Alaska Airlines Launches Smaller Freighters to Los Angeles Due to Converted Boeing Plane Issues

Due to unspecified issues with two converted Boeing aircraft, Alaska Airlines has been forced to launch a new freighter service to Los Angeles using smaller Boeing 737-700s from its existing fleet instead of the planned Boeing 737-800 converted freighters leased from Babcock & Brown Aircraft Management. The new service is intended to boost Alaska’s supply chain efficiency, as many essential items imported into Alaska originate in Southern California. This marks the first time that Alaska Airlines’ freighters have traveled outside of Alaska and Seattle. Both converted aircraft have experienced difficulties and have been sent back to the manufacturers for additional repairs before being put into operation. Although neither plane is currently operational, Alaska Airlines started fortnightly services between Seattle and Los Angeles International Airport utilizing its existing Boeing 737-700 converted freighters. According to a Securities and Exchange Commission filing in February, Alaska Airlines anticipates adding a second Boeing 737-800 freighter to its fleet in the first quarter. The new 737-800 converted freighters were scheduled to begin operating beyond Seattle and Alaska in mid-March after completing refurbishment procedures. The conversions were originally scheduled for completion last year, but persistent supply chain difficulties and labor shortages affecting the whole aftermarket freighter sector have led to delays. Significantly, Global Crossing Airlines revealed that a leased Airbus A321 freighter required return to the manufacturer due to a faulty cargo door. The larger Boeing 737-800 freighters will provide Alaska Air Cargo with approximately 70% more capacity to serve Alaska, enabling the company to make more direct, dedicated flights to remote areas like Bethel, Juneau, and Sitka. The new Los Angeles route will initially connect Alaska via Seattle, with direct flights to follow in 2025. The new freighters will require certification for long-range operations over open water for new non-stop routes such as King Salmon in Alaska to Seattle. Cargo income at Alaska Airlines decreased by $5m, or 4%, to $128m in 2023 compared to the previous year. The cargo segment accounted for 3% of total revenues at Alaska Airlines in 2021, down from 4% the previous year. Sign up for the weekly American Shipper Air newsletter here.