Alaska Airlines has announced its largest aircraft purchase to date, a decision expected to support thousands of jobs in the airline and aerospace sectors, according to the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). The order includes 105 Boeing 737 MAX 10 airplanes and five Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, with options for an additional 35 737s in the future. This investment marks a significant move for Alaska Airlines as it aims to modernize its fleet and expand both domestically and internationally.
Brian Bryant, International President of the IAM Union, commented on the development: “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.”
The delivery of these new aircraft is scheduled to begin in 2027 and will continue into the next decade, providing ongoing work opportunities for Boeing employees as well as contractors across the country.
Richie Johnsen, IAM Union Air Transport Territory General Vice President, said: “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 of IAM Union, highlighted confidence in American manufacturing: “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 officials also noted that union members played a key role in advocating for policies supporting aviation during recent years. These efforts included securing federal support during pandemic-related disruptions and backing legislation aimed at strengthening U.S. aerospace manufacturing.
John Coveny, President and Directing General Chair of IAM District 142, added: “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.”
Further details on Alaska Airlines’ order can be found on CNBC’s report about the carrier’s biggest order ever as well as coverage from the Seattle Times.
