Starting September, Alaska Airlines will roll out additional First Class and Premium Class seating across more than 200 of their aircraft, including 900ERs, 800s and MAX9s. This expansion will add 1.3 million premium seats annually to the mainline fleet. Earlier this year, the airline successfully retrofitted our entire regional fleet, adding 400,000 Premium Class seats to our E175 aircraft.
More First Class and Premium seating
By increasing the number of seats available in these classes, the airline is making it easier than ever for guests to upgrade while also meeting the growing demand for premium seating.
First Class
In partnership with RECARO, Alaska Airlines has further enhanced this offering to provide guests with ultimate comfort. The new First Class seats installed on the 737-800 fleet will continue to boast the most legroom and features include a calf rest, new seatback device holder, 6-way headrest with neck support and USB-C charging capabilities.
Premium Class & Main Cabin
In Main Cabin and Premium Class of the 737-800 fleet, guests will continue to experience comfort and convenience at every seat with improved features, including new device holders with built in cup holders, USB-C charging and a 6-way headrest with dedicated neck support.
As they modify the 737-900ER fleet to increase Premium Class by converting six of our Main Cabin seats, these aircraft will receive an interior refresh, bringing modern touches like device holders in the main cabin to the backbone of our fleet. All MAX9 aircraft, among the newest in our fleet, will also get six additional seats converted to their Premium cabins, enhancing the comfort and luxury that guests can enjoy.
Meeting demand and enhancing availability
The decision to increase the number of First Class and Premium Class seats comes in response to growing demand from guests. Many travelers seek the added comfort and benefits of these classes, and the airline is committed to meeting this demand. So, whether you are traveling for business or leisure, upgrading their seats will now be more accessible than ever.
The Premium Cabin performance continues to support what the airline believes is a structural shift in higher demand for premium products. First Class and Premium Class revenues finished up 8 percent and 6 percent respectively, during this quarter, with our First Class load factor hitting 71 percent for the quarter, up 4.3 points. The paid premium capacity has come a long way from the days of paid load factors in the 40 percent range for mainline and all-coach regional fleet.
Maintaining convenience with four lavatories
Even with the introduction of additional premium seats, the Boeing fleet of aircraft will maintain four lavatories for use, keeping in mind the convenience and accessibility for all guests, regardless of their seating class.
Premium perks
Whether guests are traveling for business or pleasure, they can enjoy our premium offerings on any Alaska flight, such as no change fees, extra legroom in First Class and Premium Class and the most generous Mileage Plan with the quickest path to elite status.
Onboard, guests can treat themselves to industry-leading food and beverage service, featuring high-quality West Coast-inspired meals and a premium selection of drinks. The airline’s tech-savvy travel experience, airport investments and remarkable employees ensure a comfortable flight every step of the way.
And lastly, Alaska Airlines is making it easier for guests to upgrade! Now guests can upgrade to First or Premium Class up to 50 minutes before departure on www.alaskaair.com or through the Alaska Airlines mobile app.
