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Experts say airplanes are among the safest indoor environments in the world

Is it safe to fly on airplanes during the pandemic? Yes, according to science.

While we understand everyone will travel when they’re ready, we’re pleased to share that a recent expert study has shown the transmission of COVID-19 on airplanes to be nearly non-existent (even when seated next to someone).

Mask-wearers are at near zero risk of being exposed to the virus.

According to the most recent study of aircraft air quality conducted by the United States Department of Defense (DoD), even if every seat is occupied on an aircraft, travelers who are wearing a mask are at 0.003% risk of being exposed to the virus.

The DoD study, which simulated a packed plane using mannequins—both with and without masks seated around the cabin—released 180 million particles into the air (the equivalent of 300 to several thousand coughs) to mimic the amount needed to transmit the infection. The results showed only 0.003% of airborne contaminants reached the breathing zones of those wearing a mask.

The DoD research also concluded it would take at least 54 hours of sitting next to someone with the Coronavirus to be exposed to an infectious dose. Currently, Alaska’s longest nonstop flight is 6 hours and 46 minutes from Boston to San Francisco.

Aircraft air filtration systems help reduce the risk onboard.

As part of Harvard’s Health Aviation Initiative, current research recommends taking a multi-layered approach (like Alaska is doing) to minimize the risk of infection, such as:

  • Wearing masks and practicing good hand hygiene.
  • Health agreements and/or screenings to exclude symptomatic people from travel.
  • Using advanced ventilation and filtration systems in airports and on aircraft.
  • Cleaning high-frequency touch surfaces on aircraft between flights such as tray tables, seatbelts and armrests as well as high-touchpoint areas in airports like check-in kiosks and countertops.

Alaska’s Next-Level Care includes over 100 ways to make you feel safe and confident while traveling, from enhancing our cleaning measures to offering sanitizing wipes and touch-free travel options and so much more.

Every Alaska aircraft is equipped with air flow systems that use HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters—the same kind of filters used in hospitals—that remove 99.9% of infected air particles in the air. Air flows from the ceiling to the floor and creates completely new air in the cabin every six minutes on every flight. There is a full exchange of cabin air with outside and HEPA-filtered air every 2-3 minutes.

Very few COVID cases have been linked to air travel.

According to insights from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), nearly 1.2 billion passengers have traveled since January, in that same period only 44 cases of COVID-19 were reported in which transmission is thought to have been associated with air travel. Even if 90% of those cases were unreported, the risk is 1 in 27 million.

IATA graphic published on Twitter, see IATA’s original tweet.

As for the low number of confirmed cases, IATA’s findings, combined with joint research conducted by aircraft manufacturers Airbus, Boeing and Embraer point to aircraft airflow systems as the reasoning, limiting the spread of viruses by controlling the movement of particles in the cabin.

Airflow systems like HEPA filters, and the natural barrier of the seatback and downward flow of air, plus high rates of air exchange reduce the risk of airborne disease transmission on board. The addition of mask-wearing also adds a further and significant extra layer of protection, which makes being seated in close proximity in an aircraft cabin safer than most other indoor environments.

Some of the ways our Next-Level Care is making travel safer:

  • Mandatory masks
    No mask? No travel. Per Alaska Airlines policy, a cloth face mask or covering is required for the duration of your flight, including boarding and deplaning. This is for the safety of all guests and employees.
  • HEPA filters
    Alaska Airlines has one of the newest fleets in the country, which ensures our aircraft have the latest filtration technology in use. Every aircraft we operate is equipped with HEPA filtration systems that are 99.9% effective or greater in removing infected air particles, including viruses like COVID-19, from the cabin air. The air flows from the ceiling to the floor and creates completely new air in the cabin. There is a full exchange of cabin air with outside and HEPA-filtered air every 2-3 minutes and 100% fresh air every 6 minutes.
  • next level careElectrostatic disinfectant sprayers & enhanced cleaning
    We’re using electrostatic disinfectant sprayers, which emit a safe, high-grade EPA cleaning solution that sanitize surfaces (overhead bins, armrests, tray tables, seatbelts, lavatories, etc).
  • No change fees. Ever.
    That’s right, we’ve sent change fees on a permanent vacation. Your peace of mind is always top of mind, which is why we’re permanently eliminating change fees. Fare differences may still apply.
  • Complimentary hand-sanitizer wipes
    We partnered with EO products to provide hand sanitizing wipes that are 99.9% effective at killing germs.
  • Touch-free options
    To help create more distance between guests, we’re providing our agents with the ability to scan a boarding pass from six feet away—if the conditions are just right. And, with the Alaska Airlines app guests can print their boarding pass(es) at airport kiosks touch-free from their mobile device. Learn more.
  • Social distancing stickers
    To better allow for personal distancing, boarding procedures have been updated so guests board by row numbers in smaller groups from the back to the front.
  • Plexiglass shields
    Plexiglass shields are being installed in all stations throughout our network. The shields will be placed at multiple touchpoints, including the ticketing and customer service counters, the gate areas and our Lounges.
  • Learn more about how we’re making it safe to travel on alaskaair.com.

From a plane to a helicopter employee Terri goes above & beyond the mountains to help an Alaska guest

Last year, Terri Gamble-Potter arranged for a helicopter to deliver a delayed bag to a guest who had arrived in Anchorage from the East Coast on his way to a remote area outside Talkeetna, Alaska.

Knowing that logistics can be challenging for delivery to a remote location, I researched options and was able to have the bag driven to Talkeetna and then airlifted directly to the guest,” says Gamble-Potter, who has been an Anchorage-based customer service agent (CSA) since 1983. On a video of the helicopter’s approach, the guest enthuses: “That’s my freakin’ bag. … Thank you, Alaska Airlines. How ’bout that, huh? That’s service—customer care!”

Terri Potter, Customer Service Agent, 36 years

On another occasion, when a film crew had a tight connection through Anchorage on their way to Nome, she accompanied their checked luggage through security and arranged for a ramp agent to grab it the minute it was cleared so that he could race it to the aircraft.

Gamble-Potter is dedicated to providing excellent service. If someone’s bag is lost, she’s determined to find it. And she not only helps direct guests at baggage carousels, she also assists travelers with offloading their bags.

Success in service comes from having empathy for people, and follow-through, and doing the very best you can for them,” she says.

Throughout her career at Alaska, she has worked in positions ranging from reservations to the ticket counter to training, as well as bag-gage claim, and she says that Anchorage CSAs are “a very dedicated and caring group of people.”

Gamble-Potter, who was previously a travel agent, joined Alaska Airlines because airline salespeople calling on the travel agency were always talking about how wonderful their jobs were, and how great Alaska Airlines was, and how it was like a family, she says. “I felt the airline had the same values I did, and I thought, ‘I’ve got to work there.’ ”

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

What is important to you at work? Giving 100%. We have a responsibility to help each other as co-workers, and to do things safely, and also to put ourselves in the guests’ shoes. I love everything about my job, including being a cheerleader for colleagues and for customer service.

What do you like to do outside of work? I was born and raised in Alaska, and I love living here and being active in the out-doors. I have cruised the Inside Passage and explored other areas of this beautiful state. Outside Alaska, I have traveled to wonderful destinations such as Portugal and the East Coast, and I was even on the first flight from Anchorage to Honolulu on Alaska Airlines. I enjoy organizing community service and volunteering with charities. Each September, my family hikes in Yosemite National Park in support of the Histio Cure Foundation.

What’s most important to you in life? My husband, four children and five grand-kids, who all reside in Alaska.

KUDOS FROM TERRI’S CO-WORKERS

“Terri goes above and beyond for guests. She is a baggage expert and is always there to help new employees learn. She shows compassion to our guests, and is a valuable and important part of our airline family.” — Misty V., CSA Manager, Anchorage

“Terri puts a smile on everybody’s face. She turns a difficult situation into a posi-tive one. She always has positive things to say. She does what she does, not be-cause she is trying to impress anyone, but because that’s just who she is.” — Nathan H., CSA Station Supervisor, Anchorage

“I can go to Terri if I need anything, and she knows exactly where to go so we can help guests out.” — Duane G., Ramp Service Agent, Anchorage

“Terri is passionate about her family, her friends and her airline guests, and that is why she excels in her job.” — Dana S., CSA (retired), Anchorage

Mandy praises flight attendants, says “they are my true heroes in this pandemic”

You’ve heard the term “walk a mile in my shoes.” Mandy Mundy, onboard product & services senior specialist, is a shining example of that. Although she traded flying the skies as a flight attendant for a job behind the scenes, she makes it her mission to continue to walk in the shoes of Horizon Air’s flight attendants, supporting them in their jobs.

Everything I learned from all my experiences flying set me up for the role I have now,” Mundy says. “I work for an incredible group of flight attendants that remind me every day the reason I am here,” she says.

Mundy, who has been with Horizon for 15 years (12 years as a flight attendant) makes it her mission to listen—a lot. She’s always looking for ways, large and small, to make inflight processes better for her flying colleagues.

“Flight attendants can go weeks, if not months, without seeing their inflight leaders. We are always observing for opportunities to improve their work and work environment based on the data we receive from their feedback,” she says.

Mandy with her daughter.

Those that work with Mundy know that she spends as much time with flight attendants as she can. You can regularly find her in the PDX Village and attending as many recurrent ground school classes that she can, which she finds incredibly valuable.

“We have had a lot of great discussions. I am given the opportunity to explain the ‘why’ behind our decisions,” Mundy says.

An example of Mundy’s commitment is when we brought on the E175 aircraft and there were differences between the Q and E galleys so mock galleys were created. She took it upon herself to provide over 20 flight attendants one-on-one training on the jet. She helped film videos to explain service expectations, and often stayed long hours to ensure the training was in place to make our employees successful while aiming to deliver award-winning service to our guests.

No one had to tell Mandy what needed to be done. She knew the destination needed to be reached and found a path to get there. She truly is a Pathfinder,” said Matt Prainito, VP of Horizon Air station and inflight operations.

Leading the way to help others is a theme in Mundy’s life. A self-described horse-lover, she founded a nonprofit organization for mounted search and rescue. She also recently welcomed a baby girl to her household.

Mundy truly loves her job, because she loves people, especially the flight attendants she supports.

“They are incredible, stepping up to the task at hand and willing to adjust to everything that keeps coming at us as we navigate COVID-19.,” says Mundy. “My heart goes out to all those that have essential roles—but flight attendants, they are my true heroes in this pandemic.”

Hawaii welcomes you back and to malama (care for) the Aloha State

Hawaii is eager to welcome visitors to paradise. Starting Oct. 15, Hawaii’s pre-travel testing program will allow anyone entering the state who tests negative for COVID-19 in advance to bypass the current two-week mandatory quarantine (details below).

Test or no test, it’s important to visit safely and thoughtfully. Everyone is invited to experience the destination on a deeper level—connecting with the community, its culture and taking care of each other and the land itself. 

Malama: take care of yourself and Hawaii.

Malama, meaning “to nurture” or “care for,”  is a core value of the Hawaiian culture, and it relates to preserving the land and taking care of all those living there as well. As tourism starts to recover, the islands encourage travelers to be open-minded and respectful of Hawaii’s beauty and leave with a better understanding of what it means to care for the earth, each other and ourselves.

We believe our visitors care about perpetuating the uniqueness of this place,” explains Jay Talwar, chief marketing officer at the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau (which is part of the Hawaii Tourism Authority). “If even a small portion of Hawaii travelers took part in such activities, the effect would be enormous.”

Here’s how you can help:

  • Fly to Hawaii with either a negative COVID-19 state-approved test or prepare to quarantine for two weeks upon arrival. Learn more.
  • Follow the state’s recommendations to stay safe while in the islands (wear a mask, social distance etc.).
  • Be alert at all times in or near the water, don’t take the sea for granted. Avoid turning your back on the waves. If you or others in your party are not an experienced ocean swimmer, select beaches with lifeguards.
  • Exercise good-judgment when hiking in the islands like carrying essential gear, check the weather and be watchful that you only enter lands that are open to you and respect the landscape and its history.
  • Seek experiences that enhance your knowledge of natural and cultural history. Try booking a tour to hike hillsides to learn about Hawaii Island’s volcanoes or the history of local sugar cane farming on Maui and more.

Fly to Hawaii

Starting Oct. 15, Hawaii will allow travelers from out-of-state to proceed without the 14-day quarantine if they test negative for COVID-19 before they arrive in the islands.

Travelers who are five years of age and older must be tested for COVID-19 within 72 hours of your departure flight to Hawaii. Only test results from trusted testing partners approved by the Hawaii Department of Health will be accepted.

Everything you need to know before you go to Hawaii

Guests can enjoy a safe and relaxing flight to the islands thanks to Alaska’s Next-Level Care, which has more than 100 different ways we’re preventing the spread of COVID-19, including mandatory masks, enhanced cleanings between flights, electrostatic disinfectant spray and more.

Alaska is offering you convenient and reliable testing options.

COVID-19 testing options for Alaska Guests

 

We’re making it simple and easy for our guests by providing testing options that guarantee turnaround times for results within the state’s required 72-hour timeframe. All tests meet the requirements of the State of Hawaii’s pre-travel testing program.

  • We’re partnering with Carbon Health to offer rapid COVID-19 testing in pop-up clinics — starting in Seattle on Oct. 12, 2020, and expanding in the coming weeks as we resume nonstop service to Hawaii from other cities on the West Coast.
  • We’re also working with Bartell Drugs to offer PCR-based COVID-19 testing at select locations in Seattle, with guaranteed results within 72 hours.

Learn more about flying to Hawaii here.

 

Alliance countdown: Alaska joins oneworld in six months

Alaska enters a new frontier in six months. On March 31, 2021, for the first time in our 88-year history, we’ll become a member of a global airline alliance: oneworld.

“Every airline has pivotal moments in its history. Decisions that are made for future success and stability, and to provide increased service and a better travel experience for its customers. oneworld offers us those opportunities,” said Nat Pieper, Alaska’s senior vice president of fleet, finances and alliances. “We are officially joining a family with some of the best airlines in the world. The possibilities are tremendous.”

There’s a huge amount of complicated work that’s being done behind-the-scenes at Alaska to meet our aggressive deadline. Changes are required to every one of our major systems so they can ‘talk’ to each oneworld member airline, and ensure we have a smooth and seamless guest experience.

It’s a lot of effort, but we believe it’s worth it:

  • oneworld further opens the world to our guests with more than 1,000 global destinations. You’ll fly more easily from Boise to Beijing or Portland to Prague. We’re already Global Partners with six oneworld members which include American Airlines, British Airways, Japan Airlines and Qantas, but soon we’ll add seven new partners under the alliance umbrella including Iberia and Qatar Airways.
  • Connectivity becomes easier with oneworld as our network (especially strong on the West Coast) supports the major, long-haul international flying of our fellow member airlines.
  • With our award-winning Mileage Plan program, our guests will be able to accrue and redeem miles across the oneworld global network.
  • For our elite travelers, oneworld prides itself on providing a consistent, high quality guest experience across the alliance. Status with us means status with oneworld and its 13 member airlines. This includes access to oneworld member airlines’ lounges when traveling internationally, priority check-in, access to preferred and pre-reserved seats, priority boarding and many other benefits. This key improvement to our guest experience will help us compete with our bigger U.S. rivals who offer their own global network.
  • oneworld also boosts the visibility of the Alaska brand. Being a member of a prestigious global alliance will help us be better known around North America – and around the world.

As spring begins next year, the famous blue orb of oneworld will find its home across our airline. It’ll be on employee name tags; in our airport lobbies, ticket stands and gate areas; in our guest emails, in advertisements, on our billboards; and positioned on our aircraft.

Also, you might be wondering about our partnerships with our current Global Partners that are not a part of oneworld. We value the benefits those partnerships provide our guests, and we’ll continue to maintain them as long as it’s mutually beneficial to do so.

8 ways Alaska Airlines is committed to making travel more accessible

Alaska Airlines aims to make flying and our workplace accessible for everyone. We recognize there’s always room for improvement and continue work to create equal opportunities for our guests and employees with disabilities in the following ways:

1. Building a better future with employee ACCESS business resource group

For nearly a decade, Alaska’s business resource group ACCESS has helped promote inclusive and accessible programs and services for employees and guests with disabilities. Since its founding, ACCESS has helped with countless accessibility related changes and events that have benefited our guests and employees. ACCESS has also helped Alaska continue being a great place to work by promoting diversity & inclusion and respecting people for their differences.

2. Learning and listening from guests and experts on Alaska’s Disability Advisory Board

Gary Peterson

Alaska’s Disability Advisory Board is made up of people from outside the company, who have disabilities and vast experience in disability advocacy. Since 2018, the board has provided recommendations to create more inclusive training, policies and procedures within the company to improve travel experiences of people with disabilities, including our Next-Level Care efforts to combat COVID-19.

“We need numerous people with disabilities to advise us,” said Gary Peterson, a recent retiree and former supervisor of line maintenance. “Disabilities are very diverse, and people with even the same disability have different experiences. I have a mobility disability, so I understand what that means. With other disabilities, I may have empathy for what they go through, but I can’t totally understand until I have to live with it every day.”

3. Easing travel anxiety with technology & relaxing remedies

Last year, Alaska launched a free app in the Apple Store and Google Play called “Fly for All.” Designed for first-time flyers, unaccompanied minors and those with cognitive and developmental disabilities, including autism, the app is designed to help ease the anxiety of air travel by walking guests through the steps they’ll follow when getting ready to fly. Since its creation, the app has been downloaded by over 20,000 people.

On a related note, if guests are overwhelmed while flying they can enjoy relaxing remedies like our free Headspace meditation sessions via Alaska’s onboard entertainment or calming lavender scented EO sanitizing wipes which are a couple ways we’re providing Next-Level Care to our everyone onboard.

4. Offering accessible travel options

While Alaska recognizes guests are experts when it comes to their needs, our employees are there to assist every step of the way from boarding, in the air and anywhere in between. We offer many accessible travel services and accommodations to make travel easier, which can be found on alaskaair.com.

5. Organizing airport, flight tours for families in the autism community

Alaska employees come together every year in various cities around the country to offer guests with cognitive and developmental disabilities including autism and their families the chance to go through the steps of air travel in a realistic, relaxed environment without ever leaving the airport.

Photo taken by Ingrid Barrentine at an event last year.

During October, which is Disability Employment Awareness Month, we partner with airports and disability partners to offer unique guided tours that cover the check-in and security process, to waiting at the gate area and boarding an Alaska aircraft. Wings for Autism in Washington and Ability to Fly in California and others in Oregon and Alaska are temporarily on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

6. Traveling with a trained emotional support animal or service animal

Alaska routinely collaborates with Guide Dogs for the Blind and Canine Companions for Independence to provide airport access for puppies in training, partners with the Paralyzed Veterans of America to improve employee education for the proper handling of guests’ mobility devices, and is working with Open Doors Org, United Spinal Association, to increase the hiring of individuals with disabilities and provide inclusive travel experiences for our guests with disabilities.

7. Making travel almost entirely touch-free

With hygiene and safety concerns top of mind, we’ve made it easy for your travels to be almost entirely touch-free. With the Alaska mobile app, you can check in for your flight, generate a mobile boarding pass and so much more. Plus, our improved technology will soon allow us to scan boarding passes up to six feet apart, print bag tags without touching the check-in kiosk and purchase food and beverages on board using your stored payment preference.

8. Always open to feedback

We are dedicated to providing convenient and comfortable service for all our guests. If you have concerns regarding discrimination, accommodations, or services for any guests with disabilities we welcome you to directly share your feedback with us.

Related:

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month year-round with these eats, sights & flights

Now and always, we honor the Hispanic, Latinx, and Latino-identified communities and their tremendous impact on our country. Below are some of our favorite destinations that embody, contribute to and are influenced by Hispanic culture year-round.

Alaska Airlines has a long history of flying to Latin America, starting with the launch of service to Mexico more than 30 years ago — with routes to Cancun, Guadalajara, Loreto, Los Cabos, Manzanillo, Mazatlán, Puerto Vallarta and Zihuatanejo. You can also discover the Caribbean and other parts of the world via our Global Partners, including American Airlines that flies to more than 50 Spanish-speaking destinations including the Dominican Republic, Central and South America.

You can use or earn miles on Alaska for traveling to your favorite worldwide destinations—and book with peace of mind knowing we’ve permanently eliminated change fees and are bringing you Next-Level Care.

So go ahead and take that trip you’ve always dreamed about. Here are some places to keep in mind:

El Paso

“Animo Sin Fronteras” Mural by El Mac | Photo by Federico Villalba

Eats: Enjoy authentic Mexican culinary experience—whatever you do, order the sopapillas.
Sights: Hotel Indigo is a dream location for Instagrammers. This boutique hotel offers some quirky and hip things that you can document with pictures. Animo Sin Fronteras is a giant “Courage Without Borders” mural that pays homage to the Mexican influence in El Paso. If you’re looking for some outdoorsy splendor, the Chihuahuan Desert or the Rio Grande are also a must-see, don’t forget sunscreen & water!
Flights: Fly to El Paso

San Antonio

Photo by Ingrid Barrentine.

San Antonio is a city of deep roots and vibrant culture, located in the heart of South Texas.
Eats: From River Walk favorites to family-owned restaurants, San Antonio’s timeless classics and modern takes on Mexican and Latin American food keep visitors coming back for more. Get ready for flavor & fun!
Sights: Mission San Antonio de Valero, better known as the Alamo—what remains of the oldest mission is one of the most-visited sites in the state and is easily the most sacred.
Flights: Fly to San Antonio

San Diego

Eats: San Diego’s cuisine is a delicious Cali-Baja blend of fresh-inspired ingredients combined with traditional Mexican style eats. At the iconic Barrio Logan eatery Las Cuatro Milpas, locals line up for authentic homestyle Mexican food and freshly made tortillas.
Sights: The outdoor murals at Chicano Park are home to the largest collection of Chicano murals in the U.S., it was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2017. Latinx influences can be discovered through the region’s colorful neighborhoods and don’t miss stopping by Latinx and Hispanic owned businesses while in San Diego.
Flights: Fly to San Diego

Los Angeles


In a city where Latinos are nearly 50% of the population according to the U.S. Census, there is certainly much to celebrate.
Eats: A stop at Cielito Lindo is a must. Since 1934, the stand has served up freshly made, mouth-watering taquitos with avocado sauce. Appease your sweet tooth with the chocolate-filled churros.
Sights: El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument is historical, but it’s vibrant draw is Olvera Street, a brick-paved colorful walkthrough that serves as the setting for a lively Mexican-style market to find food, handicrafts like pottery, leather goods, masks, and folk art.
Flights: Fly to Los Angeles

New York

With vibrant neighborhoods, world-class museums, authentic dining experiences, exciting stays and more to safely explore visitors & New Yorkers have lots to enjoy in the five boroughs to celebrate Hispanic Heritage.
Eats: Grab a bite at the Zona de Cuba, a Cuban restaurant offering delicious and authentic food like vaca frita and ropa vieja.
Sights: Wander East Harlem, or “El Barrio” and check out El Museo to see Puerto Rican, Caribbean, and Latin American art.
Flights: Fly to New York

Costa Rica

Tucked into Central America, Costa Rica is packed with stunning tropical rainforests, epic beaches and things to do.
Eats: Seafoodies can eat it up at the Vargas family’s marisquería restaurant. For more than three decades the seafood eatery has offered fresh fish, tropical drinks and cold brews right on the beach. No visit is complete without arroz con mariscos (seafood rice), featuring the day’s catch or the raw ceviche de chuchecas (blood clams) paired with a shrimp cocktail.
Sights: There is no festival in Costa Rica that takes place without a nod to its agricultural heritage, horses and cowboys are ubiquitous to the culture. Take a ride for yourself to see some pretty breathtaking views!
Flights: Fly to Costa Rica

Miami

Miami is home to one of the largest melting pots of Latin and Caribbean culture in the U.S.
Eats: Satisfy your snackable cravings and more at some of the best Spanish restaurants in Miami. Looking for some traditional tapas? Bulla’s bar serves up a buzzy, trendy vibe with deliciosa gourmet tapas and craft cocktails.
Sights: Wander and enjoy Latin activity as downtown’s Flagler Street, the unavoidable Elián González house, and Little Havana’s Domino Park and Tower Theatre, among others.
Flights: Fly to New York

Chicago

Eats: Chicago doesn’t just have deep dish pizza. It’s also known for excellent Mexican cuisine that includes traditional favorites and new fusion flavors.
Sights: The windy city also has vibrant Latino communities such as Pilsen, Little Village and Humboldt Park. That’s where you’ll find top cultural institutions like the National Museum of Mexican Art and colorful street art by renowned Hispanic artists.
Flights: Fly to Chicago

If you have a favorite place that we missed, we’d love to hear from you, comment below!

Captain Mike tells everyone he flies with ‘This is your airline. It’s yours to take care of.’

Captain Mike Baumgartner set out to join Alaska Airlines in the early 1980s. He’d gotten his pilot training as a teenager and spent time in Alaska flying fish from Dry Bay to Yakutat in DC-3s.

Looking for a chance to join what he felt was ‘the best airline in the business’ he put in his resume at Alaska Airlines. After several tries, he finally got an interview, but says he was so nervous he thought he failed. Only after the hiring manager stood up to dismiss him did finally relax and let his true personality shine through. They ended up talking for another hour and a half, and Mike got the job. That was February 1984.

Capt. Mike Baumgartner

Baumgartner’s been sharing his zest for flying with Alaska over 30 years now and continues to raise the bar for his fellow pilots.

When Captain Mike Baumgartner learned he won the Alaska Airlines most prestigious customer service award, he was so grateful he bought lunch—for the entire back office. Management employees remember that day last summer when pizza, after pizza arrived in the foyer of Corporate Headquarters, with Capt. Mike serving it up with a smile.

“It’s his positive attitude every single day, flying the airplane, working with crews, working with our passengers,” said Capt. Scott Day, system chief pilot. “That’s what makes him special.”

He’s been known to grab a vacuum, cross seatbelts and even get down into the wheel well to get a flight out.

CEO Brad Tilden, who wrote about Baumgartner in Alaska’s Beyond inflight magazine said, “Mike’s a pilot’s pilot. He has flown a ton over his career, but he has also made his voice and his leadership count to help us move our culture forward.”

In addition to his job in the flight deck, Baumgartner has facilitated employee workshops; he’s volunteered at Aviation Days and countless other activities; and even represented employees as an ambassador on Wall Street.

With just over two years until he reaches pilot retirement age, Baumgartner admits he’s getting a bit nostalgic.

“I love this place.” he says. “I tell everyone I fly with, ‘This is your airline. It’s yours to take care of.’”

Feel Good Friday: Our guests applaud Next-Level Care, wish farewell to employees

There’s no flying around it; we’re living through some turbulent times that challenge us daily, from the way Alaska Airlines’ operates to the size of our company. But no matter what, one thing we can always count on is living our core value of kind-heartedness.

By caring for our guest’s safety and shedding tears of gratitude for one another, our kindness shines through messages from our guests and people. Check out some of our favorite posts below.

Alaska’s Care is Next-Level.

As our guests face the world, we want to make sure they’re doing it safely, and travelers are taking notice.

Rapid COVID testing: A partnership our Hawaii-bound guests will ‘lava’ lot.

Earlier this week, we announced that as Hawaii welcomes back visitors on Oct. 15, we will be working with local clinics to offer rapid COVID-19 testing for outbound guests, starting in Seattle. And well, it was conch shell music to our guests’ ears.

Guest comment: Is there any doubt as to why I love you, Alaska Airlines? We had to cancel three (re)scheduled trips this year and have decided to just wait until next year. But THANK YOU for arranging this!!

Bittersweet farewells to employees: Thank you for your service and dedication

This week, we said goodbye to those who are leaving Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air. Though none of us wanted this to be our reality, COVID-19 has significantly changed the travel industry and our airline. Alaska and Horizon guests and employees wished those leaving the company bittersweet farewells and thanked all who have sacrificed, so that we can rebuild and have promising futures.

 

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I cried at work yesterday. Again. Watching @alaskaair Captain Lee Erickson and wife Brenda, an Alaska flight attendant, turn in their wings early due to the fallout from the devastating effects of COVID-19 on the airline industry. The couple, who met at work, and raised their three children to love the aviation life, took early retirement in part to save their kids’ jobs. Their daughter is an Alaska flight attendant, and son is a pilot, and the third born? He is in flight school. Captain Erickson was able to fly his last flight with his son as first officer. The flight from Dallas was met in Seattle by extended family and several peers. Needless to say, I wasn’t the only one with shining eyes. The six months that have passed since our lives were turned upside down have been hard for so many. But I feel most deeply for my friends in the aviation industry. I know this time will eventually only live in our memories, but I must emphatically say. “THIS IS HARD.” #travel #aviation #avgeek #avitioncouple #aviationcareer #iflyalaska #iamalaska #pilot #flightattendant

A post shared by Ingrid Barrentine (@ingridbarrentine) on

On his last flight, Captain Barton Bennett wrote a letter to everyone onboard.

Mother and father turn in their wings early, with the next generation in mind

When the Erickson family gets together for the holidays, the conversations go straight to schedules, layovers, trip pairings and which city has the best happy hour.  It’s not that the large family intends to “talk shop” at the family dinner table, it’s because five of them work for Alaska Airlines.

Dad, Lee Erickson, is a captain. Mom, Brenda, is a flight attendant, as is daughter Sidney and uncle Wade. Oldest son, Kalin, is a first officer and youngest son Keaton did an internship with Alaska Airlines and is now finishing flight school.

Together, the Erickson family flew on Lee’s retirement flight on Monday, Sept. 28 , from Dallas to Seattle.

Slideshow through the years

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The right thing to do

You could say that Alaska Airlines and flying is deep-rooted in the Erickson family tree.

That is, until recently. With the world impacted by COVID-19 and most airlines, including Alaska, forced to downsize, Lee and Brenda decided to turn in their wings early, taking retirement after 36 years of service. The decision came after several late nights of agonizing back-and-forth discussions.  But in the end, they knew it was the right thing to do to help protect their children’s jobs.

“Alaska has provided us with careers filled with life-long memories,” Lee says. “Now, I hope it does the same for our two kids and their peers. Leaving gives them a better chance.”

Her parents’ sacrifice struck Sidney Erickson as an example of how that generation of employees at Alaska Airlines are choosing to end their careers early to give back to the younger generation. And, she imagines there are many other stories like her parents’ worth telling.

Watch Seattle salute Captain Lee and his son on Lee’s retirement flight:

Building an airline people love, all comes back to family

Growing up, the Ericksons were the quintessential Alaska family.

“I truly think we had no idea any other airline existed until we were much older,” Sidney admits.  They weathered the storms and rejoiced in the sunshine as Alaska’s history was woven into their own family stories.

Lee hugs his daughter in the gate area of Sea-Tac after flying his last Alaska flight.

Among the memories was the chance to fly together. “I had the pleasure of flying with both of my parents, even getting to do my flight deck observation with my dad,” Sidney says. “There is no better feeling than seeing someone you love take pride in their job.”

Kalin echoed that sentiment, having been able to right-seat for his dad with his mom in the cabin. “It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience to be able to fly with both of my parents,” Kalin says.

Lee and Brenda’s dream (long before COVID) was to arrange a flight with an entire “Erickson crew,” but it never happened.  Brenda didn’t even realize that the last time she was on an aircraft would be her last flight, as she had taken a leave of absence in March.

“Retirement was always the end game culminating a long career,” Lee says, “But COVID changed everything. I really didn’t get a chance to say goodbye to so many co-workers who have touched our family’s lives.”

Lee flew his last flight on Monday, Sept. 28, from Dallas to Seattle. Kalin joined him, as first officer.

Lee and son Kalin.

Life lessons from mom and dad

The Erickson kids remain grateful to their parents, and to other employees who are taking early outs and leaves to help the airline.  They know there are no guarantees, but as they move forward to what’s next in their careers, they hold fast to the lessons their parents taught them.

“My mom has always said what a privilege it is that every day when you get to work you have the ability to make someone’s life better by making their day better,” Sidney says. “And my dad always said to give your colleagues your respect and always be kind. They will repay you in the same currency.”

Lee and Brenda are excited at the prospect of a new adventure. They plan to ease into retirement in their motorhome, traveling the U.S. and visiting national parks.

“It’ll be a change for sure,” Brenda says, as their hearts will remain with their airline and their kids.

Alaska Strong

Many of our employees, like Brenda and Lee, have voluntarily taken early retirements or leaves of absence so the company could save as many jobs as possible.

At Alaska, each and every furlough represents a career and a life that has been disrupted by the pandemic. Since March, 720 people volunteered for early outs or early retirements and another 4,468 have taken voluntary leaves or other furlough mitigation.

Every bit helps, and we are so thankful for those who participated in these voluntary programs – every volunteer saved a job of a fellow employee. The strength of Alaska Airlines is its people and like the Erickson family, our people are showing the world what it means to be Alaska Strong.

A latte coffee recipes you’ll enjoy on the fly or at-home

While it still isn’t possible to cozy up in cafés, there are still *safe* ways to get your favorite cup of coffee—by either stopping by Alaska Airlines Lounges or making it yourself at home!

Alaska Lounge Barista Naomi says her favorite drink to make is the Mocha because “they smell so good!”

Brewing the perfect cup is all about sweetness, strength and temperature—and a perfectly sprinkled plane on top. Our favorite brew is Starbucks (of course), served on all our flights and in our Lounges. Currently, Alaska Lounges in Anchorage, Los Angeles, Portland, and Seattle Concourse D & N are open with guidelines in place to ensure your comfort and safety. Expect to see our commitment to Next-Level Care on your next visit.

To celebrate International Coffee Day, we asked our Lounges for the recipes behind some of our favorite brews, check out the picks below:

But first, here’s what you’ll need:

  • Hot or cold water
  • Coffee beans (grounded)—We brew our hometown favorite Starbucks coffee in our Lounges and onboard our aircraft.
  • Milk—We offer half-n-half, 2%, non-fat, almond and soy.
  • Syrup (optional)—We love the classics: Vanilla, Sugar-Free Vanilla, Cinnamon Dolce and Hazelnut. We also offer Chocolate, Caramel and Pumpkin Spice syrups. As we move into the holidays, we will add Peppermint too!
  • Ice (if you’re going for an iced latte)

Hot or iced Latte:

Lattes are made with espresso, steamed milk and milk foam.
Recipe
1) Add flavor (if any). If you’re feeling fall try pouring a dash (1 tbsp or so) of pumpkin spice syrup.
2) Steam milk — little bit of foam.
3) Pull shots.
4) Add 1 shot to cup.
5) Pour steamed milk.
6) Spoon about a little foam on top.
7) Pour in the ice (if making an iced latte)
8) Sprinkle on any toppings (if any).

Americano

An Americano is made by adding hot water to espresso.
Recipe
1) Flavor first (if your heart desires)
2) Boil or start hot water.
3) Pull shots.
4) Add 1 shot (or desired amt.) to cup.
5) Fill rest with water.
6) For an iced americano, skip the hot water/go straight with cold and add ice at the end. If you have time, first add flavor then shots and let it sit in the fridge for 5-min then fill the rest with water.

Cappuccino

Caps are very similar to lattes, but have a greater percentage of foamed milk to steamed milk.
Recipe
1) Add flavor (if desired).
2) Steam milk — extra foamy.
3) Pull shots.
4) Add shot(s) to cup.
5) Pour steamed milk.
6) Spoon about an inch of foam on top.

Caramel Macchiato

Macchiatos have no steamed milk added to the espresso, but a little cap of milk foam.
Recipe
1) Two pumps vanilla.
2) Steam milk — extra foamy.
3) Pull shots.
4) Pour steamed milk (remember to leave room for shots).
5) Spoon about an inch of foam on top.
6) Add shot(s) to cup.
7) Swirl caramel sauce on top of foam.

Mocha

Simply put: the mocha is short for a “mocha latte” or a “caffe mocha,” which is just a regular latte with chocolate syrup added to it.
Recipe
1) Two pumps of chocolate sauce.
2) Steam milk — little bit of foam.
3) Pull shots.
4) Add shot(s) to cup and stir with chocolate.
5) Pour steamed milk.
6) Spook about a little bit of foam on top.
7) Give it a quick stir.

Espresso

Espressos are packed with flavor, and the most concentrated form of coffee served in “shots.”
Recipe
1) Pull shots.
2) Pour both into a little cup.

Loose Leaf Tea

Recipe
1) Add 2 scoops of tea to tea steeper.
2) 10 ounces of water.
3) Steep for 2 minutes.
4) Drain into mug.

No matter where you are, we hope you enjoy a nice, relaxing cup of your favorite brew & to see you in the skies soon.

Alaska Lounge Barista Michi A.

Kathy does everything she can so guests know they’re in good hands

When a woman in her 70s arrived for her Boise-to-Seattle flight without the correct portable oxygen machine for travel, Kathy Reissig called the guest’s medical-equipment supplier, which agreed to do an exchange if the woman returned to the store. But the woman had arrived at the airport by taxi, so Reissig drove her in Reissig’s own car—20 minutes each way—to make the exchange. Reissig also reticketed the woman for a later flight, and called the guest’s family members in Seattle to let them know about the change.

“I care about people,” says Reissig, a Boise-based Customer Services Supervisor who has been with the airline for nearly 35 years, doing jobs ranging from ticketing, boarding and baggage/cargo handling to deicing and marshaling aircraft, on her way to becoming a supervisor.

“My experience allows me to help wherever I’m needed. I consider our agents my first customers, and I always want to do the best I can for them and partner with them. I get thanked a lot for jumping in and being an extra hand. It’s a small thing that goes a long way.”

Kathy Reissig

She is also known for being calm, kind, nurturing, respectful and friendly with team members and guests, and requiring utmost attention to safety, regulations compliance and service. “We get to connect with people from different walks of life, and that is fun,” she says.

“We have these wonderful people who get on an airplane, and they are trusting that we are doing what we’re supposed to do, and our job is to make sure that we do everything we’re supposed to do, every day.”

Reissig joined Horizon after high school, when a travel agent uncle noted that airlines have good travel benefits. “He was right—our family has had marvelous vacations,” she says.

She also loves the daily variety of her job, the scheduling flexibility and the employee camaraderie.

“We are like a family. I always tell guests, ‘You are in good hands,’” she said.

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