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Alaska Airlines Unveils the Largest Fleet Order in Its History

In a significant move for the airline industry, Alaska Airlines has officially announced an extraordinary fleet expansion that includes an order for 105 new Boeing 737-10 aircraft and five Boeing 787 widebody aircraft. This announcement marks a pivotal moment in the airline's growth trajectory, positioning it for an ambitious future in expanding its service offerings.

A Historic Milestone

This latest order is the largest in Alaska Airlines' history and reflects the company's confidence in its strategic vision. CEO Ben Minicucci emphasized how the investment aligns with the Alaska Accelerate strategic plan, aiming for sustainable growth and operational efficiency. These new aircraft are set to enhance the airline's capabilities to serve an expanding network of international destinations, particularly across Europe and Asia.

With this transaction, Alaska Airlines has not only secured critical delivery slots but has also extended its delivery timeline to 2035. Importantly, this order includes options for an additional 35 737-10 jets, ensuring the airline maintains flexibility as market demands evolve.

Modernizing the Fleet

This massive fleet upgrade will allow Alaska Airlines to retire its older aircraft and operate one of the youngest fleets in the industry. Currently, with a total order book of 245 aircraft with Boeing, including 94 MAX aircraft already operational, this order will facilitate a remarkable modernization of the airline's fleet and service standards.

The addition of the Boeing 787s is particularly noteworthy. These aircraft will provide the necessary infrastructure to support long-haul international flights and allow Alaska Airlines to explore new global routes. By 2030, it is expected that the airline will operate at least twelve long-haul international destinations originating from its Seattle hub.

A Nod to Innovation and Sustainability

Alaska Airlines has garnered attention not just for its size but also for its commitment to sustainability. The new aircraft will feature state-of-the-art technology aimed at reducing fuel consumption and minimizing emissions, a crucial consideration in today’s aviation industry.

As part of this expansion strategy, the airline plans to introduce its new global livery, inspired by the stunning natural phenomenon of the Aurora Borealis. This fresh visual identity will adorn the first Boeing 787-9, symbolizing Alaska Airlines' commitment to its roots while embracing a broader international outlook.

Connecting the World

In conjunction with these plans, the airline has opened bookings for several new routes to Europe and Asia. For example, customers can expect daily flights to London Heathrow starting May 21, 2026, and summer seasonal flights to Rome and Reykjavik soon after. This strategic expansion not only enhances Alaska Airlines' offerings but also creates more travel opportunities for its guests, fostering greater connectivity between the Pacific Northwest and international destinations.

By investing in advanced aircraft and emphasizing customer experience, Alaska Airlines aims to provide guests with the newest, most efficient travel options available in the market.

As the airline prepares for this monumental growth, it continues to reaffirm its service commitment, ensuring that Alaska Airlines remains a strong contender in the global aviation landscape.

With a current fleet of 413 aircraft, and a forecast to exceed 475 by 2030 and over 550 by 2035, Alaska Airlines is poised for an exciting future. The airline’s aggressive expansion reflects a robust confidence in the travel sector's recovery and growth, heralding a new chapter in its storied history.

As the airline marks this historic milestone, industry observers and passengers alike will be eager to see how these developments unfold, and how Alaska Airlines enhances its network and service excellence across various international gateways.