Alaska Airlines reports rise in fall bookings amid unique travel trends

Airports

Daniel Chun Regional Vice President, Hawai‘i | Alaska Airlines

By Sky Industry News

Oct 8, 2024

Alaska Airlines has announced the latest travel trends for this fall, highlighting a rise in bookings to less frequented destinations as travelers seek unique experiences. The airline is preparing for the busiest travel period of the year, including Thanksgiving, with increased staffing and expanded flight options.

Thanksgiving is expected to be the peak travel time, with nearly half a million passengers flying between Friday and Sunday. December 1 is projected to be the busiest day of the year. The airline anticipates more passengers at its major West Coast hubs compared to last year. San Francisco expects a 15% increase in passenger numbers, Seattle foresees serving 230,000 guests (a 6% rise), and Portland predicts a 35% surge with 85,000 passengers during the holiday weekend.

There is strong demand for flights to Hawaiʻi as travelers support local recovery efforts following last year's wildfires. Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines offer 66 daily flights from the continental United States to Hawaiʻi.

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Business travel has rebounded in California, prompting Alaska Airlines to add capacity at hubs like San Francisco and San Diego. Latin America has become a popular destination for those seeking warmer climates during fall and winter. The airline now offers routes to Guatemala, Nassau, Mexico from Las Vegas, and La Paz from Los Angeles.

The trend towards unique experiences has led to increased bookings in smaller markets such as Bellingham, Missoula, and Santa Rosa. In response, Alaska Airlines has boosted capacity by up to 40% on certain routes and launched new connections like Santa Rosa to Las Vegas.

November remains a busy month due to Veterans Day weekend getaways. Events such as Austin City Limits and the F1 Grand Prix have spurred demand in Austin, Texas. Boston's fall foliage attracts visitors interested in leaf peeping.

Taylor Swift's concert tour is influencing travel patterns this fall with increased demand in cities like New Orleans, Toronto, Indianapolis, and Vancouver where she performs.

Alaska Airlines emphasizes its commitment to providing an elevated travel experience through award-winning service across its network. This includes features like ample legroom in First Class* and Premium Class*, no change fees, multiple fare offerings, a generous loyalty program through Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan™, partnerships with global airlines for ticket purchases directly on their platforms**, West Coast food and beverage options onboard***.

* Excludes lie-flat seats.

** With domestic and Global Partners.

*** Onboard services vary by route.