Alaska Airlines has revealed plans to increase its fleet with 30 new aircraft and expand its route network with a new international destination.
Today, the Seattle-based carrier announced it expects domestic demand to return to pre-COVID levels by summer 2022. Because of this, Alaska Airlines is preparing for recovery and growth with more aircraft.
Alaska Airlines' regional fleet will soon grow to 111 aircraft with 71 operated by its Horizon Air subsidiary and 40 with regional affiliate SkyWest Airlines. Today, Alaska has decided to order 17 more Embraer 175s. Eight will go to SkyWest and enter service in 2022. The other nine E175s are headed to Horizon Air and will be delivered in 2022 and 2023.
"Regional aircraft play a huge role in Alaska's growing network," said Nat Pieper, senior vice president of fleet, finance and alliances. "As our network expands, regional aircraft connect smaller communities to our larger hubs providing critical feed to assist in the development of new markets."
Additionally, Alaska Airlines has decided to exercise 13 options for the Boeing 737 MAX 9 with deliveries in 2023 and 2024. This brings the airline's total firm 737 MAX 9 fleet count to 81 aircraft once all have been delivered.
Finally, Alaska has announced its latest destination - Belize City, Belize in Central America. The carrier has not announced the specific aircraft, frequency, and routes, but has indicated intentions to fly to Belize from the West Coast. Belize will be the fourth country Alaska flies to from the West Coast following Canada, Mexico and Costa Rica.
"Our guests are eager for more eco-friendly leisure destinations, especially as they get vaccinated, and we're ready to offer them terrific options," said Brett Catlin, Alaska Airlines vice president of network and alliances. "Belize offers an unbeatable mix of sensational beaches, iconic cayes and rich heritage."
Routes, schedules, and aircraft for Alaska's flights to Belize will be announced in early June.
All Photos by Alaska Airlines
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