Alaska Airlines will soon offer a premium class section, providing a new upgrade choice and elevated flight experience with more legroom and additional perks.
“Premium Class will provide an opportunity for all customers to get an enhanced flight experience,” said Andrew Harrison, executive vice president and chief commercial officer, Alaska Airlines. “We are listening to our customers and they have told us that more personal space and extra perks are a priority.”
Beginning in late 2016, customers will be able to upgrade to the new section and receive priority boarding and three to four extra inches of legroom compared to economy. The upgrade option will be available to Alaska Airlines elite Mileage Plan members on a complimentary basis at booking or day of travel dependent on status and fare purchased.
The carrier plans to retrofit up to 60 aircraft with the premium class section by the end of 2016 and the remainder of its 737-800, -900 and -900ER fleet by the end of 2017. The upgrade option will also be available on Embraer 175s, operated by SkyWest, configured with 12 seats in the premium class section. Preferred Plus seating, currently available for purchase at check-in for bulkhead and exit rows, will continue to be offered on Alaska 737-400s and -700s.
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