Alaska Air Group Inc Stock Price, News & Analysis

Alaska Airlines has upgraded its inflight entertainment portal for a better user experience. Passengers can now access over 1,100 movies and TV shows on personal devices with reduced steps. The system also supports streaming-fast satellite Wi-Fi across 80% of its mainline fleet. The airline is committed to offering a diverse content selection, showcasing independent filmmakers, including holiday films. Safety remains a priority with over 100 health measures implemented. Alaska Airlines aims to enhance flight comfort while providing low fares and excellent service.

Alaska Airlines has partnered with travel2change to enhance guest experiences in Hawaii by providing opportunities for volunteer activities that benefit local communities. Launched on November 8, 2021, this initiative aims to promote mindful travel while helping to restore native ecosystems and engage visitors with local culture. The collaboration builds on travel2change's mission to connect travelers with community projects since 2011, further supporting sustainable tourism practices. Activities currently focus on Hawaii, with plans to expand to other destinations in 2022.

On November 4, 2021, Alaska Airlines announced the launch of daily nonstop service between Seattle and Miami, starting June 16, marking its 100th nonstop destination from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. This new route enhances connectivity to South Florida and beyond, catering to travelers heading to the Caribbean and Latin America. With departures from Seattle at 7:15 a.m. and returns from Miami at 5:40 p.m., the service aims to strengthen Alaska Airlines' presence in the region while providing seamless travel options.

Alaska Airlines announced a sustainable upgrade to its inflight water service, replacing plastic bottles with Boxed Water Is Better's 92% plant-based cartons and switching to recyclable paper cups. This initiative aims to eliminate an estimated 1.8 million pounds of single-use plastics from flights annually, equating to the weight of 18 Boeing 737s. The change will remove 22 million plastic cups and 32 million plastic bottles from services each year. This effort aligns with Alaska's sustainability goals, including achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2040.

Alaska Airlines announced the expansion of its codeshare agreement with British Airways, adding 16 new markets, enhancing connectivity beyond Seattle, San Francisco, and Los Angeles to London Heathrow. Since joining the oneworld alliance in March 2021, Alaska has increased its codeshare routes by 39%, totaling 188. This partnership allows Alaska's guests access to 1,000 global destinations and partnerships with other oneworld airlines. Alaska Airlines prioritizes safety with over 100 measures and continues to enforce a mask mandate.

Alaska Airlines is expanding its services with daily nonstop flights between Seattle and Cleveland starting on June 16. This new route makes Alaska the only airline connecting Northeast Ohio with the West Coast. The initiative aims to boost economic ties and provide access to growing markets, enhancing travel options for various sectors. Tickets are now available for purchase. The added services to both Cincinnati and Columbus further strengthen Alaska's presence in Ohio, a state recognized for its economic potential.

ZeroAvia has partnered with Alaska Air Group to develop a hydrogen-electric powertrain for the De Havilland DHC-8-400 aircraft. This collaboration aims to create a zero-emission solution capable of flying 76-seat regional aircraft for over 500 nautical miles. Alaska Airlines joins top investors, including the Amazon Climate Pledge Fund, and has options for 50 conversion kits to implement hydrogen-electric propulsion in its fleet. ZeroAvia's ZA2000 powertrain will provide between 2,000 kW and 5,000 kW. The initiative supports Alaska's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2040.

Alaska Air Group (ALK) reported strong third-quarter 2021 results, achieving a net income of $194 million ($1.53 per share) compared to a net loss of $431 million in Q3 2020. The company boasts a 12% pretax profit margin, significantly exceeding analyst expectations. Key metrics include a 51% debt-to-capitalization ratio, with $3.2 billion in unrestricted cash. Operationally, Alaska exercised options for 12 Boeing 737-9 aircraft and opened a new lounge in San Francisco. Notable ESG initiatives include appointing a Google executive to the board and forming Alaska Star Ventures to target carbon neutrality.