New 787-9 Product Marks Shift Toward Long-Haul Premium Travel
SEATTLE — Alaska Airlines is entering a new phase of international competition with the launch of its first-ever Business Class Suites, a move that signals a strategic shift toward long-haul premium travel. The new product will debut on the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and operate from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, positioning the airline to better compete on transatlantic and transpacific routes.
The rollout includes service to major global destinations such as Rome, London, Seoul, Tokyo, and Reykjavík, further strengthening Alaska’s connectivity through the oneworld Alliance network.
Elevated Cabin Design Targets Premium Travelers
A Fully Enclosed Suite Experience
At the center of Alaska’s new offering is a redesigned Business Class cabin featuring private suites equipped with sliding doors, fully lie-flat beds, and direct aisle access. Each seat converts into a flat sleeping surface tailored for long-haul comfort, aligning the airline with industry standards set by global competitors.
Passengers will also have access to 18-inch high-definition entertainment screens with more than 1,500 movies and TV shows, alongside noise-reducing headsets, personal power outlets, and wireless charging capabilities.
Dining Designed as a Multi-Course Journey
Alaska is placing significant emphasis on onboard dining as a differentiator. The experience begins with a curated cheese and charcuterie board, building on the airline’s existing fruit-and-cheese offering.
The full meal service includes appetizers followed by a choice of up to six entrée options, with menus tailored to specific routes. Examples include pasta carbonara on flights to Rome and Gochujang chicken with banchan on Seoul services. A signature entrée created in collaboration with chef Brady Ishiwata Williams features short rib sourced from Klingemann Farms.
Dessert service introduces a dedicated cart offering customizable Salt & Straw sundaes and artisanal sweets. Before landing, passengers are served destination-inspired meals such as a traditional English breakfast on London routes.
Beverage selections include premium wines from Stag’s Leap, Roederer Champagne, West Coast craft beers, handcrafted cocktails, mineral water, and Stumptown coffee.
Comfort, Amenities, and Connectivity Upgrades
Focus on Rest and Personalization
To enhance onboard rest, Alaska has partnered with Filson to provide premium bedding, including mattress pads, oversized duvets, and ergonomic pillows. Amenity kits—available in two exclusive designs—feature skincare products from Salt & Stone and other long-haul essentials. Each passenger also receives a reusable bottle developed with PATH Water.
Business Class travelers will have access to Alaska lounges and partner lounges worldwide, with additional benefits for elite members within the oneworld alliance.
High-Speed Connectivity via Starlink
The airline is also investing in onboard connectivity, with plans to introduce high-speed Wi-Fi powered by Starlink across its 787-9 fleet beginning this fall. The service will offer gate-to-gate internet access, with complimentary availability tied to Alaska’s partnership with T-Mobile and user login through Atmos Rewards accounts starting in May.
Network Expansion Anchored in Seattle
The introduction of Business Class Suites coincides with Alaska’s broader international expansion strategy. Service to Rome is scheduled to begin April 28, followed by London on May 21 and Reykjavík on May 28. Flights to Seoul will launch in April, with Tokyo service planned later in the year.
While long-haul routes will utilize the 787-9 platform, shorter international routes such as Reykjavík will be operated with the 737 MAX 8, offering a modified premium experience suited to mid-length flights of approximately seven hours.
Strategic Positioning in Global Aviation
Alaska Airlines’ expansion reflects its ambition to establish Seattle as a key international gateway while reinforcing its identity as a West Coast-based global carrier. The airline’s growing footprint within the oneworld alliance, which provides access to more than 900 destinations worldwide, further enhances its competitive positioning.
Executive leadership underscores that the new Business Class Suites are designed to combine premium comfort with Alaska’s established service ethos. Andrew Harrison states that the product aims to redefine long-haul travel while maintaining the airline’s commitment to thoughtful service.
Beyond premium cabins, Alaska continues to invest in the broader passenger experience. Main Cabin travelers will also receive complimentary meals along with Filson blankets and pillows, ensuring a consistent focus on comfort across all classes.
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