In addition to its
potential merger with Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines is gobbling up
partnerships.
Porter Airlines has
become the 30th global partner of Alaska Airlines and the carrier's
first Canadian partner. Guests will be able to book tickets on Porter through
Alaska Airlines and maintain miles.
The airline will begin
service between Toronto and both Los Angeles and San Francisco, starting in
January.
Porter
Airlines flies the Embraer E195-E2.
"Porter Airlines opens
new opportunities for our guests to travel to Canada in
style," said Brett Catlin, vice
president of loyalty, alliances and sales at Alaska Airlines.
"We're thrilled to
partner with a vibrant and growing airline that offers a refined experience
including top-notch inflight service and terrific onboard amenities,"
Catlin continued.
The E195-E2 is like the
E175 flown by Alaska's regional carrier,
Horizon Air, and SkyWest, but it flies 132 passengers instead of 76 with no
middle seats.
"Porter has been
redefining economy air travel for more than 17 years. As our network expands
across North America, this partnership with
Alaska Airlines will enable travelers in the western U.S. to enjoy our elevated
onboard experience when flying to Toronto and
throughout Eastern Canada," said Kevin Jackson, executive vice president and chief
commercial officer, Porter Airlines.
"Alaska and Porter emphasize service excellence on each
and every flight, so this partnership is a natural fit for our
passengers," Jackson continued.
Service to Los Angeles
International Airport begins on January 16, while San Francisco International
Airport service starts on January 25.
Both airlines have plans to
expand the partnership next year.
As for the
merger between Alaska and Hawaiian Air, the deal is
not done yet and still in the negotiating phase.
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