Alaska Airlines marked a significant milestone with the arrival of its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on December 6, 2023. The aircraft, tail number N784HA, landed in a pristine white exterior, ready for its new livery following a ferry flight from Charleston International Airport (CHS). The journey took just under five hours, demonstrating the swift capabilities of this modern widebody aircraft.
New Livery Set for 2026
The Dreamliner is set to showcase Alaska Airlines’ new “Aurora Livery” in January 2026. This new color scheme is designed to reflect the beauty of the Aurora Borealis, a natural phenomenon synonymous with Alaska. Earlier this year, the airline announced that its expanding fleet of 787 aircraft would be adorned with this redesigned livery by spring 2026. The latest addition to the fleet is particularly noteworthy as it represents a departure from previous acquisitions, being the first Dreamliner not obtained through the merger with Hawaiian Airlines.
Alaska Airlines’ Chief Commercial Officer, Andrew Harrison, expressed enthusiasm about the new aircraft in an August press release. He stated, “Our new 787 exterior embodies Alaska’s transition to a global airline with beauty, grace and a nod to our heritage… we’re eager for more and more travelers to recognize our new livery.”
International Expansion Plans
The introduction of the Dreamliner is part of Alaska Airlines’ broader strategy to enhance its international flight offerings. The airline has adjusted some of its orders, converting from the 787-9 to the larger 787-10 variant, according to a report by Reuters. Following the integration of the Hawaiian fleet, these aircraft will be based at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), where they will facilitate service to various international destinations.
By spring 2026, Alaska Airlines plans to launch two direct routes from Sea-Tac: one to London Heathrow (LHR) and another to Reykjavik International (KEF) in Iceland. The airline anticipates expanding its 787 fleet to include up to 17 aircraft, all serving its global gateway in Seattle. This expansion will increase the number of international destinations served from Sea-Tac from five to twelve by 2030, with the London route set to operate daily throughout the year.
Alaska Airlines reports that more than 400 passengers currently travel across North America and the Atlantic Ocean daily. Collaborations with American Airlines and British Airways are essential in establishing Alaska’s European gateway in London, facilitating connections for travelers heading to other West Coast destinations, including Hawaii and Alaska.
Onboard the Dreamliners, passengers can expect a premium experience. The aircraft will feature 34 enclosed business class suites equipped with fully lie-flat seats, privacy doors, and 18-inch 4K seatback screens. The cabin configuration includes a total of 300 seats across Business Class, Premium Class, and Main Cabin, with 79 extra-legroom seats offering enhanced comfort for travelers.
The Premium Class will feature additional legroom and service perks, including complimentary cocktails, while the economy cabin will provide 187 seats in a 3-3-3 configuration. Each seat will have USB-A and USB-C power ports, seatback screens, and complimentary meals on long-haul flights.
Alaska Airlines’ recent developments signal a new chapter for the airline as it transitions into a significant player in the international aviation market. With the new Dreamliner and expansion plans, Alaska aims to enhance its brand presence and service offerings on a global scale.
