Alaska Airlines has announced its largest aircraft order to date, a move that is expected to support thousands of jobs for members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) and others in the airline and aerospace sectors.
The airline confirmed it will purchase 105 Boeing 737 MAX 10 airplanes and five Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, with options for an additional 35 737s. Deliveries are scheduled to begin as early as 2027 and continue into the next decade. This order aims to modernize Alaska Airlines’ fleet and expand its domestic and international operations.
Brian Bryant, International President of IAM Union, commented on the announcement: “This historic investment by Alaska Airlines is tremendous news for IAM members who help build the planes and our District 142 members at Alaska / Hawaiian. Large-scale aircraft orders like this mean stability and opportunity for working families from factory floors to airline hubs and the entire U.S. aerospace and airline industries.”
Richie Johnsen, Air Transport Territory General Vice President at IAM Union, added: “Alaska Airlines’ historic investment in more than 100 Boeing aircraft sends a powerful message in our industry. As the largest airline and aerospace union, the IAM will continue to lead in ensuring our members share in this growth with dignity and respect. This order will create good-paying jobs, open doors for the next generation of aviation workers, and further confirms that the airline industry has a strong and bright future.”
Robert “Bobby” Martinez, Western Territory General Vice President at IAM Union, said: “The workers we represent build and maintain these advanced aircraft. This investment demonstrates confidence in American manufacturing and the professionalism of our members at Boeing and throughout the aerospace industry.”
IAM representatives highlighted their role in advocating for policies that have supported job preservation during challenging times such as the pandemic, as well as legislative efforts aimed at strengthening aerospace manufacturing within the United States.
John Coveny, President and Directing General Chair of IAM District 142, stated: “I am extremely proud of IAM District 142 members for their work during the Alaska/Hawaiian Airlines merger. This announcement signals that our industry is strong thanks to the work of our members at Alaska Airlines. IAM District 142 is growing fast and our members continue to help lead the way in the airline industry.”
The large-scale order by Alaska Airlines is seen as a significant commitment both to fleet modernization efforts https://www.cnbc.com/2024/01/11/alaska-airlines-to-buy-more-than-100-boeing-jets-in-carriers-biggest-order-ever.html as well as supporting ongoing employment across multiple sectors connected with aircraft production https://www.seattletimes.com/business/boeing-aerospace/alaska-airlines-orders-more-than-100-boeing-planes/.
