PHOTO: Seattle Seahawks QB Russell Wilson greets Alaska Airlines customers in Seattle in July. (courtesy Alaska Airlines)

As Alaska Airlines continues to fight a turf war with Delta, they have enlisted one of sports’ best leaders to help win the marketing battle.

Alaska Airlines has extended its relationship with Seattle Seahawks star Russell Wilson. As part of the multi-year partnership, Wilson will appear at events, take part in marketing activities and work with the carrier to support youth and education programs.

Among them is the Russell Wilson Passing Academy, which provides inner-city and underprivileged youths an opportunity to attend football camp for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
 
"All of us at Alaska are thrilled to announce this partnership," said Alaska Airlines CEO Brad Tilden. "Russell is known for his determination, professionalism, integrity and his humble heart — qualities we all aspire to. His meticulous planning and legendary hustle help make Russell a proven winner. We're pleased to make him our honorary CFO — ‘chief football officer.' "

Wilson said the deal with the airlines was a natural fit.

"Since coming to Seattle, I've enjoyed getting involved in the community," Wilson said. "As I have, I've come to recognize Alaska Airlines as a leader in Seattle and an airline that I feel I have much in common with. I'm delighted to be partnering with Seattle's hometown airline."

Alaska Airlines will also work with the QB at Seattle Children's Hospital, where Wilson regularly visits young fans receiving care.

In honor of Wilson's commitment to connecting with these children in such a meaningful way, Alaska Airlines will donate 100,000 miles to Children's Hospital for each touchdown pass Wilson throws or touchdown he scores through the rest of this season.

Wilson and Alaska Airlines enjoy a relationship that began last spring after his rookie year in the National Football League, when he surprised customers at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport by welcoming them at the carrier's lobby check-in and gate areas. Wilson and Alaska then teamed up to inspire youths to finish school and accomplish their goals.

An event in July — dubbed "Pledge It. Prove It. Take Flight "— attracted more than 600 students from 21 high schools in Western Washington, who heard from Wilson and employees of Alaska Airlines and its regional carrier, Horizon Air, about careers in aviation.

The announcement came as Alaska is making a major push in Seattle.  The airline is roaming the city for the next week giving away hot cocoa, coffee and best of all, free airline tickets.

In addition, customers wearing Wilson’s No. 3 jersey will get early boarding access on all flights out of Seattle.