Thursday, July 18, 2024
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At Alaska Airlines, improving your travel experience is always our top priority. We understand the importance of choice, and offer a range of options from the upscale amenities of First and Business Class to the economic flexibility of our Main Cabin and Discounted fares.
September marks the start of an exciting expansion for us. We plan to increase our First and Premium Class offerings across more than 200 aircraft in our fleet, including the 900ER, 800 and MAX9. This initiative will add 1.3 million premium seats annually to our mainline fleet. In addition, earlier this year, we completed a major refurbishment of our entire regional fleet by incorporating 400,000 Premium Class seats onto our E175 aircraft.
Expanding first and premium class seats
As we add more seats in these classes, we are simplifying the upgrade process for our passengers, making it easier than ever to enhance your travel experience while meeting the growing demand for premium seats.
| Planes | First class changes | Premium Class Changes | Number of aircraft refurbished | Transfer timing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 737-800 | Increase from 12 to 16 seats | 30 seats will remain | 59 | Conversions will begin in early 2025 and are scheduled to be completed by summer 2026. |
| 737-900ER | 16 seats will remain | Increase the number of seats from 24 to 30 seats | 79 | Conversions will begin in the fall of 2025 and are scheduled to be completed by the summer of 2026. |
| 737-9 Max | 16 seats will remain | Increase the number of seats from 24 to 30 seats | 80 | Conversions will begin in spring 2025 and are scheduled to be completed by summer 2026. |
Unique travel experience
For decades, our customers have cherished our industry-leading travel experience. Together with RECARO, we’ve elevated that experience, ensuring unparalleled comfort. The newly upgraded Premium Travel Seats on the 737-800 Series now offer the most legroom, with amenities like leg supports, innovative seatback device holders, a versatile six-way headrest with neck support, and USB-C charging ports.
Enhanced comfort in Economy and Premium Class
Premium and Economy Class passengers on our 737-800 aircraft will enjoy enhanced comfort and convenience. Upgrades include the latest device holders with cup holders, USB-C ports, and a six-way headrest with neck support.
As we upgrade our 737-900ER fleet to expand the economy section with six seat conversions, these aircraft will undergo elegant interior refreshes. This includes the addition of modern device holders across the economy section, reinforcing our commitment to essential fleet enhancements. In addition, our newest MAX9 aircraft will also see six seats converted to economy, enhancing the comfort and convenience our passengers expect.
Responding to growing demand
The expansion of our First and Business Class seats is a direct response to the increasing demand we have observed from our valued passengers. We recognize the growing preference for the enhanced comfort and exclusive benefits offered by these travel classes and we are committed to meeting these needs. Upgrading has never been easier, as we cater to the needs of both business and leisure travelers.
This quarter we saw revenues increase by 8% and 6% for our Premier and Premium classes respectively, with Premier class load factor reaching 71%, up 4.3%. Our Premium class capacity has improved significantly from previous figures, which hovered around the 40% mark for our main and regional fleets.
Unparalleled comfort
We are pleased to confirm that despite the addition of additional premium seats, our Boeing fleet will continue to offer four lavatories. This ensures that all passengers, regardless of their class of travel, have a smooth and accessible experience throughout their journey.
Exclusive benefits of traveling with us
Travelling with us, whether for business or leisure, means enjoying a range of premium services. These include no change fees, extra legroom in both Premier and Premium classes, and the best reward miles plan that offers the fastest path to elite status.
Enjoy a first-class onboard dining experience featuring exquisite West Coast-inspired cuisine and a selection of beverages. Our commitment to a technologically advanced travel experience, ongoing airport improvements, and exceptional team ensure a seamless journey from start to finish.
Additionally, we’ve simplified the process for upgrading seats. Guests can now upgrade to premium or first class via our website up to 50 minutes before takeoff, or through the Alaska Airlines mobile app.
Explore our media collection for detailed images of our premium seating options and layouts, available for download.
*Excludes lie-flat options compared to other traditional US airlines.
Tags: aircraft, airline news, alaska airlines, american airline news, economic flexibility, expansion, first class, initiative, main cabin, main airline fleet, premium class seats, travel experience, travel news
