Alaska Airlines Launches New Inflight Menu and Cozy First Class Perks
The airline is now providing comfortable blankets, amenities, and a meal program that has been thoughtfully paired with its inflight entertainment options
by George Gomez
November 14, 2024
This fall, Alaska Airlines is bringing a taste of the West Coast sky-high with an array of exciting new offerings to enhance its passengers’ journey.
From refreshing beverages to cozy onboard amenities, the Seattle-based airline’s passengers can now expect a new array of premium perks and an upgraded set of amenities in the front of the cabin.
Premier Refreshments
Kicking things off, Alaska will be the first major U.S. carrier to introduce Lagunitas Hoppy Refresher, a citrusy, non-alcoholic sparkling water crafted by Petaluma-based Lagunitas Brewing Company.
Available starting November 20, this beverage will be complimentary for First and Premium Class guests and offered for purchase in the Main Cabin. Light, crisp, and infused with a refreshing hoppy twist, it promises to be a thirst-quenching hit for craft beverage enthusiasts.
For travelers craving a sophisticated twist, the Straightaway Nitro Espresso Martini, made with Portland’s famed Stumptown Coffee, delivers a smooth, ready-to-drink cocktail that balances indulgence with flavor.
“We’re jazzed to get up in the air with Alaska Airlines and welcome their flyers into our pack of misfits, offering them a crispy, zingy, hoppily refreshing sparkling water to kick back and enjoy throughout their flight,” enthused Hannah Dray, Chief Marketing Officer at Lagunitas Brewing Company.
In October 2013, Alaska Airlines partnered with Stumptown Coffee Roasters to create a unique coffee blend designed to taste better at high altitudes. With the inclusion of the Straightaway Nitro Espresso Martini, the airline is increasing its portfolio of inflight coffee-based beverages.
Cozy Comfort and Well-Being at Altitude
In addition to the liquid additions to the airline’s inflight menu, Alaska Airlines is teaming up with Filson, a Pacific Northwest staple, to offer soft, durable blankets exclusively for First Class passengers on select routes beginning in December.
“Filson is proud to partner with Alaska Airlines to bring a taste of our outdoor gear to the skies,” said Alex Carleton, Filson’s Chief Creative Officer. Designed with care, these blankets provide comfort and style, making the airline’s longer journeys more comfortable and enjoyable.
Passengers can also enjoy the new Salt & Stone amenities, featuring uplifting soap and lotions with notes of Italian Bergamot, grapefruit, and vetiver.
Available in Alaska Lounges and onboard restrooms, these products are part of the airline’s commitment to provide an upgraded experience to its guests.
Winter Culinary Updates
Alaska Airlines is set to launch a revamped inflight menu starting in November as part of its seasonal enhancements. The airline aims to elevate the inflight experience by not only pairing meals with its wide selection of beverages but also suggesting the perfect movie or TV show to accompany the meal. This is all part of its extensive entertainment library, which features over 800 films and TV shows.
For instance, Alaska Airlines points passengers seeking a light and refreshing option in the direction of the Spice is Right Salad, which brings together crisp romaine, ancient grains, roasted sweet potatoes, and a kick of zingy tahini dressing—ideal for adding a touch of warmth and brightness to their travels.
For passengers craving something hearty, the Cubano Sliders combine tender pork loin and Black Forest ham with Swiss cheese and pickles, all tucked into sweet slider buns, offering a savory bite that pairs well with laughter-filled holiday classics.
In the First Class cabin, the airline highlights its Maple Chicken, a comforting main course. The marinated chicken breast is topped with a rich black pepper and thyme jus and served alongside creamy potato gratin and roasted Brussels sprouts. The airline says this dish is a fitting companion to cozy, feel-good films like Elf.
For a flavorful vegan twist, the Mediterranean Falafel Bowl brings fried chickpea falafel atop a bed of cauliflower mash with roasted carrots and a punchy romesco sauce, perfect for adding a bit of festive, plant-based cheer.
Available for pre-order, these dishes are a spirited addition to any holiday flight. And the airline invites its guests not to miss the return of the “Beets So Fly” salad in the Main Cabin—romaine and mixed greens with pickled beets, cucumbers, walnuts, and creamy feta.
Pre-Order for a Tailored Experience
The airline’s vibrant and ever-evolving food and beverage program has achieved noteworthy recognition, earning a nomination in this year’s Business Traveler Awards. This acknowledgment highlights the program’s recent upgrades and its exceptional variety of offerings and its recent partnership with Michelin-starred chef, Brandon Jew.
Passengers can explore a diverse menu and pre-order from an enticing selection of gourmet, hot, and freshly prepared meals on most flights that cover over 1,100 miles.
The convenience of meal pre-ordering is accessible through the Alaska App or the airline’s website, allowing travelers to secure their preferred meals from two weeks up to 20 hours before departure.