Alaska Airlines (AS)

Alaska Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the United States, with its headquarters located in SeaTac, Washington. Founded in 1932, the airline began as McGee Airways, flying between Anchorage and Bristol Bay.Today, it connects more than 120 destinations across the United States, Mexico, Canada, and Central America. Alaska Airlines operates a fleet of fuel-efficient aircraft and is known for its strong West Coast presence, loyalty program, and reliable service.


About Alaska Airlines


Alaska Airlines has operated for more than 90 years. It began with a small single-engine plane and expanded through mergers with local carriers. The airline was renamed Alaska Airlines in 1944.

After World War II, it added larger aircraft and became one of the first airlines to operate charter flights outside North America.

By the 1980s, Alaska Airlines was growing rapidly. It expanded service to California, Arizona, and other states. In the 1990s, it began international flights to Mexico.

In 2016, Alaska acquired Virgin America, which helped grow its domestic market share and improve its presence in California.

Today, the airline serves as the primary link between many small communities and major hubs in the western U.S. and Alaska. Travellers looking to book flights on Alaska Airlines will find strong regional connectivity and convenient options from coast to coast.

Alaska Airlines

Business Model and Strategy

  • Alaska Airlines operates under a hybrid model. It offers full-service mainline flights along with regional routes through its partners, Horizon Air and SkyWest Airlines. The airline focuses on providing value and comfort without charging high fees for basic services.
  • The airline avoids unnecessary complexity in pricing. Its fare structure is transparent, and most tickets include carry-on baggage, snacks, and in-flight entertainment. Passengers can choose from different cabin options and customise their experience with add-ons.
  • For those seeking alaska airlines cheap flights, the carrier’s approach offers both affordability and quality service.
  • Alaska also works closely with Oneworld Alliance partners, offering broader connectivity and mileage-earning opportunities across the globe.

Destinations and Network

Alaska Airlines serves more than 120 destinations. Its network is focused on the West Coast, Alaska, and major business and vacation markets across the U.S., Mexico, and Central America.

U.S. and Alaska Service

In Alaska, the airline serves both major cities and remote areas not accessible by road.

  • Anchorage
  • Fairbanks
  • Juneau
  • Ketchikan
  • Nome
  • Sitka
  • Utqiagvik (formerly Barrow)
  • Kodiak
  • Bethel
  • King Salmon
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West Coast and U.S. Routes

From its West Coast hubs, Alaska Airlines provides nonstop service to cities such as:

  • Los Angeles
  • San Francisco
  • Portland
  • San Diego
  • Seattle
  • Phoenix
  • Denver
  • Chicago
  • Dallas
  • New York
  • Boston
  • Washington, D.C.
Mexico and Central America

Alaska Airlines flies to vacation destinations including:

  • Cancun
  • Puerto Vallarta
  • Cabo San Lucas
  • Mazatlán
  • Belize City
  • Liberia (Costa Rica)
  • Guatemala City
  • Nassau (Bahamas)
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The airline continues to add new international routes to leisure markets.

Main Hubs and Focus Cities

Main Hubs

Alaska Airlines operates from several key hubs and focus cities, including:

  • Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA) – Primary hub
  • Portland International Airport (PDX)
  • Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
  • San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
  • San Diego International Airport (SAN)
  • Anchorage Ted Stevens International Airport (ANC)

The airline also maintains a strong presence in San Jose, Boise, and other growing markets.

Fleet Information

Alaska Airlines operates an all-Boeing mainline fleet, with more than 230 aircraft. The airline uses:

  • Boeing 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, and 737 MAX 9
  • Four dedicated freighter jets for cargo service

Regional routes are covered by Embraer 175 aircraft operated by Horizon Air and SkyWest Airlines. The transition to a single aircraft manufacturer helps streamline operations and reduce costs—one of the ways the airline keeps alaska airlines cheap flights widely available.

Cabin Options and Seating

Alaska offers three main cabin classes:

First Class
  • 2-2 seat layout with extra space.
  • Complimentary meals and beverages
  • Lounge access at select airports
  • Dedicated check-in and boarding lanes
  • Power outlets at every seat
Premium Class
  • Extra legroom (4 inches more than Main Cabin)
  • Early boarding
  • Complimentary beverages and snacks
  • Located in front rows of Main Cabin
  • Available as an upgrade or purchase during booking
Main Cabin
  • Standard economy seats
  • Free soft drinks and snacks
  • Meal and drink options for purchase on longer flights
  • Power and USB outlets on most aircraft
  • Streaming entertainment available on personal devices

Travellers can book flights on Alaska Airlines in any of these classes, with options to upgrade during booking or check-in.

In-Flight Services

Entertainment

All mainline flights offer free streaming entertainment. Passengers can watch movies, TV, and listen to music using their own devices. There are no seat-back screens, reducing aircraft weight and improving fuel savings.

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is available on most aircraft. Passengers can use messaging apps like iMessage and WhatsApp at no charge. Full Wi-Fi access is available for a flat rate on supported aircraft.

Food and Beverages

  • First Class receives full meals and premium drinks
  • Premium and Main Cabin receive snacks and beverages
  • Meals available for purchase on flights over 2.5 hours
  • Coffee provided by Stumptown Coffee Roasters
In-Flight Services

Baggage Policy

Baggage Policy

Alaska Airlines offers a flexible baggage policy. Most fare types include one carry-on and one personal item. Checked bag fees are reasonable and vary based on route and membership.


Carry-On

  • 1 personal item (e.g., purse, laptop bag)
  • 1 carry-on bag (22 x 14 x 9 inches)

Checked Bags

  • First bag: $35
  • Second bag: $45
  • Overweight and oversized fees apply
  • Free for First Class and elite Mileage Plan members
Alaska Lounges

Alaska Lounges

Alaska Airlines operates nine airport lounges. Lounges provide:

  • Comfortable seating
  • Complimentary snacks and drinks
  • Workstations and Wi-Fi
  • Quiet areas for relaxation
  • Available in Seattle, Portland, Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York (JFK), and Anchorage

Sustainability Commitment

Alaska Airlines is working to reduce its environmental impact. Its goals include:

  • Reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2040
  • Using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF)
  • Investing in electric and hybrid aviation technologies
  • Reducing waste by removing plastic cups and packaging
  • Supporting partners that convert carbon into clean fuel

The airline also participates in carbon offset programs and encourages travelers to reduce their footprint.

Why Choose Alaska Airlines?

Strong Service Record

The airline ranks high in customer satisfaction. It consistently receives awards for punctuality, baggage handling, and customer service.

Wide Network

Alaska connects small towns and major cities through nonstop routes. Its network covers both domestic and leisure international markets.

Flexible Booking Options

Passengers have choices when booking, including saver and main fares, upgrades, and seat selection options.

Rewarding Loyalty Program

Mileage Plan members earn more for every mile flown and can access award seats across many international partners.


Whether you're discovering Alaska’s stunning natural beauty, relaxing on Hawaii’s sun-soaked beaches, or heading off on an important business journey, Alaska Airlines is your reliable travel companion.

For in-depth information, help with bookings, and expert travel advice, contact IAirlines Services.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


Visit alaskaair.com or use the app to make changes. Most tickets can be changed or canceled without penalty.


Yes. Small pets can travel in the cabin. Larger pets may be checked as cargo. Fees apply.


Saver Fares are the most affordable tickets. They include standard seating but have limited flexibility and boarding position.


Use the Alaska credit card, book hotels, rent cars, or shop through Mileage Plan partners to earn miles.


Meals are available for purchase on flights longer than 2.5 hours. Complimentary snacks are served in all cabins.