Alaska Airlines announced a historic fleet expansion, ordering 105 new 737-10 aircraft and five 787 widebody aircraft from Boeing. This significant investment, the largest in the airline's history, extends aircraft deliveries through 2035 and supports the company's strategic plan for global growth.
Key Takeaways
- Alaska Airlines placed its largest-ever order for 105 Boeing 737-10s and five 787s.
- The order includes options for 35 additional 737-10 aircraft.
- This expansion supports international routes, including new services to Europe and Asia.
- A new global livery for the 787 widebody aircraft reflects the airline's international vision.
Fueling Global Expansion and Modernization
The new order secures crucial delivery slots for Alaska Airlines. It enables the airline to continue its steady growth. The aircraft will help expand to more destinations worldwide.
Ben Minicucci, CEO of Alaska Air Group, emphasized the importance of this partnership. He stated the airline is 'incredibly proud to be partnering with Boeing.' Boeing is a 'Pacific Northwest neighbor' and 'a company that stands as a symbol of American innovation and manufacturing.'
Fast Fact
The new order brings Alaska's total orderbook with Boeing to 245 aircraft. This is in addition to the 94 MAX aircraft currently in operation.
Enhancing Fleet Efficiency and Passenger Experience
This fleet investment will help Alaska maintain one of the youngest fleets in the industry. It will also be among the most fuel-efficient for any premium global airline. The order includes a mix of growth aircraft and replacements for older 737s.
Alaska Airlines currently operates a narrowbody fleet that includes 737-9 and 737-8 aircraft. The airline retains the flexibility to adjust its 737-10 order to a different model if necessary. This shows a strategic approach to future fleet needs.
The Role of the 787 Widebody Aircraft
The five additional 787 widebody aircraft are central to the Alaska Accelerate strategic plan. These planes will allow the airline to fly to at least 12 long-haul international destinations from Seattle by 2030. The order increases the firm future 787 widebody fleet to 17 aircraft. Five 787s are already operating across the network.
Strategic Vision
By 2030, Alaska Air Group expects to operate a fleet of more than 475 aircraft. This number is projected to exceed 550 aircraft by 2035. This growth reflects the airline's ambition to become the country’s fourth largest global airline.
A New Look for International Travel
During the announcement event in Seattle, Alaska Airlines unveiled the first 787-9 painted in its new global livery. The design draws inspiration from the Aurora Borealis, featuring deep midnight blues and lush emerald greens. This new exterior symbolizes the airline's international growth.
"As we transform into the country’s fourth largest global airline, we are proud to introduce a new, global livery for the Alaska brand. The design is a tribute to Alaska’s rich history and a reflection of our bold vision for international growth and our commitment to connect the Pacific Northwest to the world."
Artists spent nearly 1000 hours over 13 days to paint the aircraft exterior. This intricate process used a new painting technique, bringing the striking design to life from nose to tail.
Connecting the Pacific Northwest to the World
The core Alaska Airlines brand expression, featuring the Alaska Native on the tail, will remain for narrowbody aircraft flying within North America. The Hawaiian Airlines brand will continue its service to, from, and within the Hawaiian Islands with Pualani on its aircraft.
New international routes from Seattle are already available for booking. These include:
- London Heathrow, United Kingdom: Daily, year-round flights beginning May 21, 2026.
- Rome, Italy: Daily, summer seasonal flights beginning April 28, 2026.
- Reykjavik, Iceland: Daily, summer seasonal flights beginning May 28, 2026 (operated on a 737-8 MAX).
Existing year-round flights include Tokyo Narita, Japan (daily service), and Seoul Incheon, South Korea (five-times-weekly service).
Expanding Global Reach
Alaska Air Group, which includes Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and Horizon Air, serves over 140 destinations. These span North America, Latin America, Asia, and the Pacific. Europe will join this network in spring 2026.
Alaska is a member of the oneworld alliance. Hawaiian Airlines is scheduled to join the alliance in spring 2026. This membership allows guests to earn and redeem points for travel to over 1,000 worldwide destinations through Atmos Rewards.
