Alaska Air expanding Pullman service during key winter travel dates

Alaska Airlines showing its Crimson Spirit
Alaska Airlines showing its Crimson Spirit

Alaska Airlines is adding extra flights between Pullman and Seattle during periods of traditionally heavy wintertime travel connected to WSU’s academic calendar.

The additional service, announced Thursday afternoon by Alaska Air, is scheduled to begin in early January to coincide with the beginning of spring semester and will resume again on select days in March to help accommodate spring break travel.

The idea of additional Pullman service on key winter travel weekends was discussed in a recent meeting between President Kirk Schulz and Alaska Air CEO Brad Tilden. January was the first opportunity to adjust the regional flight schedule.

“We’re always looking for ways to help expand the availability of travel options for our students, faculty and staff,” Schulz said. “This partnership with Alaska Airlines is a welcome addition to that effort.”

The airline will add one extra daily roundtrip flight on Jan. 6, 7, 8 and 9 in conjunction with the start of spring semester. The additional flights will return on March 8, 9 and 10 for WSU’s spring break and again on March 17 and 18.

These are in addition to the airline’s existing three or four daily, regularly scheduled roundtrip flights between Seattle and Pullman.

Tickets for the added flights will go sale Nov. 19, except for the March 18 flight, which goes on sale Nov. 26.

“We heard loud and clear from Washington State students, faculty and employees that they were eager for additional flights connecting Pullman to Seattle during these prime travel periods,” said Bryan Zidar, managing director of strategic communications at Alaska Airlines — and also a proud Coug. “The added capacity will help get Cougs to and from the places they want to go.”