Alaska Airlines takes delivery of its first Boeing 737-8
Alaska Airlines announced Thursday that it has taken delivery of its first Boeing 737-8, the next component of its long-term strategic fleet plan.
“The addition of the 737-8 and eventually the 737-10 to our fleet creates new opportunities for us to fly longer nonstop routes and maximize our revenue potential,” said Nat Pieper, Alaska Airlines senior vice president of fleet, finance and alliances.
In March 2022, Alaska adjusted its 737-9 aircraft order with Boeing to include the 737-10 and 737-8.
Beginning June 13, 2024, the airline will add a new seasonal nonstop route between Anchorage and New York-JFK to be operated with the 737-8.
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Anchorage-New York-JFK (3,386 miles) will become the longest flight operated by Alaska Airlines.
The airline is scheduled to take delivery of seven more 737-8s in 2024, with the next four scheduled to enter the fleet in March.
Between 2024 and 2027, the airline expects to add 15 to 25 new Boeing aircraft each year. It currently has firm orders for 80 737 MAX aircraft, and options and purchase rights for an additional 105. Delivery of the first 737-10 is scheduled for 2025.
Horizon Air to increase its fleet
Alaska Airlines’ regional carrier, Horizon Air, will also increase its jet fleet. Over the next three years, it will add nine Embraer E175s, bringing its total to 50 by the end of 2026.
Alaska Airlines partner SkyWest also operates 42 Embraer E175 aircraft for the company.
Boeing 737-800 cabin refreshed
Alaska Airlines announced that it will renovate the cabins of its Boeing 737-800 aircraft. With an investment of $130 million, the modifications will begin by the end of 2024.
Upgrades to the 737-800s include a change to a 161-seat configuration with 16 seats in First Class and new seats in Premium Class and Main Cabin.
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