Alaska Airlines Announces Major Expansion of First Class and Premium Seating

Alaska Airlines is excited to announce a significant expansion of First Class and Premium Class seating across its fleet, enhancing the travel experience for passengers seeking added comfort and perks. Starting in September, the airline will begin rolling out additional premium seats on more than 200 aircraft, including the 737-900ER, 737-800, and 737 MAX 9 models.

Fleet Enhancements

The expansion will add 1.3 million premium seats annually to Alaska Airlines’ mainline fleet. This follows a successful retrofit of the regional fleet earlier this year, which added 400,000 Premium Class seats to E175 aircraft.

David J. Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative: “Hydrogen is going to play an important role in decarbonizing aviation, so we need to lay the groundwork now. The Gatwick hub is a positive signal of the industry’s intent to adapt and work together towards decarbonization. With support from regulators and policymakers, projects like this will prepare UK airports for a hydrogen transition, critical to achieving our net zero ambitions.”

Enhanced First Class Experience

In partnership with RECARO, Alaska Airlines has upgraded its First Class seats on the 737-800 fleet to offer the most legroom and additional features, including:

• Calf rest
• New seatback device holder
• 6-way headrest with neck support
• USB-C charging capabilities

Premium Class and Main Cabin Upgrades

The Main Cabin and Premium Class of the 737-800 fleet will also feature improved amenities, such as:

• Device holders with built-in cup holders
• USB-C charging
• 6-way headrest with dedicated neck support

As part of the 737-900ER fleet modifications, six Main Cabin seats will be converted to Premium Class, along with an interior refresh that includes modern touches like device holders. The 737 MAX 9 aircraft will also see six additional seats converted to Premium Class.

Meeting Growing Demand

The expansion of First Class and Premium Class seating is in response to increasing demand from passengers seeking enhanced comfort and benefits. Alaska Airlines' Premium Cabin performance reflects a structural shift towards higher demand for premium products. First Class and Premium Class revenues increased by 8% and 6% respectively, with First Class load factors reaching 71% this quarter, up 4.3 points.

Maintaining Convenience

Despite the increase in premium seating, Alaska Airlines will maintain four lavatories on its Boeing fleet, ensuring convenience and accessibility for all passengers.

Premium Perks and Offerings

Passengers flying in First Class and Premium Class can enjoy numerous perks, including no change fees, extra legroom, and a generous Mileage Plan for quick elite status attainment. Onboard, travelers can indulge in high-quality West Coast-inspired meals and a premium selection of drinks, alongside tech-savvy travel experiences and remarkable service from Alaska Airlines’ dedicated employees.