Alaska Airlines anticipates record Thanksgiving travel volume across West Coast hubs

Airports

Constance von Muehlen Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer | Alaska Airlines

By Sky Industry News

Nov 22, 2024

Thanksgiving is anticipated to be the busiest travel period of the fall, with Alaska Airlines projecting nearly full flights. The airline estimates that nearly half a million guests will fly between Friday and Sunday, with December 1 expected to be the busiest day of the year.

Alaska Airlines expects an increase in passenger numbers across its major West Coast hubs compared to last year. In San Francisco, a 15% rise in passengers is anticipated. Seattle is expected to serve 230,000 guests, marking a 6% increase from last year. Portland is projected to experience the largest surge in passenger volume with a 35% increase or about 85,000 passengers during the holiday weekend.

To facilitate smoother travel experiences, Alaska Airlines offers several tips and resources for travelers. The Alaska Airlines app provides access to essential travel tools such as mobile check-in, real-time flight updates, gate information, and mobile boarding passes. Passengers can also use the app or website to preorder meals up to two weeks before their flight.

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With potential weather-related delays, Alaska Airlines emphasizes flexible travel plans by offering easy rebooking options without change fees. Travelers are encouraged to check ticket counter hours and recommended arrival times before their trip.

For baggage handling, guests can prepay for checked bags via the mobile app. Each guest is allowed one carry-on and one personal item; checked bags incur a $30 fee for the first bag and $45 for the second unless waived for certain members like Elite Mileage Plan holders or U.S. military personnel.

The airline also addresses family travel needs by providing complimentary gate checks for strollers and car seats and ensuring young children are seated with their families at no extra cost.

Alaska Airlines' Mileage Plan allows passengers to earn miles toward future flights on all fares flown. This includes earning miles when flying with oneworld® Alliance member airlines or other worldwide partners.

For inquiries or assistance, travelers can contact Alaska Airlines through phone calls or text messages.