Alaska Airlines' Record-Breaking Boeing Order To Launch New Europe and Asia Routes

SEATTLE, WA – In a move that signals a bold new era for the Pacific Northwest’s hometown carrier, Alaska Airlines has officially cemented its position as a global contender. On January 7, 2026, the airline announced the largest aircraft order in its 94-year history, securing a massive commitment with Boeing to fuel an aggressive international expansion.

A Historic Bet on Boeing

Marking the 60th anniversary of their partnership, Alaska Airlines and Boeing revealed a firm order for 105 Boeing 737-10 aircraft (the largest variant of the MAX family) alongside five additional Boeing 787 Dreamliners. The deal also includes options for 35 more 737-10s, extending the airline's delivery stream through 2035.

This landmark agreement brings Alaska’s total order book with Boeing to 245 aircraft, supplementing the 94 MAX jets already in its fleet. For Alaska, the message is clear: the airline is no longer just a West Coast powerhouse; it is a global player.

“This fleet investment builds on the strong foundation Alaska has created to support steady, scalable and sustained growth, and is another building block in executing our 'Alaska Accelerate' strategic plan,” said Ben Minicucci, CEO of Alaska Air Group. “These planes will fuel our expansion to more destinations across the globe and ensure our guests travel aboard the newest, most fuel-efficient and state-of-the-art aircraft.”

Connecting Seattle to the World

The centrepiece of this expansion is the airline’s "Alaska Accelerate" plan, which aims to serve at least 12 long-haul international destinations from Seattle by 2030. With the addition of the new Dreamliners, Alaska has confirmed a slate of highly anticipated routes:

The 737-10s will play a critical role domestically and on high-density "near-international" routes, offering the lowest cost per seat of any single-aisle aircraft. Meanwhile, the 787 Dreamliners intended to be delivered in the high-capacity -10 variant will serve as the workhorses for the carrier’s transoceanic leaps into Europe and Asia.

Aurora Borealis Takes Flight

To celebrate its international evolution, Alaska unveiled a stunning new "global livery" on its first 787-9. Inspired by the natural wonder of the Aurora Borealis, the design features deep midnight blues and lush emerald greens. The intricate paint job took artists nearly 1,000 hours to complete, symbolising the "energy and spirit" of the brand as it transcends North American borders.

Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Aircraft, emphasised the strength of the partnership:

“This is a historic airplane order underwritten by Alaska Airlines’ record of strong performance and strategic expansion. All of us at Boeing are proud of Alaska’s success and are honoured that they have placed their trust in our people and our 737 and 787 airplanes to help grow their airline.”

Looking Toward 2035

By 2030, Alaska Air Group (which now includes the Hawaiian Airlines brand) expects to operate a fleet of more than 475 aircraft, growing to over 550 by 2035. This trajectory ensures that Alaska remains one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets in the industry.

As a member of the oneWorld alliance, Alaska’s expansion is also bolstered by the upcoming integration of Hawaiian Airlines into the alliance in Spring 2026, creating a seamless global network for travellers from the Pacific Northwest to the islands and beyond.