Alaska Airlines unveils massive premium cabin overhaul in high-end travel race
Alaska Airlines is overhauling its Alaska and Hawaiian cabins to include brand-new top-tier suites, a premium economy class and other features.
Alaska Air Group, encompassing both Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines, has unveiled ambitious plans to elevate its premium travel offerings on both carriers, according to a recent press release. The new flagship experiences, Aurora and LeihōkŪ, promise to revolutionize the in-flight experience for discerning travelers.
Alaska Airlines will debut Aurora Suites, equipped with 34 lie-flat seats on its fleet of 787 Dreamliners. Additionally, select transcontinental routes will see the introduction of 12 lie-flat suites on the new Boeing 737-10 MAX aircraft, set to commence service in 2028. The updated 787-9 Dreamliner will boast approximately 46% premium seating, a significant jump from the current 38%. This premium upgrade is aimed at providing travelers with unparalleled comfort and luxury.
On the Hawaiian Airlines side, a fleet transformation awaits. The airline's 24 Airbus A330 widebody aircraft will be reimagined with 22 LeihōkŪ Suites, bringing the total premium seating to roughly 40% of the cabin, up from the current 30%. The interior renovations are slated to begin in 2028, promising a refined and upscale experience for passengers aboard the A330s.
In a bid to cater to a wider audience, both airlines will introduce Premium Reserve, a new premium economy cabin, slated for launch in 2028. Alaska Airlines will allocate 35 Premium Reserve seats on its 787-9 and 787-10 aircraft, while Hawaiian Airlines will offer 28 seats on its A330 fleet, and 12 seats on its 737-10 MAX. These seats will feature an expansive 38 inches of pitch and enhanced recline with additional leg and calf rests, ensuring maximum comfort.
To support these premium offerings, Alaska Air Group will open a spacious lounge complex at Seattle’s C Concourse in late 2027. The 41,000-square-foot facility will include a 500-seat Alaska Lounge and a 200-seat Aurora Lounge, catering to intercontinental travelers. Hawaiian Airlines plans to introduce a 13,000-square-foot lounge in Honolulu’s Terminal 1 in early 2028, providing a comfortable space for approximately 200 guests.
Both airlines will offer dedicated check-in services, lie-flat seating with privacy doors, state-of-the-art 19-inch 4K entertainment screens, and complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi for Atmos Rewards members through T-Mobile. Alaska Air Group is traded on the New York Stock Exchange as NYSE:ALK.
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