska Airlines Inflight Menu

Enroll in a Trusted Traveler program:

Programs like TSA’s Global Entry and Pre-Check provide expedited screening that reduces your time in the security line and comes with a few other perks including allowing children between 13-17 to enter with an enrolled parent. CLEAR members also rarely worry about being late because they’re always at the front of the security line. Mileage Plan members can now enroll for a CLEAR Plus membership at a reduced rate and receive bonus miles. And our hometown airport, SEA, offers a program called Spot Saver to save a spot in the security line.

Get to your gate faster with CLEAR Plus and enjoy exclusive discounts as a Mileage Plan^™ member.

Request special assistance:

If you need special assistance while traveling, you can request it online or call our dedicated accessible services line at 1-800-503-0101 (dial 711 for relay services). Request wheelchair assistance, add a trained service animal to your trip and more.

Download our free mobile app called Fly for All on the App Store and Google Play, designed for those with cognitive and developmental disabilities, first-time flyers, and unaccompanied minors.

Recharge in our Lounges:

Experience unparalleled airport Lounge service in a quiet space to relax and recharge, or get a little work done between flights in Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York – JFK, Portland, or Anchorage to relax before your flight. Lounge members can access the lounge with their digital membership card, available in our mobile app.

Alaska Airlines Lounges

Our well-loved Seattle D Concourse Lounge has reopened after a massive makeover (ICYMI: check it out!).

Stream & text in flight:

Snuggle into your seat and choose from over 800 free movies and TV episodes in our entertainment library. Most aircraft feature our streaming entertainment system, letting you watch free movies and TV shows on your own device. Simply connect to our onboard Wi-Fi network during your flight, and visit AlaskaWiFi.com to see browse our extensive library.

On most flights, you can also purchase our streaming-fast satellite Wi-Fi for just $8. And, enjoy free texting while you fly, by simply connecting to our Wi-Fi.

Earn miles every time you fly:

Make sure your Alaska number is listed with your flight so you can earn miles for every flight you take with Alaska Airlines or any of our partner airlines. Not a member? Join today.

Alaska Airlines’ 2022 sustainability report shares strides forward, key learnings and challenges faced

June 28, 2023
Sustainability
Alaska Airlines
3 min read

Each year, our Care Report provides an opportunity to share progress on our sustainability journey. Since 2009, we’ve shared our goals, what we’re doing to make progress and learnings along the way.

Aviation brings incredible value and opportunity to global communities—connecting us all, across the land, oceans and waterways that sustain us. And we know our ability to deliver reliable performance, remarkable service and value for many years to come depends on integrating care into everything we do—continuously working to steward our impact on our people, communities and environment.

In our 2021 Care Report, we shared ambitious goals for 2025. These include goals for workforce and talent development, culture, community engagement, carbon emissions, waste, water and more. Additionally, we outlined a five-part path to net zero emissions by 2040: operational efficiency, fleet renewal, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), new aircraft technologies and credible carbon removals where needed depending on how fast other technologies advance

In our 2022 report, we share where we’ve made strides and lessons learned. We are also aware of where we face challenges—such as closing the significant gap to enable and scale technologies like SAF which are not currently available at the scope, scale or cost needed to reach our own or our industry’s long-term goals. We’re proud of our progress, which is driven by the teamwork of our employees, and together with strong partners.

This work takes all of us, and we are committed to the path forward, to ensure Alaska is innovating and advancing our industry, creating jobs and connecting communities for a long time to come.

A few highlights from the 2022 report include:

People:

Hired 8,000 new employees, launched the Ascend Pilot Academy, transformed our recruiting pipeline and established multiple programs to connect more people with aviation careers and to make progress toward our goal of diverse representation in leadership.

Held our first all-company Safety Day, a coordinated pause across our operations for teams to talk about what safety means to us personally, and the specific behaviors in each area that keep each other and our guests safe.

Environment:

Continued work to expand supply and use of SAF—including new purchase agreements to expand our use as more supply becomes available, advocacy for public policy to enable market development and establishing a new program for companies who fly with us for business travel to reduce their carbon footprint through SAF, helping to grow this important market for the future.

Expanded use of our AI-enabled route optimization software, Flyways, to more parts of our network, helping us save over 12,000 metric tons of CO2, which is equivalent to 1.3 million gallons of fuel. In 2021, we were the first airline worldwide to adopt this technology to make our flight operations more efficient and sustainable.

Re-started onboard recycling and was the first US airline to deliver plastic-free onboard water service with the addition recyclable paper cups.

Communities:

Welcomed students back to our hangars for Seattle and Portland Aviation Day, and flew students on Our Commitment airplane for learning opportunities and college visits across the country.

Returned to more in-person volunteering, with our employees racking up a total of nearly 30,000 hours with organizations across the country.

The Caribbean is calling! Alaska Airlines adds new flights to the Bahamas

June 27, 2023
Destinations
Alaska Airlines
4 min read

We’ll fly nonstop to Nassau from two of our West Coast hubs starting this December along with all-new service between Las Vegas and both Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta

Your winter travel options just got a bit brighter! We’ve added our first-ever flights to the Bahamas with nonstops from both Los Angeles and Seattle. We’re also increasing our service to Mexico with new routes between Las Vegas and both Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta. All four new international routes begin flying in mid-December.

For a limited time, introductory fares for flights between Los Angeles and Nassau start at $169 one-way and flights between Seattle and Nassau start at $199 one-way. Flights from Las Vegas to Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta start at $139 one-way. Tickets are available for purchase now at alaskaair.com.

There’s a continuing strong demand by travelers who want to venture to leisure destinations – whether it’s a short plane flight along the West Coast or heading to a distant international location. Many of our guests are already planning ahead and taking the time now to book vacations for early next year. Also, with more 737-9 aircraft entering our fleet, we have planes that offer a greater range for us to fly longer distances, such as Seattle to Nassau.

“We’re excited to add a ‘new dot’ to our route map and believe our guests will appreciate the convenience of nonstop service to the Bahamas this winter,” said Kirsten Amrine, vice president of revenue management and network planning for Alaska Airlines. “Whether our guests choose to stay in Nassau, or venture to the outer islands, the pristine beaches and crystal clear waters of the Bahamas await.”

New international service

Route	Start Date	End Date	Frequency	Aircraft
Los Angeles-Nassau	Dec. 15	April 9, 2024	4x weekly	737
Seattle-Nassau	Dec. 15	April 9, 2024	3x weekly	737
Las Vegas-Cabo San Lucas	Dec. 15	April 10, 2024	4x weekly	E175
Las Vegas-Puerto Vallarta	Dec. 14	April 9, 2024	4x weekly	E175

Los Angeles & Seattle to the Bahamas

Our new flights to the Bahamas are a first for us to the Caribbean nation. From two of our key West Coast hubs – Los Angeles and Seattle – we’ll fly our guests nonstop to the popular vacation destination off the coast of South Florida. Our convenient morning departures from both Los Angeles and Seattle allow our guests to arrive in Nassau in the late afternoon.

Our new service to Nassau will become our 101^st nonstop destination from our hometown airport in Seattle.

“SEA welcomes another dynamic, sunny winter destination – the first time Nassau has been served with nonstop service from Seattle,” said Lance Lyttle, managing director at SEA Airport. “Alaska Airlines is providing that opportunity for fun and sun to go with destinations from Mexico to Hawaii – choices Seattle travelers will surely be happy to have!”

“We are thrilled to share in the anticipation of Alaska Airlines’ inaugural flight to the pristine shores of the Bahamas, opening a treasure trove of experiences for travellers,” said Bahamas Prime Minister Hon. Philip E. Davis. “For those looking to escape to our enchanting white beaches, turquoise waters and vibrant culture, this new connection provides an effortless path. We can’t wait to extend our warm Bahamian welcome to the visitors from afar, ushering in a new chapter of tourism and cultural exchange. We welcome and look forward to this new partnership.”

Las Vegas to Mexico

Las Vegas becomes a new Alaska gateway to two of Mexico’s most popular destinations from the West Coast: Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta.

Both flights depart Las Vegas late in the morning for a midday arrival. Our new seasonal flight between San Luis Obispo and Las Vegas, which also begins in mid-December, will offer an easy connection to Mexico for our guests along California’s Central Coast.

Book your next international getaway!

Alaska Airlines completes 5G modifications ahead of FAA deadline

June 27, 2023
Company
Alaska Airlines
4 min read

June 27, 2023

5G modifications complete ahead of FAA deadline

We’re proud to share that we have completed the modifications to upgrade radio altimeters on all active Alaska and Horizon aircraft in June, ahead of the FAA’s July 1 deadline. It’s an important safety milestone for us and critical to the reliability of our summer operations.

Concerns about 5G’s potential interference with airplane altimeters led to operational disruptions at several airlines last year, including Alaska and Horizon. Following this, the FAA created new rules that prohibit landings in low visibility conditions for aircraft that do not have updated altimeters and will take effect on July 1. Radio altimeters are crucial for landing in adverse weather conditions. Wireless telecommunications carriers agreed to delay the use of C-band signals near major airports, while airlines worked to retrofit aircraft.

“The work to get all aircraft modified with the upgraded radio altimeters was an impressive joint effort between Maintenance & Engineering, Flight Operations, and many others,” said Bret Peyton, managing director of Standards, Fleet & Ops Control, “Thank you to these teams for their attention to safety and speed at which they worked.”

Don Wright, vice president of Maintenance and Engineering, echoed similar sentiment, “The 5G radio altimeter retrofit program was well-coordinated, leading to its flawless execution. It was a total team effort that involved maintenance & engineering, material control, and planning, as well as our business partners. This is a shining example of our ‘One Team Culture’ in action delivering a key initiative for the company.”

Feb 3, 2022

5G rollout continues to disrupt regional air travel, here’s why

As you may have heard in the news, AT&T and Verizon agreed to limit the use of 5G C-Band signals near major airports. This action was essential to avoiding a catastrophic disruption among travelers, shipping and the global supply chain and the U.S. economy.

While we appreciate the efforts of the telecom industry and government agencies to avert the most significant impacts, the rollout of this new 5G band is still creating disruptions for regional air travel.

In a nutshell, the new 5G C-band, when deployed within a certain distance of an airport, interferes with vital flight technology used to navigate aircraft during challenging weather and low visibility. As a result, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued flight restrictions that limit the ability of some aircraft to land in certain weather conditions.

Since the agreement was reached, Alaska’s Boeing and Airbus aircraft have been cleared for low visibility landings by the FAA. However, some of our regional jets have not yet been cleared at certain airports and are still subject to restrictions on landing/takeoff during low visibility conditions (such as dense fog or winter weather). Until this issue is further analyzed and other solutions are provided this may cause some cancellations, delays and diversions.

Alaska and the aviation industry as a whole has a zero risk mindset and will not fly if there are any concerns with safety. That’s why we have advocated for buffer zones near airports and continue to encourage the telecom industry, FCC and FAA to develop a long-term approach that will allow 5G and aviation to safely co-exist.

To minimize the impact the FAA’s 5G-related restrictions may have on your travel, please follow these tips:  

Always check the status of your flight before leaving for the airport. You can do this online or on the Alaska mobile app.

If your flight is impacted, manage your travel online.  
We are always here to help.  Text 82008 or call 1-800-252-7522 for assistance with your reservation.

We know this situation is frustrating and disruptive to those impacted and we’re asking the government to ensure an effective, safe, reliable and sustainable solution to get all our aircraft back to normal operations.

This post was originally published on Jan. 24, 2022 and updated on Feb. 3, 2022.

Timesaver! Alaska Airlines and CLEAR team up to make travel easier and more secure

June 21, 2023
Guest Experience
Alaska Airlines
3 min read

With CLEAR Plus, move through airport security lines faster; Mileage Plan members can now enroll for a CLEAR Plus membership at a reduced rate and receive bonus miles

Our commitment to care for our guests comes in all forms, including improving their travel day. To help do that, Alaska Airlines is partnering with CLEAR—the secure identity company—to provide friction-free and predictable travel experiences with CLEAR Plus.

With our new partnership, Mileage Plan members can take advantage of a discounted rate for a CLEAR Plus membership and also receive bonus miles for a limited time. This is the first step in the partnership to accelerate the adoption of digital identity and remove friction throughout the travel journey.

CLEAR Plus is an opt-in program that allows its members to travel faster through security at 52 airports nationwide by verifying their identity with their eyes or fingerprint, replacing the need to take out their wallet and driver’s license. After verification, a CLEAR Ambassador escorts members through a dedicated lane and directly to TSA physical security, saving them time waiting in line at the security checkpoint.

“We understand from our guests how important it is for them to have the best possible experience when traveling with us, and part of that is saving time when they’re at the airport,” said Shane Jones, vice president of real estate and business development at Alaska Airlines. “Our frequent flyers are already big fans of CLEAR Plus. With a discounted CLEAR Plus membership available to all of our Mileage Plan members, we believe more of our guests will appreciate this valuable travel benefit.”

All Mileage Plan members can enroll in CLEAR Plus at a discounted rate of $179 a year at clearme.com/alaska. Plus our elite Mileage Plan members – MVP, MVP Gold, MVP Gold 75K and MVP Gold 100K – who enroll will receive 1,500 Mileage Plan bonus miles. Elite Mileage Plan members who renew an existing CLEAR Plus membership and link it to their Mileage Plan account will receive a total of 1,250 miles every year upon renewal.

In addition, to celebrate the launch of the partnership, between now and July 16, 2023, all Mileage Plan members—elite or non-elite—who enroll in a new CLEAR Plus membership will receive 1,000 Mileage Plan bonus miles.

“CLEAR is obsessed with delivering the best customer experience, so we’re excited to provide Alaska Airlines’ Mileage Plan members with the confidence and predictability of CLEAR Plus,” said Kasra Moshkani, executive vice president of operations at CLEAR. “We look forward to expanding our partnership with Alaska to continue unlocking seamless experiences for their frequent flyers from home to gate and beyond.”

CLEAR Plus is available at Alaska’s key hub airports in Seattle, San Francisco and Los Angeles. Mileage Plan members who join CLEAR Plus can add up to three family members or friends to their account for just $70 each. Family members under 18 years old can always join CLEAR members in the CLEAR Lane for free. CLEAR has more than 16 million members.

While CLEAR Plus and TSA PreCheck are independent of each other, many passengers use CLEAR Plus and TSA PreCheck together for the fastest way through airport security.

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Los Angeles & Seattle to the Bahamas

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