Alaska Airlines has officially received its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on December 6, 2024. The aircraft, which arrived in a pristine white finish, completed its ferry flight from Charleston International Airport (CHS) in under five hours. This new addition marks a significant step in the airline’s expansion into international markets, with plans to unveil a new livery, named “Aurora Livery,” by January 2026.
Strategic Expansion and New Identity
The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, tail number N784HA, represents Alaska Airlines’ commitment to enhancing its long-haul service capabilities. This aircraft is the first 787 to join the fleet that was not part of the merger with Hawaiian Airlines. Originally ordered by Hawaiian, this particular Dreamliner will now feature the “Aurora Livery,” inspired by the Northern Lights, a natural phenomenon closely associated with Alaska’s identity.
Andrew Harrison, Alaska Airlines’ Chief Commercial Officer, remarked on the significance of the new design, stating, “Our new 787 exterior embodies Alaska’s transition to a global airline with beauty, grace and a nod to our heritage… we’re eager for more and more travelers to recognize our new livery.” This fresh identity aims not only to enhance the airline’s presence on the tarmac but also to reflect its growing international reach.
Alaska Airlines is in the process of reorganizing its fleet, with plans to convert some 787-9 orders to the larger 787-10 variant. As these aircraft migrate to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), they will enable the airline to serve an increasing number of international destinations.
International Routes and Passenger Experience
Starting in the spring of 2026, Alaska Airlines will offer two direct, non-stop routes from Sea-Tac: one to London Heathrow (LHR) and another to Reykjavik International Airport (KEF). This expansion is part of a broader strategy to increase the number of international destinations served from Seattle, which currently stands at five. The airline aims to grow this to twelve by 2030. The London route will operate year-round, with Alaska Airlines reporting that over 400 passengers travel across North America and the Atlantic daily.
In collaboration with American Airlines and British Airways, Alaska is positioning itself as a key player in transatlantic travel, creating a gateway to Europe from the Pacific Northwest. This strategic approach allows seamless connections for travelers heading to other West Coast locations, including Hawaii and Alaska.
Onboard the new Dreamliners, passengers will experience a premium travel environment. The aircraft features 34 enclosed business class suites, each equipped with fully lie-flat seats and privacy doors. The three-class cabin configuration accommodates a total of 300 seats, including a Premium Class section with 79 extra-legroom seats. While not classified as a separate premium economy, this section offers enhanced comfort and service perks, including complimentary cocktails.
The economy class comprises 187 seats arranged in a 3-3-3 configuration, complete with seatback screens and Bluetooth audio. Each seat is equipped with both USB-A and USB-C power ports, ensuring modern connectivity for long-haul travelers.
Alaska Airlines’ introduction of the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner signifies not only an investment in its fleet but also an evolution in its operational strategy. As the airline embraces international markets, it aims to provide passengers with an exceptional travel experience, reflected in both its new aircraft and the innovative services it plans to offer.
