Scheduled To Take Delivery Of 37 More Of The Model By 2017

Alaska Airlines introduced its first 737-900ER, Thursday, flying the airplane between Seattle and San Diego. The airline is scheduled to take delivery of 38 of the aircraft through 2017.

"Boeing's Sky Interior and our new custom-designed seats represent the most significant cabin upgrades for Alaska Airlines in more than 20 years and are part of our goal to make flying more comfortable for our customers," said Brad Tilden, Alaska Airlines' president and CEO. "In addition to an improved cabin experience, the 737-900ER has environmental benefits, as well. On a flight between Seattle and Newark, New Jersey, for example, the 737-900ER burns 3 percent fewer gallons per seat than a 737-900."

Among the most significant features of Alaska's newest airplane is the innovative, custom-designed seat that provides passengers with more space, a six-way adjustable headrest and the carrier's standard three inches of recline in the main cabin. Made by Recaro Aircraft Seating, the seat includes a comfortable yet slimmer seatback and bottom and a literature pocket located above the tray table.

Alaska's first class cabin on its 737-900ER features a different premium Recaro seat with five inches of recline, an articulating seat bottom and a six-way adjustable headrest.

"Flying can be a hectic experience for most people, but entering Alaska's new cabin actually had a relaxing and calming effect on me from the minute I stepped onto the plane," said Brandon Berg, an Alaska Airlines MVP Gold frequent flier after touring the 737-900ER.

Configured with 165 seats in the main cabin and 16 seats in first class, Alaska's new 737-900ERs will fly transcontinental routes between the west and east coasts and to the Hawaiian Islands.

"We're very proud that Alaska Airlines is our North America launch customer for the Recaro BL3520 seat," said Dr. Mark Hiller, chief executive officer of Recaro Aircraft Seating. "This award-winning seat scores with an outstanding combination of lightweight design, comfort and living space. The seat offers added value to both Alaska Airlines and their passengers."

(Image provided by Alaska Air)

FMI: www.alaskaair.com