Q

magnifying glass with dark circle in the middle.

California wildfires trigger flight cancellations at Santa Rosa

Posted: 10 a.m. on Nov. 4, 2019

Full operations have resumed into and out of Santa Rosa (STS).

Posted: 1 p.m. on Oct. 30, 2019

The wildfire situation in Sonoma County, California remains dangerous and unpredictable. The Charles M. Schultz-Sonoma County (STS) Airport in Santa Rosa remains closed to commercial air service. All of our flights in and out of Santa Rosa are now canceled through Saturday, Nov. 2. Everyone’s safety remains the top concern. As a reminder, we’ve posted a travel advisory for Santa Rosa on alaskaair.com, which will allow our guests to change or cancel their flight without incurring a fee.

Posted: 12:45 p.m. on Oct. 28, 2019

Dangerous wildfires are once again raging across parts of California. On Sunday, California Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a statewide emergency. We’re most concerned about everyone’s safety and getting out of harm’s way.

The fires are impacting air travel. The Charles M. Schultz-Sonoma County (STS) Airport in Santa Rosa has halted commercial air service due to the nearby Kincade fire.

We have temporarily suspended all of our 18 daily inbound and outbound flights through Thursday, Oct. 31, which includes nonstop service between Santa Rosa and five destinations: Seattle, Portland, Los Angeles, Orange County and San Diego.

In the Los Angeles area, the Getty fire – burning near the famous museum – has triggered mandatory evacuations. At this point, smoke from the fires has not impacted our operations at any of the Southern California airports.

In support of the California communities that are affected by the wildfires, we’ll match up to one million Mileage Plan miles donated by our guests to the Alaska Airlines Disaster Relief Pool.

Alaska Airlines is supporting the initial wildfire relief efforts in California with a $10,000 cash donation to the California Fire Foundation’s SAVE (Supplying Aid to Victims of Emergency) and an additional $5,000 cash donation to the Latino Community Foundation’s Wildfire Relief Fund.

We’ve posted a travel advisory for Santa Rosa on alaskaair.com, which will allow our guests to change or cancel their flight without incurring a fee.

For those with a flight into the Southern California airports, please monitor your flight status regularly on our website. You can also sign up for flight notifications, which allows us to notify you of any last-minute delays, cancellations or gate changes by email or text message.

Stay safe, California.

Plan a perfect leaf peeping trip to New England 

Born and raised in New England, I’ve been surrounded by the most picturesque places during fall at its peak. Luckily for travelers, Alaska Airlines flies directly to/from Boston and New York from various west coast cities such as Los Angeles, Portland, San Francisco and Seattle. From there, the best leaf peeping spots are within reach.

‘Leaf peeping’ is another way to say you’re looking for the best changing of colors in autumn, I swear it’s a thing. Here’s when and where you should go from Boston or New York to leaf peep New England.

Connecticut
West Cornwall Covered Bridge

Connecticut, being the southernmost state, gives leaf peepers a chance to hang on to fall a little longer than most states in New England, well into November.

Towns like Cornwall, Kent and Sharon offer great countryside views of foliage.

If you’re looking to sit back and relax, the Essex Steam Train can take you from Essex to Chester along the Connecticut River while capturing the most spectacular fall views. When you’re ready to head back, you can choose another scenic route by riverboat.

Two ways to fly nearby: Alaska has direct flights to/from Boston Logan International Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport, which are about a two-hour drive to Connecticut.

Photo courtesy of Essex Steam Train
Maine

Maine’s nickname, “Vacationland,” is an understatement. From the mountains to the lakes and coastline, there’s plenty of jaw-dropping fall sceneries to see, especially at Acadia National Park.

For other great glimpses of foliage, I suggest driving Park Loop Road. You’ll see some of the most beautiful spots along the coast and eventually get to Bar Harbor, a coastal town serving up views and legendary lobster.

Acadia National Park is about 4.5 hours north of Boston—the drive up the coast of Maine is worth it, trust me. Best peeping times typically begin mid-September and lasts until mid-October.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts has many great sights to see, from the city of Boston to the Berkshires, a rural region in the western part of the state. The Berkshires are full of mountains, lakes and cozy downtowns like Great Barrington, Pittsfield, or North Adams, creating the perfect fall atmosphere. Each town is close enough to enjoy during a weekend trip.

Looking for the best view? Take a drive up the state’s tallest mountain, Mount Greylock – you won’t be disappointed by the views along the auto road from mid-September to around mid-to-late October. My advice, on the journey west from Boston, stop for drinks and lunch in Northampton, another historic locale.

You’ll need a car to reach most of the locations listed. By using Alaska Airlines Cars, powered by CarTrawler, you can find the best price on car rentals while boosting your Mileage Plan for future trips. Learn how to book your entire trip using Alaska miles. 

New Hampshire

My favorite leaf peeping spot? The Kancamagus Highway hands down. The 34-mile road links North Conway and Lincoln, two classic mountain towns with great shops and restaurants. There are many designated pull-offs where you can safely stop to admire the colors.

Photo by Tucker LaBelle-Hayford

If you’re planning a trip to the Granite State before late October, the Mount Washington Auto Road is an absolute must. It’s an 8-mile drive that leads you to pure beauty at the summit of Mount Washington, the highest peak in New England. The drive is about an hour roundtrip and takes you from an altitude of 1,527 feet to 6,145 feet – roughly 4,618 feet from the starting point.

If the Auto Road is closed for the season, Crawford Notch State Park is another incredible spot to experience fall in New Hampshire that will make you feel like you’re in a movie.

North Conway is about 2.5 hours north of Boston. 

Lower Falls Trail, Kancamagus Highway
Rhode Island

It may be the smallest state in the country, but visiting Rhode Island’s coastline is a big deal. In the fall, especially, oceanfront towns like Newport become prime locations to see the season’s change.

Castle Hill Lighthouse – Newport, Rhode Island

My advice: Pack up the car and head down Ocean Drive to see the leaves, ocean and historic mansions from the late 19th century. Need some snacks for the road? Stop by Sweet Berry Farm in nearby Middletown; they have pumpkin patches and apple cider doughnuts galore, a New England staple in the fall.

Newport is only 1.5 hours south of Boston.

Vermont

Before Vermont turns into a winter wonderland for skiers, nearly the entire state changes color. While Burlington, a vibrant, small city located along the shoreline of Lake Champlain, is an obvious choice for leaf peeping, Stowe is a quaint mountain town nearby with no shortage of fall activities. If the leaves leave you wanting to satisfy your sweet tooth, the original Ben & Jerry’s ice cream factory is less than 15 minutes from Stowe.

Woodstock is another excellent spot to have an authentic New England fall experience. You’ll find shops selling every maple-flavored thing you can think of and farm-to-table restaurants.

Trees across the region start turning from a luscious green to a fiery mix of yellow, orange and red starting in mid-September through the first two to three weeks in October and vary by elevation, progressing from north to south.

Woodstock is about two hours northwest of Boston, while Burlington and Stowe are an additional hour north.

Don’t miss out on leaf peeping this year, book your flight today!

Video: How this community college is preparing students for careers in aviation (PBS)

In Bend, Oregon, Central Oregon Community College is preparing students for careers in aviation, where they spoke with Assistant Chief & Aviation Program Coordinator Bryan McKune, who is also the Manager of Pilot Development at Alaska Airlines. According to Boeing, 800,000 new pilots will be needed worldwide over the next 20 years. To resolve this critical need, students like Beverly Taylor are cultivating their own career success. PBS Special correspondent Cat Wise reports.

Video:

Original story aired on PBS NewsHour on October 22, 2019.

Meet our “picture perfect” Customer Service Legend, Darwin Johnson

For several years, Darwin Johnson was known around Alaska Airlines as “the man on the First Class signs.” During that time, the smiling face of this affable Customer Service Agent, who has trained thousands of other agents over a 35-year career at the airline, was literally the picture of an Alaska CSA.

“For some reason, they wanted to take my photo,” Johnson recalls. “So then I was on signs for First Class across the system.”

The self-effacing Johnson, who has since modeled articles of clothing for Alaska’s new-uniform tests, says that he used to get a lot of good-natured teasing for being a poster boy.

“It was fine,” he says with a laugh. “But I didn’t mind when they took those cards down.”
The truth is that Johnson is widely appreciated by his peers and supervisors as an exemplary employee. He is beloved for his expertise as a CSA, his emphasis on safety procedures, and his calm and positive approach to training.

Designated Trainer Customer Service Agent Darwin Johnson

Growing up in Tacoma, south of Seattle, Johnson began his career at Boeing as a machinist. He eventually decided to work at an airline because he loved travel, and he found his calling in customer service, working at Alaska as a reservations sales agent for three years before becoming a CSA. About 25 years ago, he also became a trainer and has thrived in this role, as a natural teacher and mentor.

“Darwin is welcoming and always willing to help,” says Donna Olson, Manager of Seattle Station Training. “Engaging with empathy and compassion, he’s kind, funny, and makes everyone, from new hires to leadership, feel valued.”

The appreciation co-workers feel for Johnson was evident last year, when he underwent a kidney transplant and there was an outpouring of support as he recovered. Amazingly, Johnson had even chosen to work while undergoing dialysis. It was one more instance of this agent being the picture of dedication. —Ben Raker

Questions & answers

What do you like most about your job?
It’s always the people—customers and co-workers. If I can help them in any situation, I do. That’s what keeps me going.

How do you define good service?
Helping guests and co-workers and being able to fix their problems.

What is your best job advice?
Build relationships with people so they can be comfortable coming to you. And treat customers the same as you would your friends and family.

What do you like to do outside of work?
I like golf when I can fit it in. I also love listening to music: bebop and heavy jazz.

Where have you enjoyed traveling?
I like the Caribbean. Or Maui. Or Europe. Or South America. Also, my wife and I have a son in Arizona and a daughter in Houston. We try to get there when we can.

Kudos from Darwin’s co-workers

“Darwin brings his whole self to work and is always willing to stay and help out when needed by new hires or the station.” —Karen W., Manager, Policies and Procedures, Seattle

“He’s a wealth of information, and he was always willing to teach me or show me how to do something if I didn’t know. No matter what your question is, he will drop what he is doing to help you. You can always go to him for help. He has the patience of a saint.” —Jake G., Flight Attendant, Seattle

“Darwin is Mr. Alaska Airlines, Superman, teacher and mentor, all wrapped up in one great package. He is known all over the system. He has a contagious smile and laugh. All agents, new and old, love him.” —Alana C., CSA, Seattle

“I always felt that in Darwin there was the co-worker/friend you could count on to do the right thing in any situation. It has truly been a pleasure working with this amazing man!”
—Sheryl D., Supervisor, Employee Onboarding, Seattle

Alaska Airlines employees such as Darwin Johnson are the reason for our excellence. Join us in creating an airline people love. Visit careers.alaskaair.com.

Watch how Alaska employees surprised kids at Mary’s Place, part of our Week of LIFT

A roar of excitement filled the inside of Mary’s Place, a nonprofit in King County that provides safe, inclusive shelter services for women and families, on Friday afternoon while children and teens were surprised with a brand-new playroom and study space filled with games, bean bag chairs and a fresh coat of paint.

The event was part of Alaska Airlines’ initiative to make flying matter during our companywide week of giving back to the communities we serve, called the Week of LIFT. More than 700 Alaska employees volunteered at over 20 events in nine cities across the United States.

Francis Kelly with her 1-year-old son at Mary’s Place | Photo by Alan Alabastro

Some of the volunteer events included serving at local food banks, teaching classes and participating in outdoor cleanups through organizations like KUPU in Honolulu, New York Cares in New York City, Covenant House in Anchorage, Reading Partners in the Bay Area and Mary’s Place in Seattle.

“I’m shocked, I’m excited for my son and for all these little kids to have something to play with, this is a very big difference,” said Francis Kelly, a Mary’s Place guest. “We don’t know what it’s like to be home. So, for these kids to have a place to play is happiness for us.”

Linda Mitchell, the chief communications officer of the family shelter, said their mission is to have no child sleep outside — and give them the chance to play like a regular kid. For 20 years, Mitchell said all eight shelters located across the greater Seattle region have kept women, children and families together, inside and safe when they have no place else to go.

“We have truly cherished our relationship with our hometown airline over the years,” said Marty Hartman, executive director of Mary’s Place. “Funding, sponsorships, and volunteer projects like the ‘Week of LIFT’ are transformative for Mary’s Place, and our families.”

Watch the big reveal:

Video by Randy Eng

“We are so grateful to be included in this special week of giving and to the amazing volunteers who brightened our spaces, added toys and furniture for our Kids Club and Teen Rooms to remind families that they are not forgotten and our community cares about them,” said Hartman. “You all are bringing so much love and hope – what an incredible gift!”

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

We know getting involved makes a difference.

Giving back is part of who we are. From the beginning, serving people and our communities has defined us. Driven by our incredible employees, Alaska and Horizon have a legacy of thinking long-term, taking care of each other, giving back to the communities we serve, and flying greener.

“It’s about people — the people who make up our workplaces and this place we call home.” -excerpt from Puget Sound Business Journal Opinion: Corporate responsibility isn’t all corporate — it’s about people and community by Diana Birkett Rakow, VP Alaska Airlines External Relations

Named after the core principle of motion, LIFT allows us to fly, taking people where they need to go. “Where someone needs to go” isn’t always a destination city–it could be a community center, a school or shelter–you name it. We’re always looking to new ways to inspire our guests and to help those around them.

Want to get involved?

Here are few ways you can join us in making an impact:

Learn more about Alaska Airlines’ LIFT program and read the 2018 Sustainability Report. Follow our efforts @AlaskaAir, tag us with the hashtag #makingflyingmatter or #iflyalaska.

Opinion: Corporate responsibility isn’t all corporate — it’s about people and community (Puget Sound Business Journal)

Adapted from a column originally published in the Puget Sound Business Journal on October 21, 2019.

By Diana Birkett Rakow, Alaska Airlines Vice President of External Relations

Open up the newspaper today, and you’ll find countless articles and opinion pieces on the role of a company – especially in times of growth. Is it jobs and innovation? Products that help people’s lives? Or is there a broader responsibility — to help solve challenging policy issues and enable the solutions? Or is the answer really “all of the above”?

The Business Roundtable waded into the conversation a couple of months ago, with a statement redefining the purpose of a corporation to promote “an economy that serves all.”

Media forums including the PSBJ’s Grow Seattle Conference have also been talking a lot about growth recently. There’s a lot of it here in the Seattle region, and some debate whether that’s a good thing. And while that growth creates some challenges, it also enables the resources to support and address them — Amazon providing a home for Mary’s Place families inside a new downtown building, Microsoft committing $500 million to affordable housing, Dick’s Burgers creating jobs and career pathways for local youth, REI advancing equity in the ability to get outdoors.

Many of us learned the concept of responsibility early, and for many it is a core value: responsibility to our families, loved ones, neighbors, colleagues, employer, and community. I’d argue it is and should be the same for companies — a core value, derived from the people who make us who we are. A way of life, not a program and not lived through a report.

Having worked in both public and private sectors, I appreciate the cultural traits that Alaska Airlines derived from its inception serving small communities across Alaska. It’s a sense that everything is connected and that we all are here to serve.

This week, hundreds of Alaska employees are out in the community, from New York to Seattle to Hawaii, to serve through our “Week of LIFT.” The program is named after the core principle of motion that allows us to fly, taking people where they need to go. And we know that “where someone needs to go” isn’t always a destination city. Sometimes it’s community, opportunity, or seeing a path to the future.

In Seattle, Alaska Airlines volunteers deep clean, organize, do yard work and prep meals for homeless families at Mary’s Place. They serve food at Farestart’s Guest Chef Night, pack food at Northwest Harvest, help keep Tacoma’s water clean on Orca Recovery Day, and create and organize LEGO League kits for FIRST Washington youth education programs.

[inset]

At the end of the day, “corporate responsibility” is not just “corporate.” It’s about people and our responsibility to each other, those inside our companies and those around us. We can and should use economic lift to improve lives, enable opportunity, and share the benefits.

Businesses’ ability to give back in these ways, though, is directly connected to economic growth when we think long term. This work benefits from an environment that enables a vibrant and diverse business community sustaining into the future, enabling growth that works for all.

As a region, it’s incumbent on us to find this balance. It’s not about an annual report, though those are worth a read. It’s about people — the people who make up our workplaces and this place we call home.

Meet Flight Attendant Marcie Peterson: “An oasis of calm” and Customer Service Legend

The burly 30-something guest seated at the back of the plane seemed to be trembling during aircraft boarding in Seattle. Flight attendant Marcie Peterson slid into the empty seat next to him and asked how he was doing. “I’m so afraid of flying,” said the guest, a server for a prominent Seattle restaurant. She reassured him and kept checking on him during the flight. As the grateful guest deplaned, he invited her to visit the restaurant “any time.”

Flight attendants are “an oasis of calm” for guests, says Peterson, who has been with Alaska Airlines for nearly 30 years. “They see you are calm, and they know you also have a family and kids, and you wouldn’t be here if you were concerned, and they realize it’s all right.”

She likes to converse and make a connection with everyone she can on each flight. “I value every guest, and I want to make the flight fun and positive and memorable,” she says. “We get each moment in life only once, and since we’re going to have this time on the plane together, why not make it happy and fun?”

She is also known for always smiling, a reputation she cherishes. “Six years ago, I was in a bicycle accident and felt I had lost my face from the nose down. They didn’t know if they’d be able to reconstruct everything. I’m so grateful I have a smile and that I’m able to share it with other people,” she says.

She also shares her compassion, such as regularly making sandwiches for the homeless, helping people recovering from addiction, and leaving snacks and pop in a cabinet outside her home for postal carriers and delivery people.

She had wanted to be a flight attendant since she was a young girl, she says, and as soon as she was eligible to apply, at age 21, she sent a handwritten application letter to Alaska, her hometown Seattle-based airline. “I’m still pinching myself that I get to do this. I wanted to work for the best airline. When you get to say you fly for Alaska Airlines, it feels good.” —M. Dill

Questions & answers

What do you like about your job? There is so much variety, and the people I work with are really good people—there’s camaraderie. I also have the opportunity to make a difference for guests every day. I’ve used our safety training to do CPR and bring someone back to life. That was an amazing and fulfilling moment.

What’s important to you in life? My husband and our two kids, and helping others. I love Martin Luther King Jr.’s quote, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” For my 50th birthday, I invited people to do 50 easy acts of kindness, from a list of 80, over six months. I did them all first so I could provide photos and how-to.

What advice do you have for employees about how to succeed at Alaska Airlines? “Enjoy moments! Our industry gives us the unique opportunity to make daily heartfelt connections. Alaska Airlines encourages each of us to embrace the responsibility of providing positive memories to our customers and peers. Make your joy contagious and your efforts palpable. It is so satisfying to witness when happiness becomes infectious.”

What do you like to do for recreation? Long-distance backpacking. I’ve hiked in remote areas of India, and in Thailand and Laos, and the 165 miles of the Tahoe Rim Trail in the mountains around Lake Tahoe.

Kudos from Marcie’s co-workers

“Marcie Peterson is remarkable. She leaves a positive impression on everyone. She inspires and encourages others—guests and colleagues. Working with her and other dedicated flight attendants has been a highlight of my career. She shines inside and out, and is truly a legend.” —Tom R., Inflight Supervisor, Seattle

“Whenever I’ve flown with her over the past 29 years—and I can speak for many others who have flown with her—she’s always had a smile on her face, whether she was having a good day or a bad day. She smiles at guests; she smiles at co-workers, at pilots, at everyone. And she just makes the mood of the aircraft and the mood of the flight upbeat. She makes everyone feel at ease.” —Yasmin V., Flight Attendant, Seattle

“On each one of her flights, she makes every person feel special, from children to our top MVP Gold 75K guests. I’m so thankful I know her.” —Vicki L., Customer Service Agent (retired), Seattle

Alaska Airlines employees such as Marcie Peterson are the reason for our excellence. Join us in creating an airline people love. Visit careers.alaskaair.com.

How Alaska’s internships show students they can be whoever they want to be

During her junior year of high school, Kamia Bradley had the fleeting thought of becoming an airline pilot. She didn’t know where to start but thought it seemed like a cool job.

Growing up in Denver, sometimes with no heat or having to sleep on the floor, it was tough to see a better horizon. Until one day, through a leadership program at her high school, Bradley had her first flying experience in the seat of a helicopter. The pilot flew over her neighborhood, a place she describes as uninviting and neglected but something changed when she was up there.

“Seeing my home from above, and how it connected to the rest of the city and beautiful scenery, gave me a new perspective of the world,” Bradley said. “Being up there made me feel like I could do anything.”

Kamia Bradley with Alaska Airlines First Officer Kim Ford. (Photo courtesy of Kamia Bradley)

Bradley learned about a local flight program and the Amelia Earhart Foundation, which, with her hard work, helped her obtain her private pilot’s license. Bradley is now a senior at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, Arizona, where she studies aeronautical science and recently spent her summer in Seattle as a flight operations intern at Alaska Airlines.

Before interning at Alaska, Bradley discovered Alaska’s pledge to increase our African American female pilots by 2025 and support the path to inspire more young women to become pilots.

Alaska Airlines Base Chief Pilot Ronald Limes and Flight Operations intern Kamia Bradley. (Photo courtesy of Kamia Bradley)

“I thought it was pretty awesome that a company was looking for people just like me,” Bradley said.

Interns at Alaska join teams throughout different departments such as Maintenance and Engineering, Marketing and so on. Interns work on visible projects that impact our guests and business. Beyond hands-on experience, interns also get the opportunity to network with employees and company leaders. Learn more about our internship opportunities. The application window for 2020 internships opens Friday, Oct. 11.

This summer, 34 college interns were hired at Alaska and Horizon Air to work in Portland and Seattle.

“We’re committed to developing future leaders in aviation and beyond. Our internship program is a great way we get to connect with young people from all backgrounds and look forward to offering them a firsthand experience in the aerospace world. We look forward to adding fresh thinking, big ideas and eagerness to learn to our Alaska family,” said Andy Schneider, Alaska Airlines senior vice president of people.

During Bradley’s internship, she spent time with Captain Tara Wright, who made history alongside three other female pilots who were part of Alaska’s first all-female, African American pilot crew.

Over the summer, Bradley flew on a flight piloted by Wright from Los Angeles to Seattle and met up afterward for dinner.

Alaska Flight Operations intern Kamia Bradley with her mentor, Captain Tara Wright, at Alaska Airlines. (Photo courtesy of Kamia Bradley)

“That was the first time seeing a black woman fly other than myself,” said Bradley. “It was one of the best experiences ever.”

In addition to creating meaningful connections this summer, Bradley visited 17 destinations where we fly, spanning from Bristol Bay, Alaska to Washington D.C.

Interns are able to fly unlimited using standby travel on Alaska Airlines during their internship. That means many weekends are filled with jet setting across the country.

Lauren Hardwood, an Alaska Airlines summer 2019 technology training intern and University of Washington student, says her favorite trip was traveling with her sister to San Francisco.

Lauren Hardwood, Alaska Airlines summer 2019 technology training intern at the end of her internship on presentation day with her mentor Quinton Rosencrans, loyalty analyst at Alaska Airlines. (Photo by Tina Hong-Sandmel)

“We just went for a day, and it was super fun just to fly in,” she said. “We walked around, and went to Pier 39, Fisherman’s Wharf, biked up to the Golden Gate Bridge, had a picnic at Painted Ladies and then took a flight home that night.”

While in her internship, Hardwood planned and coordinated technology classes and events like a Microsoft 365 training for all Alaska employees and a women in technology event.

Harwood says it was a great learning experience.

“There’s so much that goes into a flight from start to finish, and you don’t really realize that until you’re here,” she said. “Every day you learn something new.”

Apply for a summer 2020 internship:
  • Paid college internships are open to undergraduate students with an expected graduation date between December 2020 and June 2021
  • Internships are 12 weeks in Seattle or Portland, Oregon; interns work full time (40 hours/week) and start their internship between late May and mid-June
  • The application window for summer 2020 internships is open Oct. 11 through Oct. 21 at alaskaair.jobs
  • Check out alaskaair.jobs for current opportunities at Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air.

Pioneering Alaska flight crew to aspiring pilots: Let your passion soar

Excerpted from the September/October 2019 issue of Aloft, the magazine of The Museum of Flight. Do you know a middle school girl interested in exploring aviation and aerospace? Sign up for Amelia’s Aero Club at the Museum of Flight.

How do you become a pilot? The best way to find out is to ask one – or better yet, talk with two.

First Officer Mallory Cave and Captain Tara Wright are the first all-women, Black female crew working at Alaska Airlines. They recently took time to share their experiences, explaining that the path to becoming a pilot is not always linear, and the aviation industry still has work to do to reach gender and racial equity. Cave and Wright say pilots benefit from building a support network to lean on when things are difficult – relationships that can last a lifetime – and they see aviation as a rewarding career with exciting changes on the horizon.

Growing up, Cave knew she wanted a job that would be fun and different. “I did always dream of having a job that I enjoyed doing every single day,” she says. “I loved flying as a passenger and one day in high school I thought, ‘I wonder what it’s like up front, to actually fly the airplane?’ ”

But she found the process of becoming a pilot challenging at the outset. “One of the toughest times was initially, when I was going through pilot training,” Cave says. “The flight instructors weren’t enthused to fly any extra days with me, although they would fly extra days with the guys. I kept trying to get someone to fly [with me] so that I could get ahead. I got nowhere.” Cave became the first African American woman to earn a degree in aviation flight from Ohio University.

[inset]

As she entered the workforce, she continued to see similar inequalities. “In all of my pilot new hire classes, I was the only female as well as the only African American,” Cave says. “The guys in my class would all gather and study together. They would never extend the invitation to me, I had to invite myself to those study groups. I knew I couldn’t do it on my own, there was no time to be shy or reserved.”

Wright, who has been flying since 1993, considered many career possibilities before deciding to become a pilot. She remembers visiting the airport with her family: “My dad would ask me what kind of airplane it was, and we’d make up stories about where in the world it was headed,” Wright says. “The best part was getting to see the reunions people had with friends and loved ones.”

Wright acknowledges that being a part of the first all-female African American flight crew for Alaska is a big milestone, and it would have been impossible without role models and support. “We’ve achieved this only because of the women that have come before us: Bessie Coleman, Patrice Clark-Washington and other aviatrixes who have paved the way,” she says. “Our grandmothers and mothers instilled a sense of confidence that we can do whatever we want with our lives.”

Wright did not set out to become a pioneer, but became one nonetheless: “As one of only an estimated 150 African American female pilots in the United States, I have racked up a few firsts,” Wright says. “I view each one as a major accomplishment in a world where it often seems most everything has been done.”

And now, the need for pilots is greater than ever. A 2016 report from the Boeing Company predicts that 42 percent of the pilots flying with major airlines in the U.S. will retire in the next 10 years. The Museum of Flight wants to ensure that the talent pool for these and other aviation jobs is a diversified one. The nonprofit is on a mission to provide world-class STEM education to youth in our community. Using the lens of aviation and aerospace, the museum offers programs from pre-kindergarten through high school. These include Connections, a free youth educational membership for students ages 5 to 18; Amelia’s Aero Club, designed to inspire middle school girls in the exploration of STEA2M (Science, Technology, Engineering, Aviation, Art and Mathematics); and the Michael P. Anderson Program, designed to inspire middle school youth from throughout Washington state to participate in the museum’s education programs while being mentored by professionals of color in the aerospace and aviation industries. For all of its education programs, the museum places a special emphasis on recruiting those who are currently underrepresented in STEM fields: girls, students of color, and those from low-income and rural communities.

And thanks to companies like Alaska Airlines, which supports The Museum of Flight’s Aerospace Education Center, students of all ages can explore aerospace inventions, STEM activities and new technology. The future of aerospace is being written today, and The Museum of Flight offers the tools needed to succeed.

Other organizations offering resources to increase diversity in aviation include the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals, Sisters of the Skies and Women in Aviation. This year Alaska signed a pledge with Sisters of the Skies to increase the number of female African American pilots by 2025.

So, what does it take to become a pilot? “Insert yourself! Donʼt try and do it all on your own. Surround yourself with people and mentors in the aviation industry you feel comfortable confiding in,” Cave says. “If you are passionate about aviation, that passion will drive you to become successful.”

With the high demand for pilots and aviation professionals in the coming years, it’s the perfect time to learn what it takes to earn your wings. “Today, kids excited about being airline pilots have the wind at their backs,” Wright says. “The worldwide market is expanding rapidly. What took me 30 years to accomplish, it might take someone just starting out just half the time.”

How many characters can you spot on our newest Pixar-themed plane?

Our latest special paint scheme is Pixar-perfect.

Starting today, guests will start enjoying flights on our Pixar-themed Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Its playful design includes some familiar faces and magical places from the Toy Story animated film series spanning both sides of the plane.

They’re all heading to Pixar Pier, a reimagined land at Disney California Adventure Park at the Disneyland Resort.

Can you spot the pieces of Pixar?

Sheriff Woody: Andy’s favorite pull string cowboy toy is certainly reaching for the sky on our plane – let’s hope his hat doesn’t fly off.

Buzz Lightyear: The evil Emperor Zurg is no match for this Space Ranger of Star Command who’s in between the tail and his friends. To infinity and beyond!

Jessie: The yodeling cowgirl can be spotted wrangling in her pals at the tip of the tail.

Rex: Look closely! You’ll spy the green head of Tyrannosaurus Rex peeking in the window near our plane’s front door. He’s there to say hell-roar to our guests!

Aliens: It’s a bird, it’s a claw … no, it’s an alien strapped to a rocket on our winglet! These identical toys, prizes from an arcade game at the fictional Pizza Planet restaurant, are painted on both winglets.

Luxo ball: It’s the ball that has enjoyed a roll in a number of Pixar movies, most notably ‘Toy Story,’ and the ‘Luxo, Jr.’ short. It sits at the tip of our plane’s nose.

Pixar Pier: It’s a sign. Pixar Pier is the latest reimagined land to explore at Disney California Adventure Park. There you’ll see beloved Pixar characters come to life from the Incredibles Park, Inside Out Headquarters to the Pixar Promenade and Toy Story Boardwalk.

Itinerary must-dos:

  • Looking for your own Bullseye? Don’t miss out on attractions such as the Incredicoaster, Jessie’s Critter Carousel and Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind.
  • Stomach starting to sound like Rex? Grab a bite to eat at Lamplight Lounge and Adorable Snowman Frosted Treats.
  • Want to wrangle goodies like Bo Peep and her sheep? Check out Bing Bong’s Sweet Stuff and Knick’s Knacks.

A terrific friendship

This is our sixth paint scheme celebrating Disneyland Resorts. It’s called “Friendship and Beyond at Disneyland Resort.” The inaugural flight flew from Seattle, with a stop in San Francisco for a gate ceremony and then onto its final destination in Orange County (my guess, next stop: Pixar Pier).

“There’s nothing better than landing happy on the way to The Happiest Place on Earth,” said Natalie Bowman, Alaska Airlines’ managing director of brand marketing and advertising. “The Disneyland Resort is one of our signature West Coast friendships, and we love that we can celebrate Pixar Pier by taking these iconic characters on a brand-new adventure.”

The magic behind the paint:

The exterior of the plane required more than 2,800 work hours over 24 days using more than 50 gallons of paint — in 44 primary colors and custom shades — to completely repaint the aircraft with the vibrant new livery.

Watch the Pixar Pier-themed plane come to life:

You can always book a trip to Southern California to visit Disneyland Resort (or hundreds of other destinations) at alaskaair.com.

Reach for the sky!

Condé Nast Traveler names Alaska “Best U.S. Airline”

It’s a huge honor to be recognized as “Best U.S. Airline” at any time––but two years in a row? We’re thankful to flyers for choosing Alaska, over and over again.  

Today, Condé Nast Traveler named us “Best U.S. Airline” in their 2019 Readers’ Choice Awards. The award is especially significant because it’s based on the ratings of more than 600,000 readers who shared feedback about their recent travel experiences.  

We’re constantly pushing ourselves to be better. Remaining at the top means staying focused on giving you what you want. We work hard to provide you with a remarkable onboard experience from bigger overhead bins and assigned seating to free texting and movies, seatback power and a fresh West Coast-inspired menu. Aircraft makeovers are underway to appeal to modern travelers and we’re in the process of launching high-speed satellite internet to our mainline fleet.  

With our award-winning loyalty program, you earn a mile for every mile you fly, meaning you get free flights faster and more complimentary upgrades for our most frequent flyers.  

What really differentiates us is the care we provide our guests. We have a passion for delivering remarkable service and going the extra mile, time and time again. Our people take great care of you at every moment of your journey, from booking your travel to arriving at your destination.  

“I’m unbelievably proud of our remarkable people. This award is a direct reflection of our values and the tremendous care our employees put into serving you every day,” said Ben Minicucci, Alaska’s president and chief operating officer. “From all of us at Alaska, thank you for flying with us and for sharing what you love about travel.”  

As our guests, you’re the heart of our business, and we’re always striving to give you the best possible experience. Thanks for flying Alaska!  

Want to share in the #BestAirline2019 celebration with us? Follow and retweet @AlaskaAir. 

Book your entire trip using Alaska miles

Today’s frequent-flyer programs don’t stop paying out rewards after you’ve landed. In fact, you can keep earning miles on the go with Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan™. The airline has partners who will help you with great deals on hotels, car rentals and even pet care, making Alaska your one-stop shop for booking travel.

Hotels

Every passenger needs a place to stay after arrival. That’s why Alaska has partnered with Rocketmiles to create the airline’s own hotel booking portal. Earn between 500 and 10,000 miles per night when you book through Alaska Airlines Hotels. That’s right: over ten thousand miles. You can earn thousands of miles at more than 400,000 properties around the world. You may even earn more miles than you redeemed for the award flight that took you there.

And if your account balance is already looking healthy, you can choose to redeem miles for a free or discounted hotel stay. Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® cardholders get a preferred rate so they can save by redeeming fewer miles.

 

Rental Cars

Next, check out Alaska Airlines Cars. This service, powered by CarTrawler, will search through every major brand to find the best price on rentals. When booking through select Mileage Plan partner suppliers, you can earn miles to boost your Mileage Plan account. You can even filter the results to find hybrid vehicles. Depending on the supplier, you might pay in advance or at the counter when you pick up your car, but most suppliers offer free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, just in case things change.

 

Pet-care

Finally, you need a plan to make sure your pets are well taken care of while you’re away. Rover provides several pet-care solutions, whether you’re at work or on the road. Services include walks, day care, overnight care and more. As an Alaska Mileage Plan member, you earn 3 miles per dollar plus a $30 credit when you complete your first booking, and then 1 mile per dollar after that.

If you want to take your pets with you, Rover can help there, too. Get information on local pet sitters around the country so you can enjoy a night out while leaving your pet in safe hands. Just remember to visit alaskaair.com to get information on Alaska’s pet-travel policies.

Fly Smart, Land Happy

With hotel, car rental and pet care solutions, in addition to great inflight service, Alaska Airlines is committed to helping you enjoy your trip, wherever you’re heading. Explore all of the Mileage Plan partners online so you can continue earning and redeeming miles for bigger rewards.

The Alaska Airlines credit card is issued and administered by Bank of America, N.A. Visa and Visa Signature are registered trademarks of Visa International Service Association and are used by the issuer pursuant to license from Visa U.S.A. Inc.

Loading...