Alaska unveils growth plan post-Hawaiian merger; expands SEA hub

Ben Minicucci, CEO of Alaska Airlines Group, expressed optimism about the new international routes: “From our global gateway in Seattle, we can conveniently connect travelers from across our network as they head to Asia and beyond."

Hawaiian Airlines has not previously operated direct widebody flights from mainland US to international destinations since at least 2000. Meanwhile, Alaska Airlines has never used twin-aisle jets.

The merger positions Alaska Airlines Group to capture significant revenue and cost benefits by 2027. Shane Tackett, CFO of Alaska Airlines Group, emphasized the financial advantages: “And it will drive substantial financial results that will continue to set us apart from our competitors.”

The group expects its capacity to grow by up to 3% in 2025 with earnings per share projected at $5.75 or more. Capital expenditures are estimated between $1.4 billion and $1.5 billion for the year.

“October and November close-in bookings were strong,” noted an official statement from Alaska Airlines regarding their upgraded Q4 outlook.