Healthcare workers around the country are in need of masks, gloves and other protective equipment now more than ever.
On Wednesday, Alaska Airlines transported materials that will be used to create 210,000 hospital-grade masks for caregivers at Providence’s 51 hospitals across the western United States.
Alaska’s flights carrying this cargo originated in Seattle and landed in Dallas, Phoenix and Los Angeles, where the masks will be assembled. They will then be distributed to Providence hospitals throughout Alaska, California, New Mexico, Montana, Oregon, Texas and Washington state.
The masks will be created by skilled craftspeople from Kaas Tailored, a furniture manufacturer in Mukilteo, Washington, which stepped in to produce the much-needed supplies. They also developed PPE design specifications to share with other manufacturers.
“For years, Alaska Airlines has helped us fly doctors, nurses and other medical personnel up and down the West Coast. Now more than ever, it’s mission critical to get protective equipment to caregivers, who are caring for millions of people in the communities we serve,” said Dr. Amy Compton-Phillips, chief clinical officer for Providence. “We are heartened by all the great companies stepping up to the 100 Million Mask Challenge and hope more will join our efforts to protect our country’s caregivers.”
During this time of uncertainty, air travel continues to be an essential service. Alaska Airlines remains committed to helping medical professionals and lifesaving supplies get to the places where they are needed most.
“Every day, we carry essentials such as food, mail and lifesaving items, including crucial medication and medical equipment,” said Rick Bendix, Alaska Air Cargo spokesperson. “Across our network we’re packing our freighters and maximizing cargo in the belly of passenger aircraft to deliver essential goods to our customers throughout our expansive network.”
Looking for a change of scenery? Download our destination Zoom backgrounds
If you’re dreaming of transporting yourself to your favorite destination during a Zoom meeting, we’ve got you covered!
Below, you’ll find some amazing photos to download and use as a background for your next video call. If you don’t use Zoom, feel free to just save your favorites as travel inspiration.
Make one of these destinations your Zoom background in 3 easy steps:
Download and save your favorite pictures from the blog.
In Zoom, find the arrow next to the camera icon and click “choose virtual background” OR go to Preferences/Settings > Virtual Background.
Upload the picture you downloaded! Ta-da! A Zoom with a view!
If you’re still having issues uploading a background, please visit the Zoom Help Center.
Like you, we feel that getting where you need to go should be hassle-free and enjoyable. And yet, in these uncertain times, travel changes and cancellations have become the norm. But there is one thing you can absolutely count on: we care about you 24/7.
Alaska Airlines reservation agents are a constant and dependable source of reassurance and help when we need it most. Our employees have been working around the clock, many working overtime, handling an unprecedented amount of phone calls and social-media messages – the volume of guest outreach has been 200% higher than normal.
“Although we are happy to talk with you, the online service is there to help save you time during the highest call volumes ever seen,” says Reservation Agent Amanda.
To avoid longer wait times, please contact us only if you have travel in the next 72 hours. Pro tip: you can always change or cancel your travel online.
Glicel is a Seattle-based reservation agent and has worked for Alaska Airlines for 2 years.
Glicel, Reservation Agent
She moved to Washington state from the Philippines in 2005. She loves to travel (her favorite destination is of course the Philippines). When she’s not working, she likes to spend time with family and friends, playing with make up and volunteering at her son’s school.
How do you begin your work day?“I always have a quote in front of me, ‘Start a day with a grateful heart’. Isay it out loud before the start of every shift.” She says her day is also filled with black coffee and matcha green tea (only from Japan).
What your favorite part about your job?“Being kind. It goes a long way. You can brighten up someone else’s’ day with just one act of kindness.”
Tylor
Tylor is a reservation agent based in Boise and has been with Alaska Airlines for 1.5 years.
Tylor, Reservation Agent
How has work been for you lately & what advice do you have for our guests? “The increase in calls has been tough, but we are committed to helping each and every guest with their concerns,” he says. “My advice for guests who want to change their travel is the website is your best friend!” Tylor says changing your travel online is much easier, quicker these days due to larger call volumes.
What has been getting your through the busy days? “I really lean on my colleagues at a time like this. Even though we all work remotely, the communication and encouragement we get each and every day helps.”
Amanda
Amanda is based in Seattle and has been a reservation agent at Alaska Airlines for 2 years 8 months, 1 week, and 2 days – she’s been counting 😉
Amanda, Reservation Agent
Amanda is a single mom who loves working for Alaska Airlines. She enjoys being able to work from home and take her dogs for a walk on her breaks to breathe, and get some fresh air.
Her advice: “Try online first,” she says if you’re looking to change or cancel your travel plans. “The online system works well and if you want to change or cancel the reservation the system is correct in telling you what it can offer.” She says it also saves your time waiting for an agent and can be done in minutes.
How she keeps her wits: “I drink a lot of coffee and water and try to get enough sleep,” she says. “I also lean on a couple of group agents I went to training with as we help support each other when we need to vent. We truly celebrate our successes and struggles, and even our failures together.”
Sara
Sara is a reservation agent based in Phoenix and has been with Alaska Airlines for 3.5 years.
Sara, Reservation Agent
Do you have a mantra? “I believe that sharing smiles and laughter with our guests, definitely sets the tone for good calls. We are all real people and not robots, which our guests really appreciate.”
What keeps you going? “I drink water and snack on popcorn most days,” she says. “I’ve also been going on hikes, listening to tunes, and chasing sunsets after work.”
—
From all of us at Alaska, we hope you and your loved ones are staying safe, healthy and happy during this unprecedented time.
This Q&A originally published March 20 – The question related to wearing a mask was updated June 17.
We know that the HEPA filters in Alaska Airlines aircraft are robust and effective at filtering many pathogens from the air. But does this coronavirus float around in the air?
At this time, there is no evidence that the virus floats in the air leading to infection farther away. Current understanding about how the virus that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) spreads is largely based on what is known about similar coronaviruses. The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.
Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads. The virus is fragile and does not live long on surfaces.
If I travel, what are some things I can do to prevent getting sick?
Great question! Probably the most important thing you can do to prevent getting sick while traveling is to wash your hands frequently. This means washing your hands not only before eating and after using the bathroom, but also multiple times throughout the day. Another helpful recommendation is to wipe down high touch surfaces, like tray tables and arm rests.
Are children or older adults more susceptible to the virus that causes COVID-19 compared with the general population?
There is a lot more to learn about this virus but so far it looks like it doesn’t peer to be very harmful for children. For most healthy adults this infection may be more like the flu. At the same time, it does seem to be much more dangerous for older adults and people who have medical issues with their hearts, lungs and kidneys or who may be immunosuppressed.
How effective is wearing a mask?
The CDC,who advise the country on public health,recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain, such as grocery stores, pharmacies, and gas stations. Read more
Meet our doctors:
John Lynch, M.D., M.P.H., is a board-certified physician and medical director of Harborview’s Infection Control, Antibiotic Stewardship and Employee Health programs. Dr. Lynch is also a UW associate professor of Medicine and Allergy and Infectious Diseases. He earned his M.D. and M.P.H. from the University of Washington. He conducts research on healthcare-associated infections. At the UW School of is a board-certified physician and medical director of Harborview’s Infection Control, Antibiotic Stewardship and Employee Health programs. Dr. Lynch is also a UW associate professor of Medicine and Allergy and Infectious Diseases. He earned his M.D. and M.P.H. from the University of Washington. He conducts research on healthcare-associated infections. At the UW School of Medicine.
Chloe Bryson-Cahn, MD has a master’s degree from the University of Washington School of Public Health and graduated from Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine. She completed a residency at UCLA Medical Center and currently practices at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, WA.
There’s no place like home: Alaska Airlines employees rally to help our guests fly
Over these recent tumultuous weeks, tens of thousands of guests have reached out to Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air for help with travel. Whether guests needed to reschedule long-awaited trips or were looking for guidance on how Alaska is keeping guests and employees safe from the novel coronavirus as they travel, our teams have worked hard to give their support. We’re in it together and are here for you.
Most guests are simply trying to find the best way home.
Our employees have been working around the clock, handling an unprecedented amount of phone calls and social-media queries. “It’s taken an all ‘hands-on-deck’ approach to deal with the increased volumes,” says Michael Roy, Alaska’s social-care program manager. He says the volume of requests has been 200% higher than normal. “Many of our agents have worked until midnight, only to wake up early the next morning to assist our guests.”
Our @AlaskaAir social care team is here for you 24/7. We love hearing from our guests when our team members get them where they need to go, especially when it’s home sweet home. Today, we’re sharing a few stories of instances where our remarkable teams helped people on their journeys.
San Francisco to Portland: “Going above and beyond: Our trainer, Maivan, deserves kudos for making sure a passenger who was traveling from overseas got back home to his family in Portland. She did her best to help him out and he was very happy. Total definition of the service framework. Go Maivan!”
Shared by Mary Ruth A., Alaska Airlines customer service agent, San Francisco, on March 16
Anchorage to Vancouver, B.C.: “Johnny from the Boise reservations team made it possible for a Croatian guest and two German guests on Canadian work visas to return from Anchorage to Vancouver, B.C., before emergency travel restrictions took effect in Canada. They had been dealing with weather delays on their journey among some other reservation snafus. Johnny’s work helped them get to Vancouver on time, and the guests were very appreciative. They would have had no way to get back to their jobs and homes in Canada had it not been fixed.”
Shared by Matt W., Alaska Airlines customer service agent, Anchorage, on March 16
Help during a crisis: “Alaska guest Vera sent an email sharing the amazing customer service she received from Daralyn L. in our reservations department. In Vera’s words: Daralyn was pleasant, knowledgeable and very helpful – and makes me want to support and use Alaska Airlines for my travel needs. I want to thank Daralyn and Alaska Air for taking care of me during a crisis situation.”
Shared by Karen U., Alaska Airlines customer care representative, Seattle, on March 19
San Francisco to Portland, Oregon: “My niece and I flew from SFO to PDX yesterday. Our flight attendant was Jose Antonio Ortiz. He was amazing! He’s such a treasure. He had us laughing and joking with him. It’s been a stressful few weeks for everyone and he made us forget that for a bit.”
Shared by Andre R., Alaska Airlines customer care representative, Seattle, on March 20
Alaska Airlines unites with local businesses to help residents who need it most
As the nation confronts the coronavirus outbreak, it’s those on the front lines who need help the most: workers without health insurance, healthcare’s first responders, residents in our region’s most vulnerable communities.
Leaders across the country are working hard to respond to the pandemic and will be for some time. We admire the creative leadership and partnership of public and private sector entities to support food and nutrition, shelter, education and other basic needs of the neighbors within our communities.
We are humbled by this collective effort. While simply one step, Alaska Airlines is grateful to join other businesses headquartered in the Seattle region – including Amazon, Costco, Microsoft and Starbucks – to support the Seattle Foundation’s COVID-19 Response Fund. The joint effort by philanthropic, government and corporate partners has raised more than $12 million since it was announced March 9, with donations from businesses and individuals continuing to come in.
Donations will be used to support organizations with deep roots in affected communities, and funds are expected to start reaching front-line community groups within the next few weeks. Learn more about how businesses can donate.
“Our region has faced many challenges over the years, and this coronavirus is no exception,” said Brad Tilden, Alaska Airlines chairman and CEO. “All 23,000 of us at Alaska are focused on keeping employees and guests safe every day, and we are optimistic about our future. We’re proud to join the city, county and partners across our region to support this fund for those with the greatest needs.”
The grants will focus on needs in these hard-hit communities within the Puget Sound region:
Residents without health insurance and/or access to sick days
Residents with limited English language proficiency
Healthcare and gig economy workers
Communities of color, among others
“Alaska Airlines and the Alaska Airlines Foundation are dedicated to supporting our communities and continuing our work to enable opportunities for young people,” said Diana Birkett Rakow, vice president for external relations. “Right now, these are our most urgent needs: to protect and support our community’s most vulnerable – and to get through this crisis together.”
The following immediate needs in the community will be the first priority for the grants:
The economic impact of reduced and lost work due to the outbreak
Needs of economically vulnerable populations caused by closures and cancellations related to COVID-19
Increased demand for medical information and support
Fear and confusion about the outbreak among the region’s most vulnerable residents
“COVID-19 represents a battle on two fronts – a public health crisis and a threat to the economic stability of so many in our region,” said Seattle Foundation President and CEO Tony Mestres. “While we are all dealing with the effects of this outbreak, some of our neighbors face disproportionate challenges around time off work, the cost of care, and reliable access to information. Through this Fund and thanks to the generous support of our partners, we want to make sure everyone in our community has the support they need, regardless of race, place, income, or identity.”
To inquire about the grants or be considered, email the Seattle Foundation at covid19@seattlefoundation.org. Funds will be awarded to community organizations, and individuals in need of support should inquire about help from organizations working within their communities.
Visit Seattle Foundation’s website to stay up to date on the status of the COVID-19 Fund’s fundraising and grants.
Information involving PenAir Flight 3296 marketed by Alaska Airlines
Starting March 13, guests flying on RavnAir Alaska between Dutch Harbor and Anchorage can now earn or use Alaska Airlines miles. Guests will have the options to select either RavnAir’s FlyAway Awards or Alaska Airlines miles when booking flights between Unalaska and Anchorage. In order to collect or use Alaska Airlines miles, travelers will need an Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan number. For travel on Alaska Airlines miles, bookings must be made at Alaskaair.com.
Posted: 3:00 p.m. on Nov. 15, 2019
Nearly one month ago, PenAir Flight 3296 was involved in an incident when the aircraft overran the runway at Dutch Harbor, Alaska, which resulted in a loss of life and injuries to others onboard. Our thoughts remain with the those affected by this incident.
We also understand it has deeply impacted the community in Unalaska with the sudden loss of scheduled air service. Everyone at Alaska Airlines appreciates the community’s collaborative efforts, patience and resilience as we look for ways to support.
Ravn Air Group has decided to halt service of the Saab 2000 aircraft pending a full investigation into the circumstances of the incident. We respect and support that decision and are presently conducting our own assessment. It could be several months before that process is complete. Accordingly, all flights marketed by Alaska Airlines to and from Dutch Harbor through May 31, 2020 have been canceled.
Ravn Alaska has begun scheduled air service from Dutch Harbor to Anchorage with the Dash-8 aircraft. We are pleased that Unalaskans will again have access to scheduled air service.
Changes to service between Anchorage and Dutch Harbor:
Anyone who booked a ticket through Alaska Airlines that is now one of the canceled PenAir flights, will receive an email informing them that their DUT-ANC or ANC-DUT flight will automatically be rebooked on a Ravn flight, for no additional charge. This will apply both to tickets purchased with cash, and those booked as award flights through Alaska Airlines Mileage Program. Bags will be checked to the guest’s final destination.
If a ticket involves downline travel on Alaska Airlines, either in-state or out, that portion of the ticket will remain in place. Guests who prefer to receive a full refund instead of being rebooked on a Ravn flight or wish to change the Ravn flight on which they have been rebooked may call 1-800-ALASKAAIR.
Currently, there are no plans for Alaska Airlines to market service to and from DUT on Ravn or any other carrier.
Travel to and from DUT booked on Ravn will not accrue Alaska Mileage Plan miles. There is no change to accrual or redemption on Ravn to other destinations.
We are extending the cancellation of flights between Anchorage and Dutch Harbor marketed by Alaska Airlines through Nov. 15. This extra time will allow our guests to make any necessary changes to their travel arrangements.
Posted: 8:45 a.m. on Oct. 24, 2019
One week ago, PenAir Flight 3296 was involved in an incident when the aircraft overran the runway at Dutch Harbor, Alaska. We continue to keep those impacted in our thoughts, realizing what a difficult time this is for so many.
In the interest of safety, Ravn Air Group has paused the use of the Saab 2000 aircraft into Dutch Harbor in the wake of the incident on Oct. 17. Alaska Airlines will not market scheduled service to or from Dutch Harbor with a Saab 2000 until the preliminary findings of the NTSB and Saab have been reviewed. We understand this is a difficult time for the Unalaska community and seafood industry with the limited air service available.
At this time, flights marketed by Alaska Airlines through Nov. 8 have been canceled. Customers holding a ticket for travel through Nov. 8 will receive a full refund. Please call 1-888-885-0155 with any questions about your reservation.
We continue to work closely with PenAir, who is leading the response. This page will be updated as we learn more information.
Posted: 4:30 p.m. on Oct. 21, 2019
In the interest of safety, Alaska Airlines and PenAir have temporarily suspended ANC-DUT-ANC operations following the PenAir Flight 3296 incident. Alaska and PenAir are working together to determine a timeline for resuming service to Unalaska, Alaska.
Guests with tickets to or from Dutch Harbor purchased on or before Oct.17 for travel through Oct.28, may call Alaska Airlines at 1-888-885-0155 to request a full refund.
Posted: 11:20 a.m. on Oct. 18, 2019
PenAir has provided an updated statement on Flight 3296.
It is with deep sorrow that we have confirmed that one of our critically injured passengers from PenAir Flight 3296 passed away last night.
“On behalf of PenAir, Ravn Air Group and all our employees throughout the company, I would like to extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to the family and loved ones of our passenger who passed away,” said Dave Pflieger, President RavnAir Group.
Our entire team is devastated by this tragic incident. The thoughts of all 1,300 of our employees are with those who were hurt or affected.
Updates will be provided on an ongoing basis, as soon as more information becomes available.
On Thursday at 5:40 p.m. local time, PenAir Flight 3296 was involved in an incident while landing at Dutch Harbor, Alaska.
Right now, our highest priority is the safety and care of everyone who was onboard the flight. Our hearts are with them, their families and employees at PenAir.
While the aircraft is operated by PenAir and the crew are PenAir employees, this flight was marketed by Alaska Airlines and the passengers are our guests. At this point, we understand 39 passengers and three crew members were onboard. We’re still gathering information about the welfare of those on the flight and the incident itself.
We have established a toll-free hotline for anyone who believes they may have a family member or friend onboard. The telephone number, accessible from the United States and Canada, is 1-888-283-2153. A telephone number that’s accessible from Mexico is 001-877-542-6973.
We will continue to work closely with PenAir, who is leading the response. This page will be updated as we learn more information.
Posted: 10:15 p.m. on Oct.17, 2019
We have established a toll-free hotline for anyone who believes they may have a family member or friend onboard. The telephone number, accessible from the United States and Canada, is 1-888-283-2153. A telephone number that’s accessible from Mexico is 001-877-542-6973.
Posted: 9:30 p.m. on Oct. 17, 2019
PenAir Flight 3296 marketed by Alaska Airlines from Anchorage to Dutch Harbor, Alaska was involved in an incident during landing at 5:40 p.m. local time today.
There are 39 passengers and three crew members onboard. We’re still gathering information about the welfare of those onboard and the incident itself.
PenAir operates the Anchorage-Dutch Harbor service for Alaska with a Saab 2000 aircraft.
Flight 3296 departed Anchorage at 3:15 p.m. local time.
Video: B-roll, aircraft cleaning, cabin air quality
Alice grew up fixing anything and everything around the house alongside the men in her family. She became a licensed aircraft technician before she was old enough to buy a beer.
Surin originally planned to be an aeronautical engineer. But during university, she realized she’d rather do hands-on work maintaining planes than study the math and science behind them.
Charize dreamed of becoming a pilot, but wanted to learn about the nuts and bolts first and has been hooked ever since.
These three women forged diverse paths to Alaska Airlines’ maintenance operation at San Francisco International Airport – all sharing a love for aviation and their craft, making Alaska’s planes safe to fly every day. Today, on International Women’s Day, we’re sharing their stories of working in the maintenance group at Alaska – and celebrating women throughout the company.
Alice, Surin and Charize during a night shift at SFO.
Alice, Surin and Charize are among about a dozen women in the group of 920 aircraft technicians across the airline – in a work force that is 98% male nationwide.* With Alaska’s plans to hire dozens of new aircraft technicians this year, the SFO team hopes more women will join their ranks.
“Working on aircraft always inspires me to challenge myself,” Surin says. “As an aircraft mechanic, I ensure the passengers’ safety and the airworthiness of aircraft. That makes me feel empowered.”
Charize, Alice and Surin.
“Aviation, I love it. It’s the people and airplanes. That’s pretty much it.” – Alice
Throughout her maintenance career, Alice has worked in aviation operations ranging from agriculture to experimental, from cargo to corporate – repairing all kinds of aircraft, from crop dusters to jets. In 2011, she added commercial jets to her repertoire, becoming the first woman hired as a technician at Virgin America. “It opened a whole new world for me,” she says.
Alice.
And while she loves all areas of aviation, she appreciates the culture at Alaska, where she’s worked since 2018. “It takes a certain type of person to be in this career,” she says “You have to have passion, creativity, heart – and be willing to work hard at times. Aviation brings these types of people together.”
Alice credits early mentors with giving her a solid foundation. “I was blessed to have a lot of old-timers who took time to teach me how to approach an airplane,” she says. “They never made me feel different for being a woman. And humbly, I am thankful for that and for giving me that space where I just saw myself as a mechanic, regardless of my gender.”
Now, Alice is taking a new generation under her wing. This month, she’s attending her first Women in Aviation International (WAI) conference, where she hopes to encourage other women interested in maintenance. “I feel like I’m at a place where I could be a mentor,” she says. “Somebody did that for me, and it’s my time to give back.”
Some of her favorite parts about her job: “I like that I’m not limited to only working on one component or part. I get to work on the whole airplane,” she says. And she also loves to travel. She’s been to 28 countries and counting.
I’m excited to see other ladies starting their journey, and if I can help them in any way, it would be a privilege,” she says.
Alice, whose Instagram is @fixandfly, plans to eventually earn her pilot’s license, and she sees a long career ahead fixing planes. “Fixing is something I’m going to be doing the rest of my life,” she says. “And flying is just the best way to get around.”
“Passengers can’t see us working at night, but they trust us. When planes start leaving, they know that they’re safe.” – Surin
Surin has always had a natural affinity for fixing things – and when she realized she could make a career out of it, she decided to move to the U.S. from South Korea to pursue aviation. After graduation from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in 2018, she had several job options, including an offer from Alaska Airlines. “I’m glad I chose Alaska because of their values,” she says. “I feel like we’re always trying to do the right thing and everyone’s living those values.”
Surin says she draws inspiration from other women at the company, including Alice, who helped her navigate the predominantly male workplace when she was starting out. And she hopes to follow in the footsteps of other women who’ve risen through the ranks of maintenance to management, like Constance von Muehlen. “Having Constance as senior vice president of maintenance and engineering really motivates me,” Surin says.
Surin.
Most days when people see her in her Alaska uniform – even people within the company – they assume she’s a flight attendant or customer-service agent. They never guess that she works on planes. “I’m proud to tell them I’m in maintenance,” she says.
When my family or friends are going on an Alaska plane, I can say that this is what I maintained and this is super safe to fly,” she says. “And those kinds of things make me enjoy my work.”
Charize.
“Being in this field. It feels like the world is my playground.” – Charize
Charize got used to being one of a few women in her aircraft-maintenance classes at Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology. “I knew this was such a guy’s world, and I was really nervous in the beginning,” she says. “But in this career, it’s actually better than you’d think. As long as you work hard and let your quality of work be known, everyone will respect you.”
Charize has worked for Alaska since summer 2018. “It’s so rewarding to fix a plane that needs to be fixed, and you know that it’s a go and you’ve made it as safe as possible,” she says.
Charize enjoys the compliments she hears from happy Alaska guests when she’s wearing the company logo. “Alaska is a great team, and it’s a great brand to work for,” she says, encouraging women to check out the job opportunities. “If you love planes and you want to work on them, don’t be scared. I think more girls should definitely be in maintenance.”
Charize doesn’t regret choosing maintenance over pilot training – and points out her job still gives her the opportunity to travel the world. She’s been to the Philippines, Amsterdam and Madrid. This year, she hopes to go to Brazil and Dubai. “I love the freedom – just going wherever I want to go,” she says.
Constance von Muehlen, Alaska’s Senior Vice President for Maintenance and Engineering, discovered her own passion for aircraft technology during seven years serving as a captain and maintenance pilot for Blackhawk helicopters in the U.S. Army. “I enjoyed the puzzle the work presented, the challenges that were always different and that satisfaction you get from resolving those challenges,” she says. ‘It’s a never-ending learning opportunity.”
Alaska hopes more young women will seek out exciting careers as aircraft technicians, von Muehlen says. One hurdle to recruiting young people, especially women, is overcoming stereotypes around what a technician’s job entails. “People realize you work with your hands, but it is also your mind that’s guiding you to what a problem could be. It’s like being a doctor for airplanes,” she says. “This really is a profession of the mind.”
Von Muehlen encourages students to attend events like Alaska’s annual Aviation Day, where they can get a hands-on learning experience from working technicians and better understand the complexity of the jobs. “Not only are there pilots and flight attendants on an airplane, but there are also technicians who are very important partners in keeping everyone safe on that airplane,” she says. “We have a tremendous amount of responsibility in the work that we do.”
#IamAlaska: Voices of women working throughout Alaska Airlines
“Go after your dreams, and follow your gut. But make sure to enjoy the motion as you go through it.” — Aisha, customer service agent, Alaska Airlines
“At work, there is nothing that I can’t do. I try to better myself and push my limits.” — Andrea, ground service agent, Horizon Air
“If you continue to work hard and strive for what you want, you can achieve whatever you want.” — Teal, flight attendant, Horizon Air
Photo by Tina Hong-Sandmel.
“Women have their power in who they are and what they bring to the table. Empowering other women to do that is important.” — Jithmi, senior product manager, Alaska Airlines e-commerce team
“If I could give other women advice, it would be to just be yourself, don’t worry about putting on a facade or anything like that. People will actually love you for just being you.” — Katharine, captain, Alaska Airlines
“Don’t worry about the things you can’t control––focus on the things you can do something about. Find something to enjoy every day.” — Patricia Bedient, Lead Independent Director of the AAG Board of Directors
We’ve been fielding questions from guests and employees alike about air quality onboard our aircraft. While Dr. John Lynch, one of our University of Washington medical experts, has advised coronavirus is not thought to be airborne, our planes are equipped with systems that contain HEPA, or High Efficiency Particulate Air filters. They are the same kind of filters found in hospital operating rooms.
“It’s not a self-contained tube with the same air for a six-hour flight,” said Constance von Muehlen, senior vice president of maintenance & engineering. “The air in a cabin comes from the top and flows out from your feet. In fact, there’s a large portion of air that comes directly from outside. Within a six-minute period you get completely new air in the entire cabin.”
If guests want more filtered air, they can simply open the vent above them. It’s important to note that the flight deck, galley areas, and lavatories get air directly from outside the aircraft. That air also gets directly exhausted outside.
Alaska Airlines has one of the newest fleets in the country which ensures our planes have the latest filtration technology in use. Our filters are changed according to manufacturer guidelines.
Studies have shown due to the frequency of cabin air recirculation, that the air onboard planes can be better than the air found in many office buildings.
Estas son las acciones que estamos tomando para proteger a nuestros pasajeros y empleados
Día a día hay nuevas noticias relacionadas con el coronavirus y la incertidumbre alrededor de esta enfermedad es preocupante. Continuamos trabajando directamente con las autoridades de sanidad y con los líderes de nuestra industria, recibiendo actualizaciones y poniendo en práctica las mejores resoluciones, para asegurar la salud y el bienestar de nuestros pasajeros y empleados.
Avisos regionales
Viajes a Costa Rica
A partir de las 11:59 pm (hora local) /10:59 pm (PT) del 18 de marzo de 2020 hasta el 12 de abril de 2020, únicamente los ciudadanos costarricenses y los residentes podrán ingresar a Costa Rica. Dichas personas serán sometidas a una cuarentena obligatoria de 14 días cuando ingresen al país.
En cumplimiento de las órdenes del gobierno, los demás pasajeros no abordarán.
Se recomienda a los pasajeros que se comuniquen con la Embajada de Costa Rica para obtener más información antes del viaje. Aprende más.
En el avión
Estamos mejorando nuestra limpieza entre vuelos y continuaremos evaluando nuestros procedimientos de limpieza. Esto es adicional a la limpieza regular que efectuamos entre vuelos.
Estamos reduciendo temporalmente el servicio de alimentos y bebidas a bordo. Aprende más.
Temporalmente no volveremos a llenar un vaso que ya se ha utilizado, incluida nuestra primera clase. Alentamos a nuestros pasajeros a #FillBeforeYouFly (llene su botella antes de volar). Esto nos ayudará a reducir nuestros desechos a bordo.
Nuestros sobrecargos posiblemente usen guantes durante nuestro servicio de alimentos y bebidas.
Estamos suspendiendo nuestro servicio de toallas húmedas en Primera Clase.
Estaremos descontinuando la selección de objetos reciclables a bordo, para reducir el contacto con artículos que han sido tocados por los pasajeros. Continuaremos recolectando y reciclando materiales de servicio simple de bebidas (agua y jugo de naranja) en nuestros aviones de Horizon Air.
En algunos vuelos, estaremos removiendo nuestras tabletas de entretenimiento a bordo, excepto en vuelos de y hacia Hawaii y Florida (donde tenemos la demanda más alta), para crear espacio adicional y tener más carritos colectores de basura.
Exhortamos a nuestros pasajeros a viajar con gel desinfectante o toallitas anti-bacteriales, como medida de precaución.
Toallas anti-bacteriales pueden ser usadas para limpiar el descansabrazo y la mesita de servicio.
Nota: El uso de toallas limpiadoras de origen comercial en nuestros asientos de piel pueden deteriorar la capa superficial del asiento. La toalla parecerá estar sucia después de limpiar, pero en realidad es el tinte del color de la piel que se ha desprendido.
En el aeropuerto, nuestras salas VIP y nuestras oficinas corporativas
Estamos abasteciendo gel antibacterial a todos los aeropuertos y oficinas corporativas para ser usado en nuestros salones de descanso, comedores, mostradores de boletos y salas de espera.
En nuestras salas VIP, estamos poniendo pausa inmediatamente al uso de escaneo biométrico de huellas digitales. También hemos removido sillas en áreas de alta densidad y hemos colocado aviso para encauzar la distancia social. Estamos limitando cada localidad a un 50% de su capacidad regular. La capacidad estará anunciada cerca de la entrada a la sala VIP. Read more. (Lea más).
Estamos en constante comunicación con los aeropuertos de las localidades a las que volamos para asegurar la limpieza apropiada de lugares públicos.
Cuidando a nuestros pasajeros.
Estamos ofreciendo opciones de viajes flexibles para nuestros pasajeros que decidan no viajar debido a la preocupación causada por el virus. Vea detalles completos en alaskaair.com.
Basado en recomendaciones de expertos médicos en enfermedades infecciosas, instamos a nuestros pasajeros a no viajar si padecen de algún tipo de enfermedad respiratoria aguda.
No está de más lavarse las manos. El centro de control de enfermedades (CDC) recomienda lavarse las manos por lo menos durante 20 segundos con jabón y agua corriente limpia. Más información en cdc.gov/coronavirus/.
Preguntas y respuestas con expertos en industria de aviación y salud.
Preguntas y respuestas con expertos en industria de aviación:
¿Qué parte de los aviones de Alaska Airlines se limpian después de cada vuelo? Siempre hemos tenido un proceso de limpieza vigoroso en nuestras aeronaves y continuaremos usando desinfectantes que son efectivos para combatir virus y garantizar la seguridad de nuestros pasajeros y empleados. Como una precaución extra, hemos implementado un proceso de limpieza mejorado enhanced aircraft cleaning process entre nuestros vuelos que permanecen en tierra por más de una hora en nuestros centros de operaciones. Estamos enfocando más atención en las áreas de la cabina que son tocadas con más frecuencia como los descansabrazos, cinturones de seguridad, mesitas de servicio, los controles superiores que incluyen las rejillas de ventilación, botones de luz, botones para asistencia y el exterior e interior de las manijas de los baños. Todas las aeronaves que permanecen en tierra toda la noche son limpiadas completamente. Adicionalmente, nuestros equipos están también limpiando el frente y el revés de cada asiento, la pantalla bloqueadora de luz y las manijas de compartimentos de equipaje de mano.– Celley Buchanan, Director of Operations Support Services
¿Alaska Airlines utiliza filtros HEPA en sus rejillas de ventilación de sus aviones? Si es así, ¿Que tan efectivos son y cuantos aviones lo tienen? Si, Todos los aviones de Alaska Airlines usan filtros de Alta Eficiencia de Partículas Aéreas (HEPA, por sus siglas en inglés) como parte de sus sistemas de recirculación de aire. Se cree que los filtros HEPA son efectivos 99.95% o más para remover partículas contaminantes en el aire. A través de una combinación de aire exterior y aire reciclado, el aire en la cabina es completamente reemplazado por nuestro sistema circular de aire aproximadamente cada 2 a 3 minutos. – Constance von Muehlen, Senior Vice President of Maintenance and Engineering
¿Qué medidas está tomando Alaska Airlines para desinfectar sus salas de espera y centros de operaciones? En todos los aeropuertos que servimos, estamos exhortando a nuestros empleados a desinfectar sus areas de trabajo antes y después de laborar, incluyendo las salas de espera, mostradores de registro de vuelos, quioscos, medidores de equipaje y barras. La seguridad de nuestros pasajeros y empleados es nuestra máxima prioridad. Estamos también trabajando en conjunto con nuestros socios a cargo de la limpieza y grupos en los aeropuertos en los que servimos para establecer rondas adicionales para desinfectar las superficies de trabajo. – Wayne Newton, Vice President of Airport Operations & Customer Service
Dentro del brote deCOVID-19 , El aeropuerto internacional Seattle-Tacoma (SEA) anuncio sus medidas adicionales taking extra measures para salvaguardar la salud de sus empleados y pasajeros en sus instalaciones. Estas acciones incluyen el incremento en la frecuencia de la limpieza en las áreas de alto contacto, incluyendo los pasamanos de escaleras eléctricas, los botones de elevadores y los quioscos expedidores de pases de abordar e instalando mas gel desinfectante en los puntos de chequeo de seguridad, puentes de embarque, áreas de abordaje y centros de transportación terrestre.
¿Y qué hay acerca de las salas VIP? Estamos operando con tanta seguridad como nos es posible. Tomando todas las precauciones posibles para reducir la propagación de gérmenes. En las áreas de recepción, hemos puesto en pausa el uso de verificación por medio de huellas digitales y agregamos múltiples envases de gel desinfectante en el mostrador de registro. También le recomendamos que solo muestre su pase de abordar en lugar de darlo a nuestro personal, lo mismo pedimos con los pases que están en los teléfonos inteligentes. En nuestra área de buffet, continuarán viendo a los miembros de nuestro equipo usar guantes. También hemos incrementado la frecuencia con la que limpiamos las superficies con soluciones y toallas desinfectantes. En el buffet, Estamos constantemente reemplazando los utensilios de servicio (especialmente pinzas y cucharas servidoras) y en el bar, solo estamos sirviendo en vasos nuevos. También estamos exhortando a nuestros pasajeros a llenar su botella antes de volar #FillBeforeYouFly. Hemos reducido las torres de agua para prevenir que las botellas personales toquen la parte que dispensa el agua. Como alternativa, les pedimos que usen una de nuestras estaciones de reabastecimiento de agua o dirigirse al bar y llenaremos la botella por usted. – Alex Judson, Lounge Product Manager
Preguntas y respuestas de los expertos en salud:
Sabemos que los filtros HEPA utilizados en los aviones de Alaska Airlines son fuertes y efectivos para filtrar muchos de los patógenos en el aire. ¿El coronavirus flota en el aire? En este momento, no hay evidencia de que el virus flote en el aire y que pueda extender la infección más allá. La información con la que contamos actualmente sobre cómo se propaga el virus que causa la enfermedad por coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19), se basa en gran parte en lo que sabemos sobre coronavirus similares. Se cree que el virus se propaga principalmente de persona a persona.
Entre personas que están en contacto cercano entre sí, (a una distancia de unos 6 pies o 2 metros aproximadamente).
A través de las pequeñas gotas producidas cuando una persona infectada tose o estornuda.
Es posible que una persona pueda contraer el coronavirus al tocar una superficie u objeto que tenga el virus y después se toque la boca, la nariz y posiblemente los ojos, aunque no se cree que esta sea la forma principal de transmisión. Este virus es frágil y no sobrevive mucho tiempo en las superficies.
Si viajo, ¿qué puedo hacer para evitar contagiarme? ¡Esa es una excelente pregunta! Probablemente lo más importante que puede hacer para evitar el contagio mientras viaja, es lavarse bien las manos con frecuencia. Esto es, lavarse las manos no solo antes de comer y después de usar el baño, sino también varias veces durante el día. Otra recomendación muy importante es asegurarse de limpiar todas las superficies que contactamos frecuentemente, como las mesitas de servicio y los descansabrazos.
¿En comparación con el resto de la población, los niños y los adultos mayores son más susceptibles al virus que causa el COVID-19? Todavía tenemos mucho que aprender sobre este virus, pero hasta ahora parece no ser muy perjudicial para los niños. En la mayoría de los adultos sanos, esta infección puede ser muy similar a la gripe. Al mismo tiempo, parece ser mucho más peligroso para los adultos mayores y también para las personas que tienen problemas médicos del corazón, los pulmones y los riñones, así como para quienes sufran de alguna deficiencia inmunológica.
¿Qué tan efectivo es usar máscaras o guantes? El centro de control de enfermedades (CDC), que asesora al país en materia de salud pública, no recomienda el uso de máscaras entre las personas sanas para protegerse de enfermedades respiratorias, incluyendo COVID-19. Solo las personas que están enfermas o presenten síntomas de haber contraído el virus deberán usar las máscaras. Esto con el fin de proteger a otros del riesgo de infectarse. Al igual que las máscaras, no se recomienda el uso de los guantes si la persona no está en contacto directo con sangre o fluidos corporales. Es bien sabido que las personas que a menudo usan guantes no se lavan las manos con la frecuencia debida, que es lo más importante para evitar el contagio del COVID-19, la influenza y muchas otras infecciones.
John Lynch, M.D., M.P.H.,John Lynch, M.D., M.P.H., es un médico certificado y es director de los programas de Control de Infecciones de la Administración de Antibióticos y Salud del Centro Médico Harborview. El Doctor Lynch es también profesor asociado en Medicina, Alergias y Enfermedades Infecciosas de la Universidad de Washington. Obtuvo su M.D. y M.P.H. de la Universidad de Washington y realiza investigaciones sobre infecciones asociadas a la asistencia sanitaria.
Chloe Bryson-Cahn, MD tiene una maestría de la Facultad de Salud Pública de la Universidad de Washington y es graduada de la Facultad de Medicina Lewis Katz de la Universidad Temple. Ella completo su residencia en el Centro Médico de la UCLA y actualmente ejerce en el Centro Médico Harborview en Seattle, WA.
Preguntas más frecuentes acerca de cambios a su viaje:
Para su tranquilidad, ahora le ofrecemos opciones más flexibles para su viaje flexible travel options. Estas incluyen: No hay cargos por cambios o cancelaciones para:
Boletos adquiridos el o antes del 26 de febrero, 2020 con fecha de viaje hasta el 30 de abril, 2020.
Boletos nuevos con fecha de compra entre el 27 de febrero y el 31 de marzo, 2020.
Continuamos trabajando con expertos médicos y con las agencias federales como el centro de control y prevención de enfermedades (CDC) para evaluar nuestros procesos de prevención. También continuamos rastreando y respondiendo todas las preguntas mas frecuentes de la mejor forma posible.
¿Qué opción tengo si utilice millas? Si utilizo millas para comprar su boleto y este se encuentra dentro de nuestra política de viaje flexible one of our flexible travel policies depositaremos las millas en su cuenta de Mileage Plan.
¿Cuánto tarda el depositar las millas de vuelta a mi cuenta? Sus millas estarán disponibles en su cuenta entre 24-48 horas.
¿Qué pasa si use un cupón de acompañante? Si cancela su reservación por completo y esta incluye un cupón de acompañante, le restableceremos su certificado con la fecha de vencimiento original o junio 30, 2020, lo que ocurra mas tarde. Sírvase llamar a nuestro Departamento de Reservaciones para que uno de nuestros agentes le asista con la cancelación de boletos utilizando cupones de acompañante.
¿Qué pasa si compre un boleto no reembolsable en Primera Clase, cabina principal o boleto de premio con millas? Si usted compro un boleto no reembolsable de Primera Clase, Cabina principal o boleto de premio que este dentro de nuestra política de viaje flexible, usted podrá cambiar sin cargochange without fee o cancelar su viaje cancel your trip y depositar el valor de su boleto en la cartera electrónica de su cuenta My Account o recibir un certificado de crédito por la misma cantidad vía email.
¿Qué pasa si compre un boleto con tarifa Saver? Si usted compro una tarifa Saver que este dentro de nuestra política de viaje flexible, usted podrá cancelar su viaje cancel your trip y depositar el valor de su boleto en la cartera electrónica en su cuenta My Account o recibir un certificado de crédito por la misma cantidad via email.
¿Qué hago si ya pagué el cargo por cambio? Si por alguna razón se le cobro el cargo por cambio o cancelación a un viaje que ahora esta dentro de una de nuestras políticas flexibles, sírvase contactar a nuestro Departamento de Reservaciones. Nos encargaremos de que el cargo se envié de vuelta a la forma original de pago.
¿Qué pasa si estoy viajando después del 30 de abril? Para boletos adquiridos el o antes del 26 de febrero, 2020, nuestra política de viaje flexible solo aplica para viajes hasta el día 30 de abril, 2020. Por lo pronto, continuaremos evaluando la situación y haremos los ajustes que sean necesarios.
¿Qué opciones tengo si compre mi boleto con Expedia? ¿O si lo compre con otra agencia de viajes o aerolínea? Si compro su boleto a traves de terceros como Expedia, otra agencia de viajes o con otra aerolínea, contáctelos directamente para que le asistan.
We’ve always had robust cleaning processes on our aircraft and will continue using disinfectants that are effective against viruses. As an extra level of precaution, we’ve implemented an enhanced aircraft cleaning process between our flights that are on the ground longer than an hour at our hubs.
We’re focusing more attention on the areas of the cabin which are touched most frequently:
Arm rests
Seat belts
Tray tables
Overhead controls: air vent, light button, call button
Exterior and interior door handles to lavatories
All of our aircraft that remain on the ground overnight get a thorough cleaning. In addition to what’s mentioned above, our crews also add these areas:
“Every day, we carry essentials such as food, mail and lifesaving items, including crucial medication and medical equipment,” said Rick Bendix, Alaska Air Cargo spokesperson. “Across our network we’re packing our freighters and maximizing cargo in the belly of passenger aircraft to deliver essential goods to our customers throughout our expansive network.”
John Lynch, M.D., M.P.H.,
If guests want more filtered air, they can simply open the vent above them. It’s important to note that the flight deck, galley areas, and lavatories get air directly from outside the aircraft. That air also gets directly exhausted outside.
Chloe Bryson-Cahn, MD tiene una maestría de la Facultad de Salud Pública de la Universidad de Washington y es graduada de la Facultad de Medicina Lewis Katz de la Universidad Temple. Ella completo su residencia en el Centro Médico de la UCLA y actualmente ejerce en el Centro Médico Harborview en Seattle, WA.
