SEATTLE- Alaska Airlines (AS) which merged Hawaiian Airlines under its management has big international expansion plans for its Seattle Hub (SEA).
The Seattle-based carrier aims to operate long-haul and ultra-long-haul flights to various destinations in Asia and Europe.
Alaska Airlines Seattle Destinations
According to a slide shared with the airline’s investor, Alaska Airlines presented Seattle as a major international hub in the Alaska Air Group.
According to the airlines’ investor presentation, by 2030, they plan to serve at least 12 long-haul international destinations from Seattle. This expansion will contribute over $1.5 Billion to the group as intercontinental revenue.
The airline has already announced two new routes from Seattle. Beginning in May 2025, Hawaiian Airlines will commence flights between Seattle and Tokyo Narita (NRT), providing Seattleites with direct access to the bustling Japanese capital. Then, in October 2025, Hawaiian will further strengthen its Seattle foothold with the introduction of non-stop service to Seoul (ICN), South Korea.
The roster of potential new destinations reads like a who’s who of global economic and cultural powerhouses. Following are the routes the airline can serve from Seattle with 90% of the global population in its reach:
- Bangkok (BKK)
- Delhi (DEL)
- Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)
- London (LHR)
- Manila (MNL)
- Paris (CDG)
- Rome (FCO)
- Seoul (ICN) ✅
- Tokyo Narita (NRT) ✅
All these routes are well in reach of Alaska Air Group aircraft which now includes Hawaiian Airlines Airbus A330s and Boeing 787 Dreamliners.
Alaska Accelerate
Ben Minicucci, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Alaska Air Group while speaking at its investor day said,
There has never been a more exciting time to be a part of Alaska Air Group. We have built a winning business model that has enabled us to outperform the industry over the past two decades. Now, with the combination with Hawaiian Airlines, we will transform our business and solidify our competitive advantage for years to come.”
Ben Minicucci, CEO of Alaska Air Group
While announcing the Alaska Accelerate, a three-year comprehensive plan to have $1 billion in profit.
The merger establishes a robust network connecting guests globally through four key strategic objectives:
- Global Network Expansion Alaska and Hawaiian will now operate over 1,400 daily flights to 140 cities, enabling access to more than 1,200 destinations worldwide. The Seattle hub will serve as a critical global gateway, featuring long-haul widebody aircraft that optimize passenger connections.
- Hawaiian Market Commitment The airlines aim to become Hawaii’s preferred carrier by providing residents enhanced network access and introducing Huaka’i by Hawaiian, a dedicated loyalty program designed to improve travel flexibility and rewards.
- Premium Travel Experience Significant investments will elevate the passenger experience, including:
- Enhanced airport lobbies and lounges
- Expanded premium seat capacity
- New loyalty platform
- Premium credit card offering
- Future Diversification The merger positions the airline to explore new revenue streams, focusing on cargo growth and technological innovation.
Financial Projections Alaska Air Group anticipates substantial financial gains, with ambitious 2027 targets:
- $1 billion in incremental profit
- Earnings per share exceeding $10
- Pretax profit margins between 11-13%
- Zero margin dilution in the first merger year
- Synergy estimates increased to at least $500 million
Key Financial Projections for 2025:
Capacity: The airline plans to increase capacity by 2% to 3%, indicating measured expansion and strategic network growth.
Earnings Per Share (EPS): The company targets an EPS of at least $5.75, representing a significant 30% increase from the previous year.
Capital Expenditures: Planned investments range from $1.4 to $1.5 billion, focusing on fleet modernization and infrastructure enhancement.
Share Repurchases: Approximately $250 million was allocated for shareholder returns, demonstrating confidence in the company’s financial health.
New Lounges
Alaska Airlines is set to enhance its lounge portfolio by adding two new locations at Honolulu (HNL) and San Diego (SAN) airports, reported OMAAT.
Currently, the airline operates nine lounges across six airports, including Anchorage (ANC), Los Angeles (LAX), New York (JFK), Portland (PDX), San Francisco (SFO), and Seattle (SEA).
In San Diego, Alaska Airlines will convert the existing Aspire Lounge in Terminal 2 into an Alaska Lounge. Previously an American Admirals Club, the lounge currently serves Alaska and American Airlines passengers. The conversion signals an anticipated improvement in lounge quality and amenities. However, travelers should note that Priority Pass access may be discontinued after the transformation.
The Honolulu airport’s lounge position will also see significant changes. The current Plumeria Lounge, known for its underwhelming offerings, serves Priority Pass members and premium customers. In contrast, Hawaiian Airlines’ Apt. 1929 Lounge provides an ultra-premium experience with access starting at $500 per couple.
Despite already operating three lounges in Seattle, Alaska Airlines plans to introduce a groundbreaking lounge concept by 2027. The airline will develop a new flagship lounge, though specific details remain limited.
Feature Image by Clément Alloing | Flickr
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