Alaska Airlines to buy Hawaiian Airlines for $1.9billion......

Alaska Air Group and Hawaiian Holdings have confirmed that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Alaska Airlines will acquire Hawaiian Airlines for $18.00 per share in cash, for a transaction value of approximately $1.9 billion, inclusive of $0.9 billion of Hawaiian Airlines net debt. 

The transaction is expected to enable a stronger platform for growth and competition in the U.S., as well as long-term job opportunities for employees, continued investment in local communities and environmental stewardship.

Alaska's publicity team hype it as a natural alliance of the big airlines of the 49th and 50th U.S. states, which are uniquely reliant upon air travel. The buyout will build on the 90+ year legacies and cultures of these two service-oriented airlines, preserve both beloved brands on a single operating platform, and protect and grow union-represented jobs and economic development.

Ben Minicucci, Alaska Airlines CEO said: “This combination is an exciting next step in our collective journey to provide a better travel experience for our guests and expand options for West Coast and Hawai‘i travellers. 

Our two airlines are powered by incredible employees, with 90+ year legacies and values grounded in caring for the special places and people that we serve. I am grateful to the more than 23,000 Alaska Airlines employees who are proud to have served Hawai‘i for over 16 years, and we are fully committed to investing in the communities of Hawai‘i and maintaining the robust Neighbor Island service that Hawaiian Airlines travellers have come to expect. We look forward to deepening this stewardship as our airlines come together while providing unmatched value to customers, employees, communities and owners.”

 Hawaiian Airlines President and CEO. “In Alaska Airlines, we are joining an airline that has long served Hawai‘i and has a complementary network and a shared culture of service. With the additional scale and resources that this transaction with Alaska Airlines brings, we will be able to accelerate investments in our guest experience and technology, while maintaining the Hawaiian Airlines brand."

However, sources close to the deal have used various forums to slam the deal and the proposed benefits of the take-over that Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines have published.  According to some,  the Hawaiian brand will be axed within five years of the deal being finalised and is scheduled to be completely retired by the end of 2029. Staff numbers will be reduced, according to an Alaska Air staff member,  by around 3500, however, it is not known if these positions will be lost through natural wastage or from which airline they will be from. 

Initially, the carriers will retain their brand identity, however, will integrate into a single operating platform and uniformity of service will be introduced. The joint company will continue to offer the same fare points or cabins as currently in operation until the low-cost model can be introduced later on most routes.

The transaction will connect Hawaiian Airlines’ loyalty members with enhanced benefits through an industry-leading loyalty program for the combined airline, including the ability to earn and redeem miles on 29 global partners and receive elite benefits on the full complement of oneworld Alliance airlines, expanded global lounge access and benefits of the combined program’s co-brand credit card.

The airlines say there will be a growth in union-represented jobs as Alaska claims it will maintain and grow union-represented jobs in Hawai‘i, including preserving pilot, flight attendant, and maintenance bases in Honolulu and airport operations and cargo throughout the state. Yet there is no promise on non-union jobs or assurances on wage levels. 

Alaska Air also says it will maintain a 'management' presence on the islands with the 'regional' manager being based in Honolulu, however, most other functions will be at Alaska's current HQ. Apparently, there will be more opportunities for employees with greater geographic mobility for employees and a uniformity of benefits. Hawaiian Airlines' partnership with the Honolulu Community College Aeronautics Maintenance Technology Program and Alaska Airlines' Ascend Pilot Academy among others will continue for the foreseeable future, according to Alaska Air. 

It is understood that Alaska will retire all of Hawaiian Airlines Airbus A321 as soon as possible, replacing them with Boeing 737 MAX jets whilst the A330 fleet (except cargo) will be replaced with an exercising of options on Hawaiian's current 787 order. Yet no confirmation has yet been received of the fleet consolidation. 

The transaction agreement has been approved by both boards. The acquisition is conditioned on required regulatory approvals, approval by Hawaiian Holdings, Inc. shareholders (which is expected to be sought in the first quarter of 2024)

Alaska Airlines and Condor expand codeshare deal

Alaska Airlines has confirmed it will be expanding the partnership with Condor Airlines, a global partner for the carrier since March 2017.

The bilateral codeshare agreement enables Alaska and Condor to sell each other’s flights and just last week, the German leisure airline, Condor began marketing and selling more than 70 Alaska routes across the U.S. This summer, Alaska began marketing and selling from Condor’s 12 U.S. gateway cities to Frankfurt, Germany – the carrier’s home airport – including Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Los Angeles (LAX) and Anchorage. Each airline can sell the seats on selected flights as if they were their own, in a sense putting their “code” on the flights. It offers a seamless travel experience for guests across the two airlines. Flyers will enjoy the simplicity of purchasing connecting flights on both airlines using one reservation, along with seamless ticketing, check-in, boarding and checked baggage during their travel. 

“We continue to bolster our international partner portfolio, giving our guests convenient access to more of the globe. Condor provides a key link with its nonstops from Alaska’s gateway cities to Europe and beyond,” said Nat Pieper, senior vice president of fleet, finance and alliances at Alaska Airlines. “We look forward to expanding our codeshare with Condor to destinations beyond Frankfurt in the near future.”  

Condor’s newest addition to its fleet is the Airbus A330neo, known for the quietest cabin in the world compared to other aircraft of its size. Condor flies the A330neo between the U.S. and Germany in a three-class configuration: business, premium economy and economy.  

The airline recently launched its new business class product with lie-flat seats that include a larger bed and wider legroom, plus a gourmet menu and beverage service. Premium economy class also offers additional legroom with footrests to help stretch out, and meal service and complimentary beverages. All classes enjoy generous storage space, state-of-the-art inflight entertainment systems with 4K monitors and Bluetooth connectivity to use with personal wireless headphones. 

Condor is expanding in the U.S. The airline recently announced it will begin new nonstop service from both Miami and San Antonio to Frankfurt in May 2024. 

Horizon Air names Jason Berry as president

 

This week, the Horizon Air Board of Directors elected Jason Berry as president of Horizon Air. A 28-year industry veteran, Berry will lead strategy, oversee operations and engage the airline’s nearly 3,500 employees, as the airline continues to deliver exceptional regional air service on behalf of Alaska Airlines. Berry replaces Joe Sprague, who is retiring as Horizon president after four years and will shift to a senior advisor role at Alaska Airlines.    

 

Berry joined Horizon in early 2023 as senior vice president, operations. In this role he oversaw key aspects of the airline’s operations including employees in the regional carrier’s four largest workgroups. 

“I’ve had the opportunity to get to know our Horizon team over the past nine months and our employees are truly remarkable,” Berry said. “Horizon is an incredibly well-run airline, and our people have a special dedication and heart. The opportunity to lead Horizon is an immense honour.”

Off-duty Horizon Air pilot charged with attempted murder after tying to cut the power in flight.

An off-duty Alaska Airlines pilot has been charged with 83 counts of attempted murder, the UK's BBC has reported,  after he tried to crash the passenger jet he was flying on between  Everett, Washington, to San Francisco on Sunday.

The initial reports indicate the off-duty flyer was on the jumpseat in the cockpit and tried to disrupt the throttling of the engines at a crucial phase of the flight. Alaska Airlines said he  "unsuccessfully attempted to disrupt the operation of the engines.".  The man has been named locally by law enforcement as Joseph David Emerson, aged 44.

The incident is now being investigated by the Port of Portland Police Department and the FBI, the airline said, with the FBI confirming it was investigating the incident and said it "can assure the travelling public there is no continuing threat related to this incident".

In addition to the attempted murder charges, Mr Emerson also faces 83 counts of reckless endangerment and one count of endangering an aircraft. 

The carrier said the plane was operated by Horizon Air, diverted to Portland because of the incident and "All passengers on board were able to travel on a later flight.  -  We are grateful for the professional handling of the situation by the Horizon flight crew and appreciate our guests' calm and patience throughout this event." 

Alaska Airlines to add new nonstop services from Anchorage to New York City and San Diego

Alaska Airlines is connecting Anchorage to both New York City and San Diego with seasonal nonstop service next summer. Daily flights to New York JFK begin June 13, 2024, and weekly flights to San Diego start May 18, 2024. 

The new nonstop between the Big Apple and Anchorage will be unique to Alaska Airlines and will open up the last frontier to New Yorkers and open up the whole region. At a distance of some 3,386 miles, it will be the longest flight in Alaska's network and is scheduled to be operated by Boeing 737 MAX 8 jet.  

We’re eager to welcome guests to our great state from the city that never sleeps to the land of the midnight sun on Alaska’s new nonstop flight,” said Jillian Simpson, president and CEO of the Alaska Travel Industry Association (ATIA). “Summer is an incredible time to visit Alaska with our warm, long days. There’s so much to do in Anchorage and in the smaller towns nearby, mapping out your itinerary might be the toughest thing you do before heading west.”

Alaska Airlines latest results.....

Alaska Air Group has just reported financial results for the third quarter ending September 30, 2023, and provided outlook for the fourth quarter ending December 31, 2023.  

"I am grateful to our people for delivering industry-leading operational performance and strong cost discipline this quarter,” said CEO Ben Minicucci. “Our 11.4% adjusted pretax margin is among the best in the industry despite external headwinds. Our investments in our all-Boeing fleet, premium seating on 100% of our aircraft and access for our loyalty members to a global alliance provide our guests with a premium domestic product that rivals any in the industry."

Financial Highlights:

• Reported net income for the third quarter of 2023 under Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) of $139 million, or $1.08 per share, compared to a net income of $40 million, or $0.31 per share, for the third quarter of 2022.
• Reported net income for the third quarter of 2023, excluding special items and mark-to-market fuel hedge accounting adjustments, of $237 million, or $1.83 per share, compared to $325 million, or $2.53 per share, for the third quarter of 2022.
• Recorded $2.8 billion in operating revenue.
• Reduced CASM excluding fuel and special items by 5% compared to the third quarter of 2022.
• Repurchased 248,988 shares of common stock for approximately $13 million, bringing total repurchases to $70 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023.
• Generated $271 million in operating cash flow for the third quarter of 2023.
• Held $2.5 billion in unrestricted cash and marketable securities as of September 30, 2023.
• Ended the quarter with a debt-to-capitalization ratio of 48%, within the target range of 40% to 50%.

Alaska Airlines to launch new service to Atlanta next year.

Alaska Airlines is launching another new route - nonstop between San Diego and Atlanta.  This new route won't start until 16th May next year and from then on, it will be a daily operation.  Alaska will compete directly with Delta Air Lines which already operates up to six daily flights between the two cities and provides an excellent onward connection service at Atlanta. 

"We want to provide our guests in San Diego the most nonstop options,” said Kirsten Amrine, vice president of revenue management and network planning for Alaska Airlines. “Not only are San Diego and Atlanta popular destinations for leisure travellers, but both are also major business hubs. We’re excited to connect the cities, especially since Atlanta is our largest  unserved transcontinental market from San Diego.” 

“We appreciate Alaska Airlines' new options to destinations across the country,” said Kimberly Becker, San Diego County Regional Airport Authority President & CEO. “This new nonstop service to Atlanta offers Southern Californians direct access to Georgia’s capital and key economic centre, while providing easy access for Georgians to the warmth and beauty of San Diego.” 

Alaska Airlines unveils two new special sports team livery jets...

This autumn Alaska Airlines has painted not one, but two new aircraft with the colours of local sports teams. The two new aircraft show off the relationship the carrier has with Washington State University (WSU) and the University of Washington (UW).  

The Embraer E175 “Go Cougs” aircraft will take to the skies this Saturday, 23rd September from Seattle to Pullman ahead of WSU’s matchup against the Oregon State Beavers. 

On 3rd October the “Go Dawgs” special UW-themed aircraft will be introduced to fans departing Seattle to Portland. 

 "Since launching our first university-themed livery almost 20 years ago, we know that few things get local fans as excited as seeing their school’s colours on the side of the hometown airlines’ aeroplanes," said Joe Sprague, Horizon Air president.  

Airlines transport relief supplies to Maui as wildfires claim 55 lives

The wildfires that have spread across Maui have claimed the lives of at least 55 people, local authorities report and the death toll is likely to increase. Governor Josh Green said the inferno that reduced much of Lahaina to smouldering ruins was the worst natural disaster in the state's history, making thousands of people homeless and levelling as many as 1,000 buildings.  

Thousands of locals and tourists were evacuated from the western side of Maui with some taking shelter elsewhere on the island or on Oahu. Many tourists camped in the Kahului Airport, waiting for flights back home.

Alaska Airlines has operated special rescue flights to Maui filled with relief supplies including water, non-perishable food, pillows, blankets, towels, wipes, baby formula and diapers. The aircraft transported passengers back to Seattle. 

The carrier said it was closely monitoring the devastating impacts of the wildfires on Maui and would even be operating unscheduled flights between Maui and Honolulu to move guests off of Maui and bring critical supplies in. 

Our hearts are with those on Maui, and our employees and their families, during this devastating time,” said Daniel Chun, Alaska’s Director of Sales, Community & Public Relations in Hawaii. “We hope we can help bring much-needed care and relief to those who’ve experienced catastrophic loss throughout the community.” 

The airline issued the following advice for passengers with bookings on flights to Hawai'i.   

Traveling to/from Maui 

We are offering a flexible travel policy if you would like to change or cancel your flight to Maui.  

In accordance with emergency orders from the state of Hawai‘i, we’re discouraging guests from non-essential travel to Maui. The flexible travel policy allows guests with planned travel to Maui to change their flight to another Hawaiian island. Alaska serves Honolulu, O‘ahu; Kona, Hawai‘i; and Līhu‘e, Kaua‘i.  

To help the Maui community, for this emergency, we are allowing guests to cancel their reservations and receive a refund to their original form of payment upon request. As always, you can choose to keep the refund in your Account wallet or receive a credit certificate for future travel, but we are doing everything we can to encourage our guests to rethink their trips to the island right now. 

U.S mega-carrier Delta advised it will contribute $250,000 to the American Red Cross to aid in the disaster response and relief efforts in Maui and other areas of Hawaii coping with the destruction caused by recent wildfires brought on by strong winds as a result of Hurricane Dora, a Category 4 hurricane which passed 300 miles south of the Hawaiian Islands.   Most of the fires on Maui are still burning, forcing thousands of residents and tourists to evacuate. the airline advised, however, the carrier was still selling tickets to Maui for travel tomorrow at fares of £1942.   

Hawaiian Airlines

The boss of local hometown carrier of the islands, Hawaiin Airlines, Peter Ingram said:  “This is an incredibly tragic and sad event, and our hearts go out to everyone impacted on Maui and especially those who have lost loved ones. - Our teams across our operation are working tirelessly to help those affected, including our nearly 500 colleagues who call Maui home. We send our deepest condolences to those impacted by the fires and will continue to leverage every resource we have to support the Maui community."

Here’s how Hawaiian Airlines has supported response efforts in the first 24 hours:

Facilitating essential travel

Ran a full schedule of flights in and out of Maui, including nine additional flights scheduled on both the 9th and 10th of August

Made every main cabin seat from Kahului to Honolulu available at $19 through Aug. 14, so costs would not be an obstacle to those needing to leave.

Issued a travel waiver to allow guests with travel to and from Maui scheduled through Aug. 31 flexibility to change or refund flights.

Cargo

The airline set aside dedicated space on its aircraft to support essential cargo, including life-saving blood and medical supplies, medication, food, water, amenity kits and infrastructure equipment for telecommunications repairs.

Donated and shipped soft goods and catering items, including 300 bottles of Mananalu water, 550 sandwiches, 3,000 snack items, 1,600 amenity kits, mattress pads, lounging pillows and other supplies, for evacuees arriving at Kahului Airport.

Caring for guests and employees

Activated Team Kōkua, Hawaiian’s employee volunteer group, to support guests and staff in Honolulu and Kahului.

Deployed employee members of the Hawaiian Airlines Emergency Assistance Response Team (HEART) to work at the Honolulu Convention Center and other shelter facilities for visitors.

Activated employee support resources for team members on Maui and elsewhere who have been personally affected by these tragic events.

Partnering for relief efforts

Donated seats to first responders, including City and County of Honolulu firefighters to help Maui stations battle the ongoing wildfires.

Nearly 90 million miles (equivalent to 12,000 interisland flights) in joint donation with HawaiianMiles members to the American Red Cross of Hawaii to facilitate travel for volunteers, support personnel and community members in need.

SkyWest reports pre-tax income of $18 million and net income of $15 million during quarter two of 2023

U.S. airline SkyWest has released details of its financial and operating results for the second quarter of 2023, including net income of $15 million, or $0.35 per diluted share, compared to net income of $54 million, or $1.07 earnings per diluted share, for Q2 2022.

Chip Childs, Chief Executive Officer of SkyWest, said, “We are making steady headway towards reaching our strategic business objectives and remain optimistic as we continue experiencing strong demand for our products. I want to thank our team of professionals for delivering industry-leading performance throughout the second quarter.”

SkyWest Airlines has a fleet of approximately 500 aircraft connecting passengers to over 240 destinations throughout North America. SkyWest Airlines operates through partnerships with United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and Alaska Airlines carrying more than 40 million passengers in 2022.

Under its previously announced share repurchase programs, SkyWest repurchased 3.3 million shares of common stock for $94 million during Q2 2023. In total, during the first half of 2023, SkyWest repurchased 8.4 million shares of common stock for $194 million, which represented 17% of SkyWest’s outstanding shares as of December 31, 2022. The current share repurchase program authorized by the SkyWest Board of Directors in May 2023 had $186 million of remaining availability as of June 30, 2023.

Financial Results

Revenue was $726 million in Q2 2023, down $73 million, or 9%, from $799 million in Q2 2022. SkyWest deferred recognizing $60 million of revenue during Q2 2023 compared to recognizing previously deferred revenue of $16 million during Q2 2022. The amount of revenue deferred during Q2 2023 was driven by modified terms relating to fixed monthly cash payments under SkyWest’s previously announced amended flying contracts. See the “Other Supplemental Cash Flow Information” section of this release for more information. The remaining reduction in revenue was attributed to a decrease in block hour production in Q2 2023 compared to Q2 2022.

Operating expenses were $694 million in Q2 2023, down $16 million, or 2%, from $710 million in Q2 2022, driven by decreases in operating costs as a result of lower Q2 2023 block hour production compared to Q2 2022, partially offset by increases in employee compensation, including higher pilot pay scales.

Capital and Liquidity

SkyWest had $862 million in cash and marketable securities at June 30, 2023, down from $936 million at March 31, 2023 and $1.0 billion at December 31, 2022.

Total debt at June 30, 2023 was $3.2 billion, down from $3.3 billion at March 31, 2023 and $3.4 billion at December 31, 2022. Capital expenditures during Q2 2023 were $31 million for spare engines and other fixed assets.

Status Update on Previously Announced Agreements

SkyWest anticipates adding two E175 aircraft in Q4 2023 and one E175 aircraft in 2024 under a flying contract with Delta Air Lines. SkyWest also anticipates adding one E175 aircraft in 2025 under a flying contract with Alaska Airlines. Timing of future deliveries is subject to change.

By the end of 2025, SkyWest is scheduled to operate a total of 239 E175 aircraft.

Alaska Airlines reopens renovated D Concourse Lounge in Seattle

Alaska Airlines is all set to welcome back members and passengers to its popular D Concourse Lounge at the carrier's hometown airport of Seattle, which has been renovated to offer 50% more seating and improved amenities. 

Alaska Airlines has doubled the footprint of lounges with an investment of some $30 million for improvements over the past five years. The airline said its focus was on producing fresh upgrades and new amenities to make the spaces bigger and better than ever. 

The renovated lounge has a new barista station located on the first level so members and guests can grab a quick, hand-crafted espresso beverage or brewed coffee to go (a big request by travellers on their way to their gate), or they can simply hang out for a bit. 

"The revamped D Concourse Lounge in Seattle will be a huge hit with all those travellers who visit. We added thoughtful touches – from being able to quickly grab a delicious hand-crafted espresso beverage to more comfy chairs to relax in."  said Sangita Woerner, senior vice president of marketing and guest experience at Alaska Airlines.

The redesigned D Concourse Lounge features artwork by the influential Coast Salish artist Louie Gong (Nooksack). His unique style merges traditional Native art with influences from his mixed heritage and urban environment to create work that resonates widely across communities and cultures.

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Alaska Airlines adds new nonstop between Honolulu and Seattle/Everett - Paine Field....

Alaska Airlines to operate a daily year-round service between Seattle/Everett -Paine Field and Oahu, Hawai'i 

Alaska Airlines will launch the new service on 17th November, ready for the autumn/fall peak holiday season.  The new service will be the longest flight the carrier operates from Paine Field.

“If there’s one place our guests told us again and again that they wanted to fly to from Seattle’s northern airport, it’s beautiful Hawaii. We’ve been eager to make it happen,” said Kirsten Amrine, vice president of revenue management and network planning for Alaska Airlines. “We’ve proudly served the Hawaiian Islands for more than 15 years. This new route adds Seattle/Everett to our list of West Coast gateways to Honolulu. We’ll be ready to say aloha to our guests on this new flight this fall.”

Seattle/Everett is a closer and more convenient airport when travelling to and from points north of Seattle. Alaska Airlines says that many of its customers prefer the smaller airport and the more easy to navigate the terminal’s location and lounge atmosphere. The airport recently welcomed its one-millionth passenger on a departing flight from Seattle/Everett.

“For those travelling between Honolulu and Washington State, flying into Seattle/Everett will be a terrific, less congested option and a great way to access the greater Seattle area,” said Daniel Chun, director of sales, community and public relations in Hawaii for Alaska Airlines. “With this new flight, we’ll fly a combined six nonstops a day to the two Seattle area airports from Oahu, providing our leisure and business travellers with a variety of flight times that work best for them.”

The route will be operated with the airline's Boeing 737 jets which have a three-class cabin configuration. First Class, Premium Class and Economy.  The aircraft have power outlets at every seat and are fitted with the ability to stream hundreds of free movies and TV shows to passengers' own devices. Despite the length of the flight, passengers will still have to buy their own refreshments or snacks. 

Alaska Airlines salutes indigenous culture & language with new special salmon livery jet

Earlier this week, Alaska Airlines unveiled its very latest special livery jet that has been designed by talented Alaska native artist Crystal Kaakeeyáa Rose Demientieff Worl. Xáat Kwáani means “Salmon People” in the Alaskan Tlingit language and refers to the spiritual link between the people who interact with the beloved salmon and all of us who benefit from their stewardship of the environment.

Using Northwest Coast formline art, the salmon design by Worl is a one-of-a-kind work that honours salmon, culture, artistic expression, and language. Traditional formline art dates back thousands of years and is a two-dimensional design style of the Northwest Coast.

“Every time I looked at an Alaska plane, I couldn't help but visualize the salmon being in formline, or having some sort of design that represents identity. I can't help but look at things and see how to Indigenize them,” said Worl. “I have high hopes this project will encourage people to learn and embrace Indigenous culture and values.”

Marilyn Romano, regional vice president, of Alaska Airlines said:  "Crystal Worl has a love of monumental art — most recently murals gracing the sides of buildings in Juneau and Anchorage for locals and visitors to enjoy. And we had a large blank canvas — a 737-800. - During our first conversation, Crystal shared her desire to paint an Alaska Airlines plane — she has flown with us most of her life. Salmon as a focus was intentional and Crystal shares the relationship between salmon and Native people through storytelling and artistic design."

Salmon has a special meaning and significance in the state of Alaska, the Pacific Northwest and along the West Coast. Some travel as far as 600 miles each way, each uniquely adapted to its particular river system, ocean and watershed environment.

Xáat Kwáani paint facts:

• It took 117 gallons of paint to complete the livery.

• Four main colours were used to create the livery: Midnight Blue, Atlas Blue, White and Pink.

• From landing to take-off, it took just 12 days to paint.

• The specially painted livery will fly for a number of years through a paint system that applies a protective clear coat over the base coats. This protective coating will keep the livery looking fresh for many years.

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Alaska Airlines introduces new meal offerings in First Class and Economy.

Alaska Airlines adds a bigger variety of food & beverage options

Alaska Airlines introduces new meal selections in first class and economy as well as a take on a classic sandwich that is infused with West Coast flavours.

Alaska Airlines has increased the variety of food offerings available on flights from today which effectively doubles the number of pre-order options in the economy main cabin and gives first-class passengers up to five different main courses to enjoy on their flights.

 

The airline has added a new sandwich which was named by one of the carrier's staff - Jetsetter’s Jam is a version of the American classic peanut butter and jelly (Jelly is Jam in most other places in the world!)  sandwich – but the Alaska take is that its peanut free. It’s made instead with toasted cashew and oat butter and a homemade strawberry compote on a sweet croissant bread, paired with fresh fruit and a slice of Tillamook cheese.

"We’re always looking to spark joy with great food and drink on board our flights, delivering a delicious meal or craft beverage with care as part of our award-winning service,” said Todd Traynor-Corey, managing director of guest products at Alaska Airlines. “What our guests have to say is important, and they told us that more food and beverage variety would be great, so we set out to make that happen. We’ve worked hard to give our guests of all ages a wider selection of food, from classic comfort food to more healthful options all while representing the vibrant flavours of the West Coast. 

 

Alaska continues to offer freshly-prepared meals in First Class on its flights as short as 550 miles, unlike most other U.S. airlines that have very little on flights under 900 miles. Alaska Air passengers in first class also have more vegan and gluten-free options available to reserve before their flight.  Fresh food in the main economy cabin is available only by pre-ordering it, on the airline's website or app. 

A sampling of what’s new in First Class

Passengers have a choice of up to five different entrees on coast-to-coast and Hawaii flights.

Breakfast features menu options like Mushroom Omelet, Chicken Sausage Breakfast Bowl and Lemon Blueberry Pancakes

Lunch options include a Wedge Salad with Applewood Bacon, Korean Barbeque Chicken Sandwich and Caramelized Onion Angus Burger

Dinner options on long-haul flights including Chimichurri Flat Iron Steak, Herb Roasted Chicken, Lemon Fennel Manicotti and Ginger Beef Stir-Fry Noodles

Beecher’s Flagship Mac and Cheese as a comfort classic on certain flights

For a little spice, Alicia’s Pork Carnitas Tamale – handcrafted with organic ingredients in the Bay Area – is now available on select flights departing the Bay Area

Vegan options are available for pre-order on all meal service flights including items such as a Harissa and Chorizo Frittata made with plant-based JUST Egg, a Spicy Tofu Wrap and a White Bean Chili with Grilled Polenta

What’s new in the main cabin

Breakfast options will include a Turkey, Bacon & Tomato Bagel Sandwich and Smoked Salmon Bagel Sandwich

Lunch and dinner options include two new salad choices designed in partnership with Evergreens Salad: Stand Banh Mi and Strawberry Fields for Chevre

There are also two new wraps to enjoy: Mediterranean Chicken Shawarma and Chicken Mango

On flights to and from Hawaii, the airline is bringing back hot food with the return of the Tillamook cheeseburger with more hot food choices planned for the future

Signature Fruit and Cheese Platter and Fresh Start Protein Platters remain available in addition to more variety of sandwiches and salad

The new Jetsetter's Jam sandwich is available for purchase by pre-order in the main cabin on flights over 775 miles. 

For beverages, those with deep pockets and flying in first class they can enjoy wines from Ste. Chapelle – the oldest winery in Idaho led by a female winemaker – and Fat Tire Amber Ale from New Belgium, which is the first-ever completely carbon-neutral beer. In July, Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Thing Hazy IPA will join the mix along with a Schilling Hard Cider.

Alaska Airlines and ZeroAvia partner in developing world’s largest zero-emission aircraft

Hydrogen electric powered Q400 could be the future of regional travel 

This week Alaska Airlines unveiled a freshly painted Bombardier Q400 regional turboprop and handed it over to ZeroAvia where it will be retrofitted with a hydrogen-electric propulsion system to further enhance and expand the reach and applicability of zero emissions flight technology.

ZeroAvia unveils world’s most advanced electric motor technology for aviation, paving way for hydrogen-electric engines for Dash 8 and similar airframes

At an event, held at ZeroAvia’s Paine Field research and development site with the formal handover of the 76-seat Q400 aircraft that will be developed by ZeroAvia witnessed by various dignitaries and invited guests.  

When Alaska Airlines’ regional carrier Horizon Air retired its Q400 fleet, it reserved one of the aircraft for research and development purposes to further advance zero emissions technology for the aviation industry. The aircraft was repainted with a special livery to highlight the innovative mission of this partnership.

ZeroAvia also debuted its breakthrough multi-megawatt modular electric motor system in a 1.8MW prototype configuration at the event – demonstrated with a propeller spin aboard the ZeroAvia’s 15-ton HyperTruck ground-test rig. Combined with higher-temperature PEM fuel cells and advanced power electronics – both technologies that ZeroAvia is developing in-house – the leading-edge electric motor technology is one of three key building blocks for enabling commercially-relevant hydrogen fuel cell engines for larger aircraft.  

Aligning ZeroAvia’s powertrain with the Dash 8-400 airframe will represent a commercially viable zero-emission aircraft with fuel cell engine technology around five times more powerful than what has been demonstrated anywhere to date.  

“Demonstrating this size of aircraft in flight, powered entirely by novel propulsion, would have been unthinkable a few years ago,” said Val Miftakhov, founder and CEO of ZeroAvia. “Launching this program puts us on track for a test flight next year, and accelerates our progress toward the future of zero-emission flight for Alaska Airlines and for the world at large.”

Alaska Airlines launches partnership with STARLUX Airlines

Alaska Airlines has signed a new deal with STARLUX Airlines which now flies between Los Angeles and Taipei with connections to 16 destinations across Asia. Alaska's Mileage Plan members can earn miles on all STARLUX flights and soon they’ll be able to redeem miles on STARLUX as well.  When redemptions become available this summer on STARLUX flights between Los Angeles and Taipei, they will start at 20,000 miles for economy, 40,000 for premium economy and 60,000 for business class for a limited time.

STARLUX is a premier global airline offering world-class service and amenities. We’re proud to be their first airline partner,” said Nat Pieper, senior vice president of fleet, finance and alliances at Alaska Airlines. “Our guests will love flying on STARLUX, connecting the West Coast, Taipei and many more incredible places in Asia. We’re thrilled to offer our loyal Mileage Plan members another exciting way to see the world.”

“STARLUX Airlines has marked a successful three-year operation of our Asian routes, revolutionizing the aviation industry with our exceptional service and innovative cabin design that have been highly commended by passengers. In a new milestone, we launched our inaugural flight to Los Angeles today, offering convenient and comfortable long-haul premier services to passengers travelling to the city of angels,” said Glenn Chai, CEO of STARLUX Airlines. 

STARLUX operates the transpacific route with its new-generation Airbus A350-900 aircraft configured in a four-class layout: First, business, premium economy and economy.

Inflight service on STARLUX includes Taiwanese signature dishes and amenities prepared for passengers in all classes. STARLUX will be offering first and business guests a selection of the best top chef’s creations and local Taiwanese delicacies. The popular STARLUX signature dish yakiniku donburi is served on board. And to bring greater individuality to their air travel experience, all passengers can pre-order meals online so they can enjoy the meal they want.

Alaska Air Group reports first quarter 2023 results

Alaska Air Group has issued its financial results for the first quarter ending March 31, 2023.

"This quarter we returned to pre-pandemic levels of flying and our roadmap to profitable growth is on track,” said Alaska CEO Ben Minicucci. “As we progress through the year, we have taken deliberate steps to build momentum and we are well prepared for peak summer flying. Thank you to our 23,000 employees who are the backbone of our success – I’m proud of their work to deliver operational excellence and show care for the people who fly with us each day. We are well-positioned to deliver on our full-year financial targets, including a 9% to 12% adjusted pretax margin.” 

Singapore Airlines named as one of the 50 most admired companies in the world.

Fortune magazine has named Singapore Airlines one of the 50 most admired companies in the world.

The airline said in a statement "We would like to thank our customers for their continuous support, which we do not take for granted. This accolade is a testament to the dedication of our people, who have been critical to our recovery and who strive to exceed the expectations of our customers every single day."

For more details, visit https://bit.ly/3XW3YLP.

Other airlines on the list include Delta Air Lines, Lufthansa, Cathay Pacific, Southwest, Air France-KLM, Alaska Air and United. 

Alaska Airlines drops platsic cups.....

All inflight beverages on Alaska flights are now served in Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified paper cups or reusable glassware for most First-Class services. It is a move which eliminates more than 55 million plastic cups annually and replaces them with a more planet-friendly alternative. The carrier began the process of eliminating its five largest sources of plastic waste in 2018 by removing plastic straws and stir sticks from inflight service. 

As part of the sustainability efforts, Alaska continues to pursue product innovations and supply chain advancements to achieve our 2025 goal of replacing the top five waste-producing items from onboard service and continuing to recycle. In 2021, Alaska established climate goals for its impacts in carbon, waste, and water while defining a five-part pathway to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2040 to keep the places we live and fly beautiful and viable for generations to come.

The airline is also eliminating plastic water bottles in favour of Boxed Water cartons. Boxed Water packages purified water in 100% recyclable cartons made from plant materials, and guests surveyed report that they prefer Boxed Water over plastic-bottled water at a rate of 2-to-1.