Thursday, July 18, 2024
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At Alaska Airlines, enhancing your travel experience has always been our number one priority. We understand the importance of choice, which is why we offer a wide range of options, from the upscale comfort of Premium and First Class to the economical flexibility of Main Cabin and Saver fares.
This September marks the start of an exciting expansion for us. We plan to add more First and Premium Class seats on more than 200 aircraft, including 900ER, 800 and MAX9 aircraft. This effort will result in the addition of 1.3 million premium seats to our mainline aircraft each year. Additionally, earlier this year we completed a major renovation of our entire regional fleet by incorporating 400,000 premium class seats on our E175 aircraft.
Expanded premium and first class seating
Adding seats to these classes will streamline the upgrade process for passengers, making it easier than ever to enhance their travel experience while meeting growing demand for premium seating.
| aircraft | First Class Changes | Premium Class Changes | Number of aircraft modified | Conversion Timing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 737-800 | Increased from 12 to 16 seats | 30 seats remain | 59 | The renovation work is expected to begin in early 2025 and be completed by summer 2026. |
| 737-900ER | 16 seats remain | Increased from 24 to 30 seats | 79 | The renovation work is scheduled to begin in the fall of 2025 and be completed by the summer of 2026. |
| 737-9 MAX | 16 seats remain | Increased from 24 to 30 seats | 80 | The renovation work is scheduled to begin in spring 2025 and be completed by summer 2026. |
Premier Travel Experiences
For decades, our customers have cherished our pioneering Premier Travel Experience. In collaboration with RECARO, we have further enhanced this experience, delivering unparalleled comfort. The newly upgraded Premier Travel Seat on the 737-800 Series offers the most legroom and features amenities such as calf support, innovative seatback device holders, a versatile six-way headrest with neck support and a USB-C charging port.
Enhanced comfort in premium and economy class
Passengers in Economy and Premium Class on our 737-800 aircraft will enjoy added comfort and convenience. Upgrades include modern device holders with integrated cup holders, USB-C ports and six-way headrests with special neck support.
As we refresh our 737-900ER aircraft and expand the premium section with the conversion of six economy seats, these aircraft will receive a stylish interior makeover, including the addition of modern device holders throughout the economy section, reinforcing our commitment to strengthening our core fleet. Additionally, our newest MAX9 aircraft will also have six seats converted to premium, further enhancing the comfort and luxury our passengers have come to expect.
Meeting growing demand
The expansion of Premier and Premium seating is a direct response to the growing demand from our esteemed passengers. We recognize the growing demand for the increased comfort and special perks that these travel classes offer, and we are committed to serving these needs. Upgrading has never been easier, addressing the needs of both business and leisure travelers.
Premier and premium class revenues increased 8% and 6%, respectively, during the quarter, while premier class load factor increased 4.3% to 71%. Growth in paid premium seats improved significantly from previous figures which hovered around 40% for mainline and all-seat regional routes.
Convenience without compromise
Despite the addition of premium seating, we are pleased to announce that Boeing aircraft will continue to feature four restrooms, ensuring comfort and accessibility for all passengers throughout their entire journey, regardless of cabin class.
Fly with us and enjoy special benefits
Whether you fly with us for business or leisure, you’ll enjoy a range of premium services, including no change fees, extra legroom in both Premier and Premium Class, and the most rewarding mileage plans that offer the quickest route to elite status.
Enjoy the finest in-flight dining with delicious West Coast-inspired dishes and a selection of beverages. Our commitment to the technology-enabled travel experience, continuous airport improvements and talented teams ensure a seamless journey from start to finish.
We’ve also simplified the seat upgrade process: Customers can now upgrade their seat to Premier or Premium Class up to 50 minutes before takeoff on our website or through the Alaska Airlines mobile app.
For detailed visuals of premium seating options and layouts, please view our downloadable media kit.
*When compared to other legacy U.S. airlines, excluding flat-bed option.
Tags: aircraft, airline news, Alaska Airlines, American airline news, economic flexibility, expansion, first class, initiative, main cabin, mainline aircraft, premium class seating, travel experience, travel news
