Alaska Air plays to historic strengths as it evolves

Alaska Air Group has always flown somewhat under the radar, even after its 2018 merger with Virgin America.

But even as it had a lower profile that some of its larger peers, Alaska maintained a certain level of balance sheet and commercial strength. And as airlines look to move beyond the pandemic phase of the COVID-19 crisis, Alaska's long-time attributes continue to shine.

After the Omicron wave drove the US industry to a slower than expected start to 2022, Alaska is working to grow its capacity beyond pre-pandemic levels later in the year. The airline will also capitalise on network opportunities through its new partnerships and a reawakening on the US West Coast.