Operating a pair of hubs less than 200 miles apart can be incredibly challenging for airlines. Alaska Airlines has a plan, however, to make it work as it grows into its new global operations.
Airplanes and Airports
Southwest’s Funky New Super-Short Florida Routes
It is easy to look at the four new routes Southwest Airlines announced out of Orlando this week in disbelief. But there’s more to it than just a few sub-200 mile routes.
Alaska Airlines’ plan to juice revenues to the islands
Alaska Airlines is legally prohibited from cutting capacity on key routes between Hawai’i and the mainland, part of a deal to secure approval of the merger. But the carrier still has a plan to boost revenue in its islands operations.
Madrid joins JetBlue’s transatlantic network for Summer 2025
JetBlue will fly to Madrid in Summer 2025, part of the carrier’s strategic approach to European service. The route will operate from Boston from 22 May through 24 October.
Alaska Airlines launches long-haul hub at Seattle, pushes premium
Tokyo will be the first long-haul market for Alaska Airlines from its Seattle hub, with a dozen new markets planned by the end of the decade.
US DOT Proposes Passenger Rights Rules, Compensation for Cancels and Delays
The US Department of Transportation published initial guidance for passenger rights rules similar to those in Europe and Canada, promising cash compensation for some delays, plus other customer care benefits.
Alaska Airlines adds local benefits in Hawai’i
Alaska Airlines has a strong history of benefits for locals in its namesake state. Now that’s extending to Hawai’i with the new Huaka‘i by Hawaiian offering.
Spirit Airlines to restructure debt under Chapter 11 protection
Spirit Airlines will enter a voluntary restructuring, including a prearranged Chapter 11 bankruptcy, to reduce the carrier’s debt while it continues flying. The carrier plans to operate normally during the process.
AI Hot Takes: Checking in from APEX EXPO
Questions about Artificial Intelligence were at the forefront of APEX EXPO. Impressions of what GenAI can actually deliver, however, appeared disconnected from reality.
Small airport subsidy winners announced
Fourteen smallish airports will share $12 million in federal funding over the next five years to support growth of their commercial air service. The awards were announced on Thursday as part of the Small Community Air Service Development Program (SCASDP).