Category Archives: Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines retires the Airbus A320

Alaska Airlines is gradually getting back to “Proudly All Boeing” as it was before the Virgin America takeover and merger.

The airline operated its last Airbus A320 revenue flight on January 9, 2023. Nine Airbus A320s were retired by Alaska on this day.

The aircraft are being ferried to Victorville, CA for storage.

The last A320 revenue flight was operated with the pictured Airbus A320 N849VA.

Above Copyright Photo: Alaska Airlines Airbus A320-214 N849VA (msn 4991) SEA (Michael B. Ing). Image: 959872.

The final scheduled flight, according to Flightaware, operated with N849VA was flight AS1196, which departed Seattle/Tacoma (SEA) at 8:22 pm (2022) and arrived in Los Angeles LAX at 11:16 pm (2316) on January 9.

Top Copyright Photo: Alaska Airlines Airbus A320-214 N849VA (msn 4991) SEA (Brian Worthington). Image: 959871.

Alaska Airlines aircraft photo gallery (Airbus):

 

Alaska Airlines plans to hire more than 3,500 employees in 2023

Alaska Airlines has announced plans to hire more than 3,500 new employees this year in a variety of roles and functions.

From maintenance technicians to contact center agents, flight attendants to pilots, customer service agents to software engineers, we will have jobs available for anyone who wants to be part of our team.

Most of the new jobs are based at our hubs in Seattle and Portland, as well as locations up and down the West Coast. Benefits like the ability to work from home and flexibility of schedules are also available with some roles. Many of the positions do not require previous airline experience, so it’s the perfect time to try a new career. The openings will be posted at careers.alaskaair.com throughout the year.

Here’s a look at the approximate number of new hires for each role we’ll be looking to fill this year.

Position

Alaska

Pilots

550

Flight Attendants

1,000

Customer Service Agents

1,000

Ramp Service Agents

100

Contact Center Agents

240

Maintenance Technicians

135

Management

500

Total

3,525

Top Copyright Photo: Alaska Airlines Airbus A321-253N WL N924VA (msn 7942) LAX (Michael B. Ing). Image: 959865.

Alaska AIrlines aircraft photo gallery:

Freezing rain impacting SEA/PDX travel

Alaska AIrlines issued this weather advisory for Seattle/Tacoma and Portland, OR:

WEATHER UPDATE: Freezing rain and snow are causing icy conditions in the Portland and Seattle regions, which has significantly impacted our operations Friday.  All Alaska and Horizon flying into and out of Portland has been canceled until noon Pacific Time on Dec. 23. In Seattle, we’re thinning our schedule significantly throughout the morning hours to allow additional time to deice aircraft. We’ve canceled 270 flights scheduled to operate in Portland and Seattle on Friday, with additional cancellations and delays expected if the weather doesn’t improve.

Capt. Bret Peyton, a 22-year Alaska pilot, explains what freezing rain is and why it’s so challenging to our operation. Read more here.

Winter weather advisories are in place for Seattle and Portland, which may impact travel for pets and unaccompanied minors. Due to winter weather, flexible travel policies are in place for travel to/from Seattle (SEA) and Portland (PDX) and a number of Midwest and Northeast airports.

Updated @ 12:00 AM PT on 12/23.

Generally, freezing rain is more challenging than snow and causes airline operations to slow down significantly or even halt completely until weather conditions improve.  Aircraft must be completely clear of ice or snow to maintain the aerodynamic integrity and be safe for flight. It generally takes longer to clear an aircraft of ice than it does to clear it of snow.

While it is never our goal to disrupt someone’s flight, especially around the holidays, the safety of our guests and employees is our highest priority. If you are traveling this week, we encourage you to check the status of your flight before heading to the airport and take advantage of our flexible travel waiver, which has been extended and now includes Portland and Seattle, to rebook your travel.

Here’s what to do if your flight is impacted and a look at our strategy to fly in winter weather:

Should your flight cancel, you can rebook your trip online or on Alaska’s app

If your flight is impacted for any reason, you should receive a notification from our team and an accommodation on a new flight. If you need to make further changes, you can use our app or go online to rebook your travel.

Should you wish to hold the value of your ticket(s) and decide to move your trip to a future date, you may place the value of your ticket in your Mileage Plan Wallet for future use or request a full refund by viewing our refund options.

Take advantage of our flexible travel waiver

Sometimes things like winter weather force you to adjust your travel plans. In those instances, we have a flexible travel policy you can use to waive the difference in the price of a new ticket (rules apply) and as always, we don’t charge change fees. Learn more

Download Alaska’s app

Our app is the perfect tool to have on hand when you fly with us. You can use it to check in, pay for bags and stay up to date on any changes to your reservation—it’s like having a travel agent at your fingertips.

Download the Alaska App

Pro-tip: Turn on app notifications to get alerts from us + retrieve your boarding pass in one easy swipe on your home screen.

Sign up for flight notifications

Stay in the know by signing up for flight notifications via text or email. Unless otherwise noted, we will use your primary email address linked to your reservation for all communications.

If you’re using the app, be sure to refresh your reservation frequently and check your messages!

Call us, if you can’t rebook online

While we understand your first reaction might be to call our reservations team when your flight has been canceled, we’ve found you can save time by rebooking your trip online or on our app.

If your flight is impacted, you should receive a priority phone number to call via email if you’d like to discuss alternate options with one of our reservation agents—who are a constant and dependable source of reassurance and help when you need it most.

For all other reservation questions, guests can call 1 (800) 252-7522.

Why do the impacts feel worse in Seattle?

Seattle is Alaska’s hometown, and our operations represent the largest percentage (by a wide margin) of departures and arrivals at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) compared to other airlines. Because of this, more of our guests are impacted when something impacts operations at Seattle. If another airline’s main hub got hit with a snowstorm, hurricane or power outage, they would be disproportionately impacted.

For context, SEA has a very small footprint by acreage compared to other metropolitan airports. This constrains our ability to deice our entire schedule of flights in wintry weather. Because the space doesn’t allow for that type of volume, we have to thin out our schedule to keep planes moving.

Alaska Airlines is preparing for more snowstorms at its SEA hub for the holidays

Alaska Airlines made this announcement:

Everyone knows snow can make the holidays extra cozy. But it can also cause headaches for people traveling during the ‘most wonderful time of the year.’

Pacific Northwest forecasts are calling for the possibility of snow beginning this weekend and continuing throughout the week. We could see up to three separate snowstorms that could span rain/snow showers to snow actually accumulating on the ground.

At Alaska, we’re prepared to pull every lever to get you to your holiday destination, but disruptions from the snow and ice do happen. While our team is working hard to get guests where they need to go, we want to share some of the reasons why we do what we do:

Why do the impacts feel worse in Seattle?

Seattle is Alaska’s hometown, and our operations represent the largest percentage (by a wide margin) of departures and arrivals at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) compared to other airlines. Because of this, more of our guests are impacted when something impacts operations at Seattle. If another airline’s main hub got hit with a snowstorm, hurricane or power outage, they would be disproportionately impacted.

For context, SEA has a very small footprint by acreage compared to other metropolitan airports. This constrains our ability to deice our entire schedule of flights in wintry weather. Because the space doesn’t allow for that type of volume, we have to thin out our schedule to keep planes moving.

Why do we cancel flights before snow arrives?

We use numerous tools and resources to help us predict the weather. When our forecasts tell us to expect snow or ice, we know we need to act. Freezing temperatures and precipitation mean that we need to deice our aircraft before they can safely fly (more info on that below). Much like putting chains or studded tires on your car before hitting a snowy road, deicing aircraft slows down our operation. This means we can’t move our normal number of aircraft into and out of the airport. In order to reduce traffic jams, we need to proactively cancel flights from our schedule so we can keep as many aircraft moving as possible.

If we need to cancel flights, we try and let impacted guests know as early as possible. This means it could look clear and beautiful outside, but your flight tomorrow may have been canceled.

Why does an airplane need to be deiced?

Whenever there’s any snowfall or ice on our aircraft, we begin deicing procedures as part of our safety protocol. Aircraft cannot safely operate if there is snow or ice accumulation on the wings or tails, so it’s critical that we remove it before takeoff.

We have a full fleet of trucks, equipment and personnel across our stations ready to do that work, along with a well-stocked amount of deicing solution. They work as quickly as the airport and weather conditions will safely allow.

How to be a pro winter traveler

  • Download our mobile app to check-in, pay for bags and stay up to date on any changes to your reservation—it’s like having a travel agent at your fingertips. Learn more.
  • Always check the status of your flight before heading to the airport. You can do this on our mobile app or alaskaair.com.
  • Allow extra time to travel to the airport and navigate security.
  • Stay up to date on restrictions for unaccompanied minors and pets flying in the cargo hold. Often during winter weather, we will impose these restrictions to keep everyone safe. Learn more.
  • Bookmark Alaska’s News & Stories page for the latest updates.

What to do if your flight is canceled?

If your flight has been canceled, you will be contacted and reaccommodated on another flight. You will be emailed a special phone number to call if you need further help with your reaccommodation.

Top Copyright Photo: Alaska Airlines Boeing 737-790 WL N622AS (msn 30165) SEA (Brian Worthington). Image: 959669.

Alaska Airlines aircraft photo gallery (Boeing):

Alaska Airlines brings back the “ugly sweater” for the holidays

Alaska Airlines made this announcement:

It’s that time of year again to look fly at every festive soiree with Alaska’s holiday sweater!

Fashion expert Tan France calls holiday sweaters “a win-win.” He insists they’re acceptable enough to transition from a daytime look to an after-hour happy hour event without drawing too much attention. 

Take it from fashion expert Tan France who says: “holiday sweaters are the epitome of a win-win.” He insists they’re acceptable enough to transition from a daytime look to an after-hour happy hour event without drawing too much attention.

Here are some other reasons why we think ‘ugly’ sweaters should no longer get that wrap:  

It’s giving ‘born to stand out.’

“You become pretty hard to miss when you have a sweater with such a great color scheme and all the retro vibes to go with it,” says Denise, a first officer for Alaska based in Seattle. “When choosing the perfect sweater, pick one with a motive that inspires or represents you. Just have fun with it!”

Even if you’re on mute, at least your outfit pops on camera.

Exhibit A:

Call it “festive” or “vintage” what matters most is how it makes you feel.

What I love about the sweater is how bright and comfortable it is. The style, designs and color just put you in the holiday spirit,” says Darren, one of our line aircraft technician trainers in San Francisco.

They’re soft, cozy and easy to pack.

“Alaska’s 2022 holiday sweater is a swanky design blending fashion and holiday fun. Roll your sweater loosely in tissue paper and tuck in a candy cane or two,” says Matthew, an Alaska flight attendant in San Diego. “To find the best one, look no further than the 2022 Alaska Holiday sweater. Perfect for everyone on your list. Pro tip: purchase one size larger for extra comfort.”

It goes great with a French tuck.

Holiday sweaters have become a style all on its own. It’s a great way to block out the winter blues and add some fun and flare at any age,” says France.

They never go out of style.

Winter weather impacts Alaska Airlines’ hub in Seattle-Tacoma

Alaska Airlines made this announcement on November 30:

Additional snow hit the Seattle area on Wednesday afternoon/night. While Tuesday was challenging for many guests, who experienced long taxi times and deicing delays, our strategy of proactively thinning our flight schedule worked to mitigate the worst impacts from the storm. We’re implementing a similar strategy for this next snowfall.

Guests whose flights are pre-canceled will be contacted and reaccommodated on another flight. A flexible travel policy remains in place for guests to be able to adjust their flights themselves. Please use the Alaska Airlines app or visit alaskaair.com for more information.

We’re also enacting travel restrictions on flights to and from Seattle. Restrictions are now in place for animals in the cargo hold (AVIH) and unaccompanied minors (UMs) to protect the safety of everyone. Employees across our system are working hard to care for each and every guest and get you where you need to go. Guests traveling through Seattle should expect delays and extended taxi times. Thank you for your patience as we navigate these conditions together.

Alaska Airlines launches first U.S. electronic bag tag program

Alaska Airlines today became the first U.S. airline to launch an electronic bag tag program, which enables guests to tag their luggage through the airline’s mobile app before they even reach the airport.

This week, 2,500 Alaska Mileage Plan members will begin receiving their electronic bag tag. Those elite status members included in the first wave of the program are guests who have traveled in the last 12 months, checked-in at least one bag and were among the first to register to use the device.

Photo: Alaska Airlines. This week, 2,500 Alaska Mileage Plan members will begin receiving their electronic bag tag. The airline became the first U.S. carrier to launch an electronic bag tag program.

 

The three-by-five-inch devices are updated with a guest’s flight information through the Alaska Airlines mobile app during check-in; essentially allowing travelers to head straight to the bag drop area once they arrive at the airport.

The Alaska Airlines electronic bag tag is estimated to reduce the time guests spend in airport lobbies by about 40%, including reducing lines and the use of paper bag tags. In addition to the device’s impressive lifespan and durability (Alaska Airlines employees tested it by running it over with a truck), the devices don’t require charging or batteries.

The Alaska Airlines electronic bag tag will be available for purchase to all guests starting in 2023 and will operate on all Alaska Airlines marketed flights operated by Alaska Airlines, Horizon Air and SkyWest Airlines.

Along with the hardware, the software for the device is provided by BAGTAG, a Dutch company that is a pioneer in the field of baggage technology solutions.

Top Copyright Photo: Alaska Airlines Boeing 737-9 MAX 9 N943AK (msn 44084) LAX (Michael B. Ing). Image: 959479.

Alaska AIrlines aircraft photo gallery (Boeing):

Alaska Airlines welcomes its first Boeing 737NG cabin upgrade

Alaska Airlines has welcomed back its first upgraded Boeing 737NG cabin refresh on the pictured Boeing 737-800 “Wild Alaska Seafood” N559AS.

The new interior cabin upgrade utilizes Recaro seats.

Chistopher Dela Rosa made the announcement on social media:

Excited to welcome our first retrofitted 737-800 back into the Alaska Airlines fleet!

• Updated seat design

• Updated cabin dividers

• Updated bulkhead

• LED Lighting

Top Copyright Photo: Alaska Airlines Boeing 737-890 SSWL N559AS (msn 35178) “Salmon-Thirty-Salmon” (Wild Alaska Seafood) LAX (Michael B. Ing). Image: 947084.

Alaska Airlines aircraft photo gallery (Boeing):

Horizon Air unveils new aircraft designs before 2022 Apple Cup

Horizon Air made this announcdement:

The Huskies of the University of Washington (UW) are taking on the Cougars of Washington State University (WSU) in their annual rivalry football game – the Apple Cup – and we couldn’t resist getting in on the competitive fun.

While the two universities have graced the outside of Horizon Q400 aircraft, the airline is moving to a fleet solely of modern Embraer E-175 jets, which means the original UW and WSU painted planes will soon be retired. The good news is we’re bringing two brand new aircraft into our fleet with fresh paint highlighting our commitment to our home state’s largest universities.

As the football teams prepare to take the field, get a sneak peek of the new aircraft coming in the summer of 2023.

Which tail are you most excited to see flying around the Northwest?

Our commitment to education

We became the University of Washington’s official airline partner in 2016, and we have worked together through partnership with UW Athletics, the Foster School of Business and other campus initiatives. Over half of our investment with the university goes directly to student-athlete scholarships and welfare – reinforcing our goal of supporting education in the communities we serve. We’re also proud to watch the Huskies take on opponents on the Alaska Airlines Field at Husky Stadium and in the Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion.

Over the past 12 years, we’ve partnered with Washington State University on several initiatives to advance the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) – a key part of our goal to be carbon net zero by 2040. Beginning in 2015, we partnered with WSU-led Northwest Advanced Renewables Alliance (NARA) on the production and use of SAF made from forest residuals (tree limbs and branches that remain after a forest harvest). In 2016, we made history as the first airline to fly a commercial flight powered by this type of SAF. This year, WSU was named the academic partner as part of Alaska’s new corporate SAF program, with the goal to help expand the education and awareness on opportunities to improve the sustainability of business travel.

A new era of aircraft

Some of the communities we serve in the Pacific Northwest will be experiencing the benefits of Horizon’s new E-175s for the first time this winter. We love the jet and its range of benefits, and we know our guests will too:

  • The jet aircraft has three classes of service, just like our Boeing 737s.
  • Our elite members can enjoy upgrades to First Class and Premium Class.
  • All seats are window or aisle – there are no middle seats.
  • It provides a quieter flight than the Q400 turboprop.
  • There’s inflight entertainment and Wi-Fi connectivity on board.
  • There are larger overhead bins for showing carry-ons.
  • It flies faster than the Q400.

In addition, N652MK is the new Horizon Air retro jet:

Alaska Horizon aircraft photo Gallery:

Alaska Airlines refreshes its lounges

Alaska Airlines made this announcement:

Since 2018, we’ve doubled the footprint in our Lounges and invested $30 million in overall improvements, including our award-winning Flagship Lounge at the N Concourse in Seattle, our new Lounge in San Francisco and a new patio space at Concourse C Lounge in Portland.

Rendering of expansion of the Alaska Airlines C Concourse Lounge in Seattle.

Expanded patio area at the Alaska Airlines Lounge in Concourse C in Portland.

We continue to invest in upgrades to make our Lounges better (and bigger) than ever. We’re currently focusing on remodeling and renovating our additional popular locations in Seattle, adding amenities that mean the most to our Lounge members.

Here’s what’s happening across our Lounges:

  • Just in time for the holidays, our expanded C Concourse Lounge at our hometown airport in Seattle opens next week. With an additional 3,000 square feet, we’ve doubled the seating space with enough room for 60 more seats. Great views of the tarmac remain unchanged.
  • When the busy holiday season wraps up, the second phase of renovations in Seattle begins on Jan. 7, 2023, after the D Concourse Lounge closes for a complete overhaul. It’s set to reopen in summer 2023. The location will have 30% more seating, a new barista station, new food and beverage offerings, and an improved layout.
  • At our Lounges in Los Angeles and San Francisco, we’re brightening the spaces with modern furniture and other touches. At LAX, we’ve installed new artwork by local artists.
  • We’ve invested $1.5 million for Lounge upgrades in Portland this year. Along with expanding our current Lounge by 1,000 square feet with the addition of an enclosed patio area, we’ve also added an Express Lounge at Concourse B to give our guests more options.
  • Guests at our Lounges can enjoy a wide variety of complimentary West Coast craft beers and sip featured West Coast wines. At select locations, we’re also expanding our hot food options that are served throughout the day.

We always want our Lounge members to have the best possible experience when stopping by one of our locations. We provide complimentary drinks and snacks such as West Coast wines, local brews, custom cocktails, hand-crafted espresso beverages, and fresh, seasonal food and snacks. Plus we allow entry for two guests or immediate family members when traveling together anytime they fly on Alaska or another carrier.

The Alaska Lounge Membership Program offers two options for guests to choose from: Alaska Lounge members access all our Lounge locations, and Alaska Lounge+ members access all our Lounges and more than 90 partner lounges around the world. Alaska operates nine Lounges at six airports: Anchorage; Los Angeles; New York JFK; Portland (two locations); San Francisco; and Seattle (three locations).

Top Copyright Photo: Alaska Airlines Boeing 737-9 MAX 9 N938AK (msn 43381) LAX (Michael B. Ing). Image: 959396.

Alaska Aircraft photo gallery: