Alaska Air Group outlines expansion plans for Seattle-Tacoma airport

The group plans to reposition Airbus A330 widebodies from Hawaiian Airlines' fleet for these new flights. They highlighted Seattle's strategic location as an international hub due to its proximity to 90% of the world's population compared to other West Coast airports like San Francisco and Los Angeles.

Alaska Air Group intends to enhance its hub structure at both Seattle and Portland International Airport (PDX). This adjustment aims to provide more one-stop connections and unlock new demand pools. The addressable North American guests in Seattle are expected to grow by 20% to 35.5 million.

Harrison emphasized Portland's role in freeing up Seattle for high-value international traffic. By August 2025, Alaska Air Group plans to offer more connecting seats and destinations from Seattle than competitors at major US West Coast hubs.

Seattle is identified as a significant market for Asia and Oceania demand within the US. Harrison noted that including loyal guests from surrounding states increases the potential passenger pool significantly.

Despite existing competition on some routes like those between Seattle and London Heathrow or Paris Charles De Gaulle airports, Alaska Air Group sees opportunities leveraging its regional strength. With a notable Indian community around Seattle, there is potential for serving destinations in Asia such as India.