Making New Year's Travel Resolutions More Affordable Through The Power Of Science

Chasing the Northern Lights is now within reach. Starting Jan. 13, flyers will have the opportunity to escape to the winter wonderland of Alaska for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and, yes, a chance to see the Northern Lights. Using the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute's aurora forecast, Alaska Airlines is offering up to 35% off airfare for travel between the Lower 48 and Fairbanks and Anchorage through Feb. 12. The more intense the Northern Lights forecast, the more flyers will save on flights.

The deal taps into a growing trend among U.S. travelers seeking more spontaneous, experience-based trips while also incorporating science into the adventure. It also comes at a popular time for travel planning – with people making their travel plans for the new year, January is one of the airline's top months for bookings.

"Everyone loves a lighter fare," said Natalie Bowman, Alaska Airlines' managing director, marketing and advertising. "As the airline that helps savvy adventurers explore from Alaska to Latin America, we're excited to harness the brainpower of aurora researchers to fulfill guests' wanderlust goals. This is just the start of how we'll use dynamic data in the future to appeal to our flyers' passions."

Fares will be discounted daily up to 35% depending on the Kp-index forecast during the travel time period. Scientists use the Kp-index to help predict how visible the Northern Lights might be. Alaska will discount fares based on aurora intensity:

• 0 to 3 Kp = 15% off
• 4 to 5 Kp = 20% off
• 6 to 7 Kp = 25% off
• 8 to 9 Kp = 35% off

"We've been helping people chase the Northern Lights for more than 25 years by tracking and posting aurora forecasts online," said Mark Conde, professor of physics at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. "The Geophysical Institute team is thrilled to see our data come to life through aurora seekers."

Its northern latitude makes Fairbanks the perfect location for greater night sky visibility – far away from bustling cities and their light pollution. Travelers who keep an eye on the aurora and weather forecast and spend a few long winter nights aurora hunting have a good chance of experiencing the dazzling display.

(Source: Alaska Airlines news release. Image from file)

FMI: www.alaskaair.com/northernlights