Travel news, reviews and intel for high-flyers

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines is a major American carrier headquartered in SeaTac, Washington. Founded in 1932, it operates an extensive domestic and international network, primarily serving destinations along the West Coast of the United States. Known for its exceptional customer service, Alaska Airlines offers various amenities, including in-flight entertainment, Wi-Fi, and a mileage loyalty program called Mileage Plan. The airline operates an all-Boeing 737 fleet, including the 737NG and 737 MAX 8/MAX 9.

From locally sourced wraps to a James Beard chef in First Class, Alaska is reimagining how food tells a story

By Enrique Perrella

July 8, 2025

Rome wasn’t built in a day, but Delta’s plan to dominate SEA is picking up speed—with Barcelona and two posh new lounges in the mix

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June 25, 2025

From juicy transfer bonuses to surprise loyalty shifts, June delivers big for points and miles pros. Here’s what to act on now

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Qantas frequent flyers will be able to book reward seats on Hawaiian Airlines flights from Thursday

By Fergus Cole

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Seattle–Rome service launches May 2026 with widebody Dreamliner; Rome becomes Alaska's third intercontinental route from SEA

By Enrique Perrella

June 5, 2025

From a family diner to inflight First Class, Chef Brady brings his Japanese American heritage to Alaska’s new in-flight menu

By Enrique Perrella

May 28, 2025

JetBlue has once again been found to lead the way in terms of economy class legroom in the U.S.

By Fergus Cole

May 27, 2025

Alaska has added Philippine Airlines as its newest global partner, expanding its reach to the Asia-Pacific market

By Enrique Perrella

May 9, 2025

The airline is refreshing its inflight experience with expanded First and Economy Class dishes, crafted by chef Brandon Jew, and the nostalgic return of holographic aircraft trading cards

By Enrique Perrella

May 6, 2025

Expanded San Diego Service Targets Business and Premium Leisure Demand

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April 24, 2025

FAQ

How much does Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan cost?

Customers can sign up to Alaska Airline Mileage Plan free of charge. Points are earned primarily per mile flown - as opposed to dollars spent - and can also be acquired by using Alaska Airline credit cards and booking specific hotels. When you have enough, these can then be spent on flights, cabin upgrades, and hotels.

Alaska’s recent inclusion into the Oneworld Alliance means that customers can now earn and spend miles with 23 partner airlines, opening up over 900 destinations worldwide. Those spending enough time in the air can unlock ‘Elite Status’, which has four distinct tiers, each one with its own benefits. These include automatic upgrades to first class, better points to mile ratios and complimentary flight changes. Alaska Airlines Elite Status also transfers over to Oneworld Alliance members, albeit with different perks.

What are Alaska Airlines' ticketing options?

Alaska Airline offers three types of fare:

Saver

The budget friendly offering provides a cheap way to travel, without bells and whistles.

 No seat selection
 Last boarding and overhead storage access
 Limited usage of mileage plan Elite Benefits
 No flight changes (outside of 24 cancellation policy)
 Points earned per mile flown
 One free carry-on

Main Class

Alaska’s middle of the range package, striking a balance between comfort and cost.

 Seat selection within the main cabin
 General boarding and overhead storage access
 Usage of Mileage Plan elite benefits
 Flight changes available
 Points earned per mile flown

Main Class Premium

Offers everything main class does, but with a few added perks:

 Seat selection within the main cabin
 General boarding and overhead storage access
 Usage of Mileage Plan elite benefits
 Flight changes available
 Points earned per mile flown
 Complimentary beverages
 Board and exit before main class
 Four inches extra legroom

First Class

As Alaska’s most luxurious package, first class offers the full range of perks and amenities.

 Seat selection
 First to board and first to exit
 Priority use of overhead storage access
 Use of Mileage Plan elite benefits
 Flight changes available
 Points earned per mile flown
 Access to Alaska lounges
 Free food and beverages
 Two free checked-in bags

What are Alaska Airlines' baggage fees?

All Alaska Airlines passengers are allowed to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item such as a laptop.
Carry on dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches
Checked baggage is charged at the following rate, unless you have a first class seat, in which case you are allowed two free checked in bags.
 1st bag - $30
 2nd bag - $40
 3rd bag - $100
*Any bags that have a maximum dimension of over 62 inches or weigh more than 50 lbs are charged at $100 as standard.