Virgin America and Alaska Airlines officially join forces

14-Dec-2016 Virgin America and Alaska Airlines today officially closed their merger, which means that Virgin America is now a fully-owned subsidiary of Alaska Air Group. The combined airline is now the fifth largest airline in the U.S, and the largest on the West Coast, offering travelers more flights and more rewards. New benefits for guests will launch on December 19, 2016 including the ability for Elevate members to earn points on Alaska flights, priority airport benefits for elite frequent flyer members, and a new codeshare agreement.