Alaska Airlines Unveils Enhanced Business and Premium Economy for New 787s

Alaska Airlines is set to introduce a redesigned business class cabin on its Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners as deliveries continue and grow with new 787-9 aircraft joining the fleet. This upgrade coincides with the Seattle-based carrier’s expansion of its international route network, signaling a strategic move to enhance its premium passenger experience. The airline’s Partnerships & International lead, Alex Judson, confirmed details of these cabin changes during a Honolulu event celebrating Hawaiian Airlines' entry into the oneworld alliance. These enhancements represent the clearest step yet in Alaska distinguishing its widebody offerings from those inherited in its acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines.

The new cabin design builds upon Hawaiian Airlines' original 787 business class that debuted in 2024, known for its deep browns, turquoise oceanic hues, and wood accents that evoke Hawaii’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Hawaiian’s design celebrated the islands through elements like soft LED lighting inspired by Polynesian navigation by starlight. Judson described the existing product as thoughtfully crafted and harmonizing well with Alaska's brand due to similar color palettes. He praised the Hawaiian team for creating a standout premium cabin that Alaska views as a strong foundation.

While the initial Hawaiian 787 design captured the island spirit, Alaska Airlines is evolving the physical cabin to better reflect its own Pacific Northwest identity. So far, Alaska has infused this identity through soft product enhancements such as bedding, meal service, and beverage selections that bring a local character to the passenger experience without modifying the seats themselves. The forthcoming upgrades will include tangible changes to the business class seats and surroundings to establish a distinct Alaska look and feel for future Dreamliner aircraft.

The rollout schedule for these physical cabin renovations has not been fully disclosed by Alaska, but the airline’s fleet update is underway with five new Dreamliners already in Seattle service and a sixth expected by fall. Starlink WiFi installation across the fleet is targeted for completion before year-end. In addition to business class upgrades, Alaska plans to debut a new premium economy section featuring adjustable recliner seats in 2028, introducing a fresh option for travelers seeking amenities between economy and business class levels.

Alaska Airlines has ambitious growth plans for its long-haul operations tied to its 17-aircraft 787 fleet scheduled by 2030. This expanded fleet will support nonstop flights from Seattle to a dozen international cities, including destinations in London, Rome, Tokyo, and Seoul. The airline is carefully considering further expansion into Australian markets such as Sydney and Melbourne but remains cautious and non-committal as it assesses market demand and network feasibility.

Judson emphasized that Alaska continues to explore promising destinations beyond its current route map while focusing on aligning its premium product with evolving passenger preferences. The forthcoming deliveries of new 787 aircraft fitted with updated cabins will be instrumental in measuring how well Alaska can assert its brand identity and create a differentiated, competitive offering on transpacific and other long-haul routes.

This cabin upgrade marks a pivotal moment in Alaska Airlines’ strategy to mature its international presence by blending the inherited Hawaiian design legacy with its own regional character. The enhancements to both business and premium economy cabins stand to elevate passenger comfort and experience on the Dreamliner fleet, supporting Alaska’s broader objective to capture a larger share of the lucrative long-haul travel market from the Pacific Northwest hub. As more aircraft arrive and new routes potentially open, these changes could be key to Alaska’s success in the global aviation landscape.