Alaska Airlines has recently announced plans to increase the number of first-class seats on Boeing 737-800 aircraft and its Premium Class extra-legroom seats on 737-900ER and 737-9 Max planes. This decision comes as premium products continue to outperform coach seats across the airline industry. With a reported year-over-year revenue increase of 8% for first class and 6% for extra-legroom seats, Alaska Airlines is responding to the growing demand from its valued guests.
The retrofits of more than 200 aircraft are scheduled to begin in the fall and are expected to be completed by the summer of 2026. These retrofits will not only provide more upgrade opportunities for elite members of its Mileage Plan frequent flyer program but also enhance the overall passenger experience. Alaska Airlines is committed to meeting the demand for added comfort and benefits that come with first-class and premium class seats.
On its fleet of 59 737-800s, Alaska Airlines will be increasing its first-class seat total from 12 to 16 while maintaining the number of extra-legroom seats at 30. The retrofits for these planes are set to include new seatback device holders with built-in cup holders throughout the economy and first-class cabins. For the fleet of 79 737-900s and 80 737-9 Max planes, Alaska Airlines will maintain 16 first-class seats but increase the extra-legroom seat count from 24 to 30.
Conversions of the 737-800s are scheduled to begin in early 2025 and be completed by the summer of 2026. Retrofits for the 737-900ERs will last from the fall of this year through next summer, while the Max 9 retrofits are set to begin in spring and be completed by summer 2026. As part of these modifications, the 737-900ERs will also receive an interior refresh, including the addition of device holders in the main cabin.
Alaska Airlines’ decision to increase the number of first-class and premium class seats is a strategic move to cater to the changing preferences and demands of its passengers. By investing in these upgrades and retrofits, the airline is not only enhancing the overall passenger experience but also staying competitive in the ever-evolving airline industry.