Alaska Airlines Launches International Business Class Suites to Elevate Long-Haul Travel
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Alaska Airlines has unveiled its first-ever International Business Class Suites, marking a major step in its evolution into a global carrier. The new long-haul product, launching this spring, introduces private lie-flat suites, an upgraded dining experience, and premium lounge access. The rollout supports Alaska’s expansion into Europe and Asia, helping the airline compete more strongly in the premium international travel market.
Redefining Long-Haul Comfort with Private Suites
Alaska Airlines is launching a new International Business Class on its Boeing 787-9 aircraft, with a fully redesigned premium experience for long-haul flights. At the center of the product offering is 34 private suites with lie-flat seats, sliding privacy doors, and direct aisle access.
“When we debut our new product this spring, it will raise the bar and redefine long-haul travel.”
– Andrew Harrison, Alaska Airlines
Each suite is designed for both comfort and practicality. The seat converts into a fully flat bed, while the surrounding layout creates a lounge-style space for working, dining, or relaxing. The cabin also features 18-inch HD entertainment screens, a library of more than 1,500 movies and TV shows, noise-reducing headsets, personal power outlets, and wireless charging.
The onboard experience extends beyond the seat. Alaska has introduced a new dining concept focused on restaurant-quality service, with menus inspired by West Coast flavors and international destinations. The inflight service starts with a welcome offering that includes a cheese and charcuterie board, along with a selection of wines, Champagne, cocktails, and fresh coffee from Stumptown Coffee.
Passengers can choose from up to six main courses depending on the route, including regionally inspired dishes such as pasta carbonara on flights to Rome or Korean-inspired meals on Seoul flights. The airline also offers a Chef’s Table entrée developed in partnership with Seattle-based chef Brady Ishiwata Williams, featuring dishes such as braised short rib sourced from local producers. The dessert service adds a more personalized touch, with a build-your-own ice cream experience in collaboration with Salt & Straw.
Comfort is further enhanced through premium bedding designed in collaboration with Filson. Each suite includes a mattress pad, plush pillow, lumbar support cushion, and oversized duvet, along with an amenity kit featuring skincare products from Salt & Stone and other travel essentials. Passengers also receive a reusable water bottle developed with PATH Water.
“We set out to design a Business Class experience that is both sophisticated and authentically Alaska: premium, comfortable and thoughtfully created for our guests. When we debut our new product this spring, it will raise the bar and redefine long-haul travel, while continuing to deliver the remarkable care that sets Alaska apart on the global stage,” said Alaska Airlines EVP and Chief Commercial Officer Andrew Harrison.
Expanding Global Reach with a Premium Experience
The launch of International Business Class Suites comes as Alaska Airlines expands its international network and strengthens its global positioning. New nonstop routes from Seattle to Rome, Seoul, Tokyo, London and Reykjavík mark a significant shift in the airline’s strategy, moving beyond its traditional North American focus.
The new product is closely tied to this expansion, positioning Alaska to attract premium travelers on intercontinental routes while delivering a more consistent experience across its network.
Passengers traveling in International Business Class will also benefit from access to Alaska’s premium lounges, as well as partner lounges through the oneworld alliance. This includes access to first-class lounges for top-tier elite members, extending the premium experience beyond the aircraft.
The airline’s digital and connectivity strategy is also evolving alongside the cabin upgrade. Alaska plans to introduce Starlink Wi-Fi on its 787-9 fleet later this year, bringing high-speed, gate-to-gate connectivity to long-haul flights. The service will be available free to loyalty members, reinforcing the airline’s focus on accessible, high-quality connectivity.
The new Business Class Suites are part of a broader upgrade across Alaska’s cabins. Premium Economy passengers will get more legroom, improved seats, and upgraded amenities, while Main Cabin travelers will receive complimentary meals and better comfort on international flights. Passengers in both cabins will receive a Filson blanket and pillow to help them relax. Premium Economy passengers also benefit from four extra inches of legroom, power outlets, 12-inch HD screens, complimentary alcoholic drinks, and a Filson amenity kit.