author

Written by Sanjeev Bhati

Alaska Airlines is one of the most respected airlines in North America, there's no deny it. They offers its customers great quality service and experiences with regard to their premium flights. The reason why Alaska Airlines premium cabin is called "First Class" is because, in reality, it can be compared to business class for most domestic and intercontinental flights. For all those people who wish to travel in premium comfort without having to pay exorbitant rates as they do for first class seats on international flights, it would be wise to choose Alaska Airlines. In the following, you will find a detailed guide with regards to Alaska Airlines First Class seats.

What Is Alaska Airlines Business Class?

Alaska Airlines Business Class: A Complete Guide

Unlike other airlines across the world, Alaska Airlines categorizes its aircraft into a premium class that is referred to as First Class and not business and first classes.

The premium cabin class will be available on:

  • Flights within the United States
  • Flights headed to Canada, Mexico, and Costa Rica

The passengers will enjoy better services compared to those flying in economy.

Alaska Airlines Business Class: Relive The Experience

Cabin & Seats

The major advantage of staying in the premium cabin at Alaska Airline is the seating comfort.

Seat Layout

There are only two-seat layouts for all the planes which also do not have any middle seats which are really great for single passengers as well as couples.

Seat Comfort

Comfort with seats includes:

  • About 40-42 inches of legroom
  • Width is around 21 inches
  • Recline with adequate leg room
  • Ergonomic headrests and foot rests

Unlike in most of the luxury carriers, it is not possible to convert these seats into a bed but they will be very comfortable for around five-six hours of flight. 

Types of Aircraft

This experience will vary depending on the aircraft type used for flights:

  • Boeing 737 fleet
  • Embraer 175 (only for regional flights)

Compared to ultra-luxurious carriers like Emirates and Singapore Airlines, the service offered by Alaska Airlines is not too complicated. However, compared to all the other airlines in North America, it is quite competitive.

Dining and Beverages Service

Compared to other domestic airlines, Alaska Airlines provides impressive service in terms of the dining experience.

Selection of Meal

The selection of meals offered to business-class passengers includes a variety of meals that represent West Coast dishes, made from fresh ingredients. Generally, a selection of meals is comprised of:

  • Proteins – such as chicken and fish
  • Salads and grains-based meals
  • Vegan and vegetarian options

With the duration of the flight, the meals provided become richer and planned well.

Advance Pre-order

What makes Alaska unique is that the customers can order their meals before the flight, which will ensure that the meal of your choice will definitely be available.

Selection of Beverages

The list of beverages includes:

  • Wine and craft beer provided for free
  • Special cocktails
  • Soft drinks
  • Starbucks-branded coffee

Entertainment Choices and In-Flight Wi-Fi Connection

Alaska Airlines demonstrates foresight regarding their entertainment choices.

Choice of Streaming Entertainment

Instead of seat-mounted screen entertainment, Alaska Airlines offers streaming entertainment to their passengers:

  • Content that can be accessed through a personal gadget
  • Easy connection procedure via in-flight Wi-Fi

In-flight Wi-Fi access

The in-flight Wi-Fi connection option on Alaska Airlines flights is available for a fee and is good for:

  • Internet surfing
  • Chatting
  • Streaming content

Though some may enjoy the seat-mounted screens, there are those who may find the convenience of accessing streaming content through their gadgets more appealing.

Ground Experience

The premium service begins even before the customer steps aboard the plane.

Priority Services

Business-class passengers are treated to numerous facilities such as:

  • Exclusive check-in counters
  • Priority security check-ins (where required)
  • Priority boarding (Group A)

Lounge Access

Unlike the rest of international airlines, lounge access is not granted automatically. Entry into the Alaska Lounge requires either:

  • Participation in the loyalty program and
  • Eligibility through elite status or chosen international routes

Regardless of the possible flaw, the onboard experience is very fulfilling indeed.

Baggage Policy

The baggage policy is equally accommodating when traveling in business class in Alaska.

Free Checked Baggage

  • 2 pieces
  • Delivered at priority on arrival

Carry-on Baggage

  • 1 regular piece
  • 1 personal item

This policy will prove to be quite useful for frequent travellers.

Route & Network

North America is the primary focus for Alaska Airlines when considering geographical areas.

Domestic Routes

The major hubs for this airline are:

  • Seattle
  • Portland
  • Los Angeles
  • San Francisco

International Routes

Apart from the above, Alaska Airlines provides service to:

  • Mexico
  • Costa Rica
  • Canada

Though Alaska Airlines does not have an extensive international route network like other airlines such as Delta Air Lines and American Airlines, it is a leader in regional routes.

Loyalty Miles Scheme and Upgrades

The other strength of Alaska Airlines comes from the company’s loyalty scheme.

Loyalty Miles Scheme

Alaska Airlines Loyalty Miles Scheme is one of the most impressive schemes in the entire aviation industry. The strengths include:

  • Competitive exchange rates
  • An airline partner of the oneworld alliance
  • International earning and redemption of miles

Upgrades

A passenger can gain entry into premium seats by way of:

  • Upgrades through elite status
  • Upgrades that cost money when making booking/checking in
  • Using mileage points

Pricing and Value

Prices of first-class tickets vary depending on the route of the plane:

  • Short-distance flights: reasonable price gap from economy class
  • Long-distance flights: very expensive prices

Is It a Good Idea?

It depends on:

  • Flight duration
  • Need for comfort
  • Budget

Compared to other airlines, Alaska Airlines is known for offering:

  • Better services
  • Good pricing
  • Satisfied customers

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Comfortable seats
  • Quality food and drinks
  • Reliable and pleasant services
  • Loyalty programs are outstanding

Cons

  • No reclined beds
  • Limited lounges access
  • No in-flight entertainment screens

Booking Alaska Airlines First Class Tips

Book Early

Prices are usually higher closer to the day of departure.

Miles

A redemption using your Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan Miles is definitely going to be worthwhile.

Upgrade Later

Sometimes upgrading later could turn out to be cheaper.

Correct Plane

Different planes offer different seating experience.

Who Should Fly Alaska Business Class?

  • Domestic business travellers
  • Affluent passengers desiring luxury without paying first-class fare
  • Frequent flyers loyal to the one world airline alliance

Passengers Unsuitable For This Class:

  • Lavish business travellers seeking international-style business class
  • Travellers needing sleep in lie-flat seats due to long flights

Conclusion

In conclusion, Alaska Airlines First Class is a good example of comfort and value for money. This airline may not compete regarding the services provided to the long-distance business class, but it is doing fantastically well in its segment.

FAQs about Alaska Airlines Business Class: A Complete Guide

Do Alaska Airlines have flat beds in their business class?

They don't offer flat bed seats, but they have reclining seats. This is which makes it suitable for short and medium-haul flights.

Does Alaska Airlines offer any lounges for business class passengers?

There are no lounges offered in Alaska Airlines business class except Alaska lounge, which is accessible only when you are part of the elite program, qualifying international flights, or Alaska lounge members.

How much luggage can you check in Alaska Airlines business class?

Passengers flying in Alaska Airlines business class can check two pieces of luggage and one personal bag and one piece of carry-on luggage.

Is it possible to get Alaska Airlines business class by earning miles?

Yes, it is possible to get Alaska Airlines business class by earning miles through Alaska Mileage Plan.

Are there meals served in Alaska Airlines business class?

Meals and beverages are free in Alaska Airlines business class, and you can even request meals before your flight.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ's)

They don't offer flat bed seats, but they have reclining seats. This is which makes it suitable for short and medium-haul flights.
There are no lounges offered in Alaska Airlines business class except Alaska lounge, which is accessible only when you are part of the elite program, qualifying international flights, or Alaska lounge members.
Passengers flying in Alaska Airlines business class can check two pieces of luggage and one personal bag and one piece of carry-on luggage.
Yes, it is possible to get Alaska Airlines business class by earning miles through Alaska Mileage Plan.
Meals and beverages are free in Alaska Airlines business class, and you can even request meals before your flight.