1. Baggage Policy

1.1 Carry-On Baggage Each passenger is allowed:

• One carry-on bag (max dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including handles and wheels)
• One personal item (e.g., purse, laptop bag, or briefcase)

1.2 Checked Baggage

• Standard checked bag fee: $35 for the first bag, $45 for the second
• Weight limit: 50 lbs per bag
• Size limit: 62 linear inches (L + W + H)
• Additional charges apply for overweight (51-100 lbs) or oversized (63-115 inches) bags

1.3 Baggage Fee Waivers Passengers who may qualify for waived baggage fees:

• First Class ticket holders
• Elite Mileage Plan members
• Alaska Airlines credit card holders
• Active duty military personnel

2. Extra Baggage

Passengers can check up to 10 bags per person, subject to aircraft capacity. Fees increase progressively per additional bag. Bags over 100 lbs or 115 inches are not accepted as checked baggage.

3. What You Can Carry On Board

Items allowed:

• Medications, baby formula, food, and breast pumps
• Electronic devices (laptops, phones, tablets)
• Books and reading materials
• Small musical instruments

Prohibited items include:

• Firearms (unless properly declared and packed)
• Sharp objects, flammable materials, and aerosols (with exceptions)

TSA rules apply, and liquids must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less in a quart-sized bag.

4. Unaccompanied Minor Policy

Available for children aged 5 to 17. Key rules:

• Mandatory for ages 5–12 traveling alone
• Optional for ages 13–17
• $50 (non-stop) or $75 (connecting) per child per direction
• Only non-stop and direct flights are allowed
• Must be checked in at the ticket counter; early arrival required

Parents must provide authorized pickup details and valid ID.

5. Check-In and Check-Out Policy

5.1 Online Check-In

• Opens 24 hours before departure
• Accessible via website or mobile app
• Boarding pass can be printed or used on a mobile device

5.2 Airport Check-In

• Recommended at least 2 hours before departure
• Kiosks and ticket counters available
• Checked baggage must be dropped off at least 40 minutes before domestic flights and 60 minutes before international flights

5.3 Boarding

• Begins 30 minutes prior to departure
• Gates close 10 minutes before departure

6. Visa and Travel Document Requirements

Alaska Airlines does not issue visas but ensures travelers have valid documentation. Passengers are responsible for:

• Carrying proper identification
• Obtaining necessary visas and permits
• Meeting destination country entry requirements

International travelers should verify with consulates and official sources.

7. Pet Policy

Pets are welcome both in the cabin and as cargo, subject to specific guidelines.

7.1 Pets in Cabin

• Only small dogs, cats, rabbits
• Must be in an airline-approved carrier (max dimensions: 17 x 11 x 7.5 inches)
• Counted as a carry-on item
• $100 per pet per segment

7.2 Pets in Cargo

• For larger animals
• Must be booked in advance
• Not available on all aircraft or during extreme temperatures

Emotional support animals are treated as pets. Service animals must meet DOT guidelines.

8. Cancellation Policy

8.1 24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation

• Full refund for cancellations made within 24 hours of booking, provided departure is at least 24 hours away

8.2 Saver Fares

• Non-refundable
• Changes or cancellations not allowed after 24 hours of booking

8.3 Main and First Class Fares

• Flexible cancellation policies
• Refundable with cancellation fees (if applicable)
• Funds returned as travel credit or original payment method

9. Refund Policy

Refunds are processed:

• To the original payment method if eligible
• As travel credits valid for 12 months

Processing time: Up to 7 business days for credit cards; 20 days for cash/check bookings.

Refundable fares and add-ons like baggage or seat selection may be refunded separately.

10. Date Change and Rebooking Policy

10.1 Saver Fare

• No changes allowed

10.2 Main & First Class Fares

• Changes allowed with applicable fare difference
• No change fees (except for same-day confirmed changes: $25–$50)

Same-day confirmed changes are subject to availability and can be requested at the airport.

11. In-Flight Entertainment and Services

Alaska Airlines offers:

• Free streaming entertainment (movies, TV shows)
• Wi-Fi available for purchase
• Power outlets at most seats
• Complimentary snacks and beverages
• Premium food and drinks available for purchase

12. Major Routes and Destinations

Alaska Airlines covers more than 115 destinations. Key hubs:

• Seattle (SEA)
• Portland (PDX)
• Anchorage (ANC)
• San Francisco (SFO)
• Los Angeles (LAX)

Popular destinations include:

• Domestic: New York, Orlando, Chicago, Las Vegas, Dallas
• International: Mexico, Costa Rica, Canada (Vancouver, Calgary)

13. Additional Important Policies

13.1 Mileage Plan (Loyalty Program)

• Earn miles on Alaska and partner airlines
• Redeem for free flights, upgrades, and more
• Elite tiers offer baggage benefits, priority boarding, and lounge access

13.2 Special Assistance

• Services for passengers with disabilities
• Wheelchair assistance, priority boarding
• Notification required at least 48 hours in advance

13.3 Travel Insurance

• Optional at booking
• Covers trip cancellations, delays, medical emergencies

13.4 Covid-19 Guidelines

• Mask use optional
• Enhanced cleaning onboard
• Flexible rebooking options during disruptions

Conclusion

Alaska Airlines strikes a balance between customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, and flexibility. Understanding these policies can help travelers make informed decisions, avoid surprises, and enjoy a seamless flying experience. Whether you’re traveling solo, with kids, or with pets, Alaska Airlines’ well-structured policies are designed to accommodate a wide range of passenger needs.