SEATTLE - Alaska Airlines has expanded its partnership with British Airways, allowing customers to directly purchase nonstop flights to London from the United States via its website. The new booking feature includes flights from key gateway airports such as Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, Chicago, and New York JFK to London Heathrow.
The collaboration between the two airlines, both members of the oneworld alliance, aims to streamline the travel experience for passengers. With London being one of the top international destinations searched on Alaska Airlines' website, the enhanced partnership responds to customer demand for more accessible travel options to the UK capital.
Starting June 18, travelers can book British Airways flights on alaskaair.com for travel dates extending into the future. Later in the year, the partnership will also enable customers to purchase Alaska Airlines flights that connect to British Airways services, as well as onward flights beyond London.
Andrew Harrison, Alaska Airlines' chief commercial officer, expressed enthusiasm about adding British Airways to their portfolio of direct booking options. He highlighted the importance of London as a global gateway for their guests.
British Airways provides significant service to London from the West Coast, with multiple daily flights from cities such as Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. The airline also offers several daily flights from Chicago and New York JFK.
Mileage Plan members booking British Airways flights through Alaska Airlines' website will earn 100% of the miles flown, including elite qualifying miles (EQMs). Additionally, purchases made with the Alaska Airlines Visa (NYSE:V) Signature® credit card on alaskaair.com, including partner flights, will earn triple miles.
The partnership not only facilitates ticket purchases but also allows Mileage Plan members to redeem their miles for flights on British Airways. This expansion of services is part of Alaska Airlines' efforts to provide award-winning customer service and a leading loyalty program. As a member of the oneworld alliance, their guests have access to an extensive global network.
The information for this article is based on a press release statement from Alaska Airlines.
In other recent news, Alaska Airlines has announced major changes in its leadership, promoting two executives and appointing a new president for its subsidiary, McGee Air Services. Additionally, the U.S. Treasury Department plans to raise a minimum of $492 million from upcoming auctions where it will sell warrants to buy shares in various U.S. airlines, including Alaska Airlines. This move follows the COVID-19 relief aid given to the airlines, which included Alaska Airlines receiving $2.2 billion in assistance.
Wolfe Research has upgraded shares of Alaska Air (NYSE:ALK) from Peer Perform to Outperform, citing a combination of favorable earnings potential and attractive valuation. On the legislative front, over 160 members of the U.S. House of Representatives have called upon the National Mediation Board to assist approximately 80,000 flight attendants, including those from Alaska Airlines, in securing new contract agreements.
In a legal development, major U.S. airlines, including Alaska Airlines, have challenged a regulation by the U.S. Department of Transportation that mandates the upfront display of various airline fees. These recent developments reflect the airline's ongoing strategic growth and operational adjustments.
InvestingPro Insights
Amidst the expansion of its partnership with British Airways, Alaska Airlines (NYSE: ALK) is poised to cater to the increasing demand for international travel. The airline's strategic move to enhance its booking system coincides with positive expectations surrounding its financial performance. According to InvestingPro Tips, Alaska Airlines is anticipated to see net income growth this year, backed by a consensus of 9 analysts who have revised their earnings upwards for the upcoming period. This outlook aligns with the company's efforts to strengthen its global connectivity and service offerings.
In terms of financial health, Alaska Airlines operates with a moderate level of debt, which allows for flexibility in capital allocation and investment in growth initiatives such as the extended partnership with British Airways. Additionally, the airline has been profitable over the last twelve months, a trend that analysts predict will continue into this year. However, it's worth noting that Alaska Airlines does not currently pay dividends to shareholders, which may influence investment considerations for income-focused investors.
From a market performance perspective, Alaska Airlines' stock price movements have been quite volatile, reflecting the dynamic nature of the airline industry. InvestingPro Data shows a market capitalization of $5.11 billion and a forward Price to Earnings (P/E) ratio of 9.49, suggesting that the stock may be undervalued relative to its earnings potential. Moreover, the company's Price to Book (P/B) ratio stands at 1.28, which can be an indicator of market sentiment about the value of the company's assets.
For those considering an investment in Alaska Airlines, utilizing the comprehensive insights available on InvestingPro can provide a deeper understanding of the company's financial metrics and market position. With additional tips listed on the platform, investors can make informed decisions using the latest data and analysis. To access these resources, consider subscribing to InvestingPro and use coupon code PRONEWS24 to get an additional 10% off a yearly or biyearly Pro and Pro+ subscription.
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