Alaska Airlines Expands International Reach with Boeing 787-10 Order and Enhanced Lounge Perks

Alaska Airlines is set to bolster its international long-haul capabilities by converting some of its existing Boeing 787-9 orders to the larger 787-10 Dreamliner. This strategic move coincides with enhanced benefits for holders of the new Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite Credit Card, including expanded access and premium offerings at Alaska Lounges.

Key Takeaways

• Alaska Airlines has ordered the largest variant of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, the 787-10.
• This expansion supports the airline’s growing international long-haul network.
• Atmos Rewards Summit cardholders now receive complimentary premium cocktails at Alaska Lounges.

Expanding the International Fleet

Alaska Airlines has confirmed a deal to acquire the Boeing 787-10, the largest model in the Dreamliner family. This decision involves converting a portion of the airline’s existing 787-9 backlog. While specific numbers and delivery timelines are yet to be disclosed, this move signifies a significant step in Alaska’s international ambitions. The airline, which merged with Hawaiian Airlines in September 2024, has been actively expanding its long-haul routes from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). New destinations include Tokyo, Seoul, Rome, Reykjavik, and London, with plans to operate around 12 international routes from SEA by 2030.

The 787-10 offers a higher passenger capacity, seating up to 336 passengers in a two-class configuration, which is 40 more than the 787-9. This increased capacity, coupled with comparable operating economics, makes the 787-10 an attractive option for busy routes where extended range is not a primary concern. Many European and Asian destinations, including London, Paris, Seoul, and Tokyo, are within the 7,284-mile range of the 787-10 from SEA, especially with polar routings. However, the 787-9 will remain crucial for destinations exceeding this range.

Enhanced Lounge Experience for Cardholders

In conjunction with its loyalty program relaunch as Atmos Rewards, Alaska Airlines is enhancing perks for its premium credit cardholders. Holders of the new Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite Credit Card will now enjoy an elevated bar program at Alaska Lounges. This includes access to a mixologist-curated menu featuring seasonal cocktails made with premium spirits.

Specifically, Atmos Rewards Summit cardholders can enjoy complimentary premium cocktails, such as "The Summit Sunset," a Woodford Reserve bourbon-based drink, and nonalcoholic options like "Citrus Bloom" and "Spiced Mule." This elevated bar service is currently available at all three Alaska Lounge locations in Seattle and will be rolled out to all other Alaska Lounge locations by October. Cardholders can treat themselves and a companion to these premium beverages at no extra cost. For those without the Summit card, these premium drinks are available for an upcharge.

The Atmos Rewards Summit card also offers other benefits, including eight Alaska Lounge passes annually, global companion awards, travel delay protection, and the ability to transfer points to hotel loyalty programs. These new lounge perks are seen as a strategic move by Alaska Airlines to attract and retain its premium cardholders, potentially drawing them back to Alaska Lounges amidst increasing competition.

Sources

• Alaska orders Boeing’s largest 787, The Points Guy.
• Atmos Rewards Summit cardholders now get free cocktails at Alaska Airlines lounges, The Points Guy.