Alaska Airlines has announced its largest aircraft purchase to date, a move that is expected to support thousands of jobs within the airline and aerospace sectors. The company confirmed a firm order for 105 Boeing 737 MAX 10 airplanes and five Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, with options for an additional 35 737s in the future.
According to Alaska Airlines, this investment will modernize its fleet and help expand both domestic and international operations. Deliveries are scheduled to begin as early as 2027 and continue into the next decade, providing ongoing work opportunities for Boeing employees and contractors nationwide.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) welcomed the news. “This historic investment by Alaska Airlines is tremendous news for IAM members who help build the planes and our District 142 members at Alaska / Hawaiian,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “Large-scale aircraft orders like this mean stability and opportunity for working families from factory floors to airline hubs and the entire U.S. aerospace and airline industries.”
Richie Johnsen, IAM Union Air Transport Territory General Vice President, added: “Alaska Airlines’ historic investment in more than 100 Boeing aircraft sends a powerful message in our industry. As the largest airline and aerospace union, the IAM will continue to lead in ensuring our members share in this growth with dignity and respect. This order will create good-paying jobs, open doors for the next generation of aviation workers, and further confirms that the airline industry has a strong and bright future.”
Robert “Bobby” Martinez, IAM Union Western Territory General Vice President, commented on the broader impact: “The workers we represent build and maintain these advanced aircraft. This investment demonstrates confidence in American manufacturing and the professionalism of our members at Boeing and throughout the aerospace industry.”
IAM officials noted that their advocacy played a role in recent policy developments aimed at strengthening aviation manufacturing in the United States. These included federal measures during the pandemic that preserved jobs as well as legislative efforts supporting aerospace production.
John Coveny, President of IAM District 142, recognized union members’ contributions during recent industry changes: “I am extremely proud of IAM District 142 members for their work during the Alaska/Hawaiian Airlines merger. This announcement signals that our industry is strong thanks to the work of our members at Alaska Airlines. IAM District 142 is growing fast and our members continue to help lead the way in the airline industry.”
Industry observers see this order as a significant commitment by Alaska Airlines toward fleet renewal while also benefiting U.S.-based manufacturing jobs.
Further coverage can be found at CNBC’s report on Alaska Airlines’ record-setting Boeing jet purchase as well as The Seattle Times article on the details behind Alaska’s new aircraft order.
