On Thursday, June 11, our AFA Inflight Service Committee Chairpersons met with management to represent our Flight Attendants and advance meaningful improvements in our workplace. Your representatives at the meeting included Naomi Parcell (ANC), Ross DeJong (SEA), Todd Horn (PDX), Raymond Ramirez (SFO), Johanna Thomas (LAX pmAS), Gary Manoi (LAX pmHA), Andrew Malone (SAN), and Thalia Adachi (HNL). MEC Inflight Service Committee Chairpersons Chase Vandergrift (Alaska Brand) and Bianca McKee (Hawaiian Brand) guided the discussion.

The Committee met with Senior Inflight Experience Program Manager Matthew Coder, Director of Food & Beverage Products Mita Padhi, Manager of Food & Beverage Planning and Programs David Rodriguez, Principal of Food & Beverage Programs Gracie Truex, Food & Beverage Planning Systems Manager Andrea Carns, Senior Food & Beverage Product Manager Gayatri Watwe, Principal Product Manager of Service Strategy Megan Low, Principal Product Manager of Service Strategy Jesse Starmer, Senior Inflight Experience Program Manager Wendy Kong, Cabin Product Director Christopher Dela Rosa, Director of Cabin Experience David Scotland, Principal of Inflight Entertainment and Connectivity Product Manager Ryan Williams, Principal Product Manager of Inflight Mobile Alyssa Fornek along with other management representatives from the inflight mobile team, Director of Catering Operations Andrew Moyer, and Manager of Catering Performance Daniel Lluberes, along with other management representatives of the catering operations team.

While this meeting was originally intended to cover both the Alaska and Hawaiian brands, it primarily focused on the Alaska brand. The Committee strongly advocated for expanding future quarterly meetings to two days to enable more comprehensive dialogue. Although management is not willing to extend the meeting duration at this time, they acknowledge the importance of dedicating more time to these discussions. Historically, the pre-merger Alaska Committee has met quarterly, while the pre-merger Hawaiian Committee has held monthly meetings with management. Until additional time is secured for the Hawaiian brand in the merged quarterly meetings, pre-merger Hawaiian Committee Chairpersons will continue holding their own monthly Committee meetings with management to address projects specific to pre-merger Hawaiian aircraft. Given this meeting structure, this update may not cover every issue relevant to pre-merger Hawaiian Flight Attendants, but future communications will provide further details.

The next quarterly committee meeting is scheduled for Thursday, September 24.

Topics of Discussion

The Committee discussed several topics during internal AFA-only conversations and when meeting with management. Some of the items included:

Elite Recognition

• Alaska Legacy Brand: The Committee recognizes and understands the importance of elite recognition, however it’s no secret that the current system is flawed. It’s inconsistent and confusing for both Flight Attendants and passengers, and creates uncomfortable interactions when chocolate bar supplies run short, or they’re requested in first class. Management also recognizes the need for a program overhaul. When elite recognition began, there was a single qualifying elite tier and a single main cabin service level. Since then, three additional elite tiers have been added, along with Premium Class and complimentary meals for top-tier elites. The Committee and management have a shared goal of streamlining this process in the cabin and look forward to sharing upcoming changes as they are developed.
• Hawaiian Brand and Alaska Global Brand: A version of the Elite Recognition Program was launched for pre-merger Hawaiian Flight Attendants on April 22 at PSS. Currently, complimentary meal options are not available, chocolates are offered only on 787 domestic flights, and beverage benefits for elites remain unclear. This has created confusion for both crews and passengers. The Committee continues to raise these concerns with management and is advocating for clearer communication and better education moving forward.

Exit Row transition to Premium Class

• Alaska Legacy Brand: Management accelerated the transition with limited notice and without an opportunity to review the service flow. There was not enough time to add key cabin elements such as premium row placards, reserved overhead bin markers, or updated headrest covers. Placard installation will occur from September through December, but headrest updates are not planned. Management acknowledges the onboard service challenges and has committed to testing new options and making adjustments, starting with exploring service flow changes to help crews deliver mid-flight beverage refill service more efficiently on Premium Long Haul flights.
• Hawaiian Brand and Alaska Global Brand: The transition from Hawaiian’s Extra Comfort to Premium Class took place on April 22 at PSS. With the current Premium Class seat configurations, Flight Attendants are often left explaining to disappointed passengers that some perks don’t come with certain seats. Since the launch, there’s also been confusion about the Premium Class beverage policy. On Legacy Alaska Brand flights, passengers are limited to one alcoholic beverage per scheduled service (double if requested) plus one additional beverage upon request. The Committee has asked management to provide clear communication of these policies to the pre-merger Hawaiian workgroup.

Bamboo Cutlery Packs (Alaska Legacy Brand and Alaska Global Brand)

• The new bamboo cutlery packs were ordered with only a knife, fork, and napkin, but lacked a spoon. Originally, spoons were intended to be loaded separately; however, due to the opaque brown paper packaging and lack of labeling, this has proven too challenging for kitchens to execute, leading to frequent reports of missing spoons. Additionally, when these products were used for 787 meal service, they required two separate cutlery packs to be loaded onto each meal tray, and any cart movement after loading caused them to shift and fall off, getting lost in the cart and slowing service.
• New 4-in-1 cutlery packages—including a spoon—have been ordered and will begin appearing systemwide in five to six weeks. On the 787, this transition will be accelerated, so crews may encounter some temporary cutlery substitutions to bridge the gap until the permanent solution arrives.

Large Plastic Lids for Base Plates (Alaska Legacy Brand and Alaska Global Brand)

• The material for these lids has been improved for greater structure and stability, and they should already be onboard or appearing soon as kitchens use up existing supplies. The new lids are designed to stay securely in place. Additionally, packing changes have been requested to keep Saran-wrapped pilot meals separate from dishes with plastic lids, preventing them from sticking together and sliding food off the plates. If you notice ongoing issues with lids or plates, please let your Local Inflight Service Committee know.

SEA-KEF Packing Changes in effect on June 17

• Thank you to those of you who have worked the SEA-KEF service since the Inaugural on May 28 and shared valuable feedback with the committee. Several immediate changes have been implemented for these Reykjavik flights as of June 17:
  • An additional bag of First Class tea (5 Portland Breakfast and 5 Chamomile) will be loaded in the forward beverage cart. Please continue to report any missing varieties or shortages. Unfortunately, all the menus for the season were printed before the Committee received a preview, and the tea numbers were omitted and cannot be added. Management has committed to sending menu previews to the Committee for review prior to final printing in the future.
  • The oven gloves and wine opener will be swapped to align with Alaska Airlines’ standard specs.First Class menus will be shrink-wrapped in packages of 17 to prevent shortages.First Class linens will be increased to 2 packs of 10 each (date TBD).
  • Pilot meals will be moved so the Saran Wrap does not stick to the charcuterie platter plastic lids.
  • The five-piece cutlery roll-up will move off the TSU and instead replace the cutlery served with the charcuterie plate. The linen napkin and unused pieces will be retained for the primary meal service.
  • Tomato juice will be removed from the juice drawers. It was shipped to KEF in error.
• Additional testing will be scheduled to further optimize the service flow. If you have worked these flights and have feedback on the service or suggestions, please send those to mec.inflightservice.chair.as@afaalaska.org so they can be consolidated and forwarded to management. 

Stumptown Coffee Bags (Alaska Legacy Brand and Alaska Global Brand)

We’ve received many reports about Stumptown brew bags breaking on the 787, along with concerns about poor or inconsistent brew quality. The Committee is actively sharing these concerns with management. We also encourage pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants to report any issues with coffee brew bags or quality on the 737. Your feedback helps us advocate for a better, more comprehensive solution.

787 International (Alaska Global Brand)

• The Committee is grateful for the wealth of feedback we’ve received from our 787 crews. Your insights directly shaped the final service proposal, which is still under review. At this quarterly meeting, we discussed the following:
  • Incorrect Inflight Guides (IFG) being loaded on the aircraft: Management is working with fleet support to ensure that only 787-specific IFGs are loaded. 
  • Too Much & Not Enough: The Committee is working through B2B feedback to address where catering adjustments are needed.
  • Wrong Menus Frequently Loaded: Effective 7/1, menus will have printed route identifiers.
  • Main Cabin Cutlery Issues: As previously mentioned, 4-in-1 cutlery to replace individual cutlery packs
  • Boxed Water Size Too Small for Service on the 787: Switch to 1.5L Bottled Water began on June 10

Catering Operations

• Ice quality will continue to be monitored as we move into the hottest months of summer; however, reports in Block2Block are essential to keeping management and our catering partners accountable for poor-quality ice. 
• Alaska Legacy Brand: A reminder to crews to use the ice catered in drawers first before using any ice stocked in coolers. This includes any extra ice stocked in the aft galley empty cart on medium-haul and long-haul flights that do not receive ice replenishment at the outstation. Ice in coolers should be saved for the downline leg on these flights. 

Bonded Alcohol (Hawaiian Brand and Alaska Global Brand, including SEA-KEF)

• The bonded alcohol process began with the introduction of SEA-FCO/LHR/ICN/KEF. Bonded alcohol refers to duty-free alcohol products that are stored securely in kitchens (“in bond”) and are exempt from local taxes and customs duties, provided they remain unopened and secured in designated carts until after takeoff. This process is a collaborative effort between kitchens and Flight Attendants. Kitchens are directed to fill out the starting inventory of bonded alcohol within a cart, while Flight Attendants are to fill out the closing inventory of bonded alcohol within a cart. Numerous reports have been submitted of incomplete and/or inaccurate forms, incorrectly identifying bonding alcohol, missing seals, gray areas with procedures, missing forms/seals, small font size on forms, etc. The Committee continues to advocate for a streamlined process for bonded alcohol. Management intends to improve the program by the end of June. The bonded alcohol program is expected to carry over to Hawaiian Airlines’ international flights on August 1.  

Cabin Configuration and Wi-Fi

• Atmos Rewards verification will begin rolling out on June 10 and should be available on all Starlink-equipped aircraft by mid-July. Login will require last name, seat, and date of birth. Once this information is entered, the passenger will be prompted to join if they are not an Atmos Rewards member.
• Only 2 of 3 fields must match for a successful login, and it should work for seat swaps.
• The path for minors will skip the Atmos Rewards membership requirement and direct them online.
• Alaska Legacy Brand and Alaska Global Brand:
  • Starlink is scheduled to be installed on all 787 aircraft by the end of 2026
  • All 800 NG aircraft are in the 161-seat configuration with new seats. 
  • Three MAX8s remain in the previous configuration and will fly through the summer before the 161-seat reconfiguration in the fall.
  • Calf rests will be retrofitted with a new part to improve functionality. Installation will begin in September.
  • Starlink installation has been paused due to the summer flying schedule but will ramp up in the fall as aircraft availability improves. New deliveries should be able to proceed with Starlink installation prior to entry into service.
  • The existing Wi-Fi network has been experiencing congestion, especially on the East Coast. Please continue to report issues as they arise using the connectivity tool on your IMD.

Upcoming Changes

• Alaska Legacy Brand and Alaska Global Brand:
  • Menu cycle change for domestic First Class and Main Cabin on September 2 
  • Jetsetter’s Jam optimization and testing
  • Stumptown Cold Brew launched on 737s (please report any stock-outs in Block2Block)
  • Pirates Booty Packaging Rebrand: same product, different packaging 
  • Chef Jew Program ending on June 30
  • 787 International Menu Cycle Change October 21
  • SEA-NRT Transition to the 787 and will adopt the 787 SEA-International service on October 25
  • Explore the 12-oz beverage can transition and options to increase retail.
  • IMD iPhone 17 rollout Q3 with a newly designed case
  • Offline tap-to-pay and sunset of card readers target Q1 2027
• Hawaiian Brand:
  • Hawaiian Onboard Service Enhancements launch July 1. The complimentary sandwich will be removed on Domestic Medium-Haul Flights (Hawaii to all mainland destinations, excluding JFK). The service transition will be pre-order only and will only affect the main cabin on the A330 and A321. Pau Hana Cart Items will still be available for purchase. A more elaborate communication to follow.
  • Expansion of the International Business Class wine offering on August 1 
  • Expansion of the International Main Cabin alcohol offering on August 1
  • Inflight guides to be created for the Main Cabin with Starlink Information, Atmos Rewards, Beverage Offerings, and more.
  • Domestic and International Business Class menu cycle change on September 30
    • Featured Chef Keaka Lee on flights departing from Hawaii
    • Chef Del on flights departing to Hawaii
  • Pau Hana Snack Box Changes – Wet Nap will be removed from the snack boxes.

What The Committee Is Working On

1. Elite Recognition Overhaul: We are actively developing a proposal to present to both our MEC and management for a new, streamlined elite recognition program. Our goal is to create a system that is simple, consistent, and easy for Flight Attendants to deliver, ensuring a positive experience for both crew and passengers.
2. Committee Involvement: In recent months, our MEC has not been included in several service changes and product rollouts, primarily due to management workload and turnover. Our Inflight Service Committee Representatives have strongly reiterated the importance of early and frequent Committee involvement in future projects. We remain committed to advocating for our continued participation to provide meaningful insight and feedback to management at every stage of development.
3. 787 International Proposal: The Committee has submitted a final service proposal to management for consideration, following the 30 day observation period that ended. We are persistent in creating long term solutions for a fair and deliverable service.
4. Hawaiian Onboard Service Transition: The Committee is actively involved with management and the Hawaiian Service Team to support launch and post launch support efforts. We will actively be collecting Flight Attendant feedback and working flights alongside you to ensure our voices and concerns are effectively communicated to management.

We Want to Hear from You!

Do you have any other feedback for the Committee or items you’d like to bring up with management? Please let us know! Your Local Inflight Service Committee is your voice to management. You can find our contact information on the Inflight Service Committee page of the AFA Alaska + Hawaiian website.

On Thursday, February 26, our AFA Inflight Service Committee Chairpersons met to discuss their ongoing work in representing our Flight Attendants and advocating for improvements in our workplace. Representing you at the meeting were Naomi Parcell (ANC), Ross DeJong (SEA), Todd Horn (PDX), Raymond Ramirez (SFO), Johanna Thomas (LAX pmAS), Gary Manoi (LAX pmHA), Andrew Malone (SAN), and Thalia Adachi (HNL). MEC Inflight Service Committee Chairpersons Chase Vandergrift (Alaska Brand) and Bianca McKee (Hawaiian Brand) were also present. 

The Committee met with Senior Inflight Experience Program Manager Matthew Coder, Director of Food & Beverage Products Mita Padhi, Manager of Food & Beverage Planning and Programs David Rodriguez, Principal of Food & Beverage Programs Gracie Truex, Food & Beverage Planning Systems Manager Andrea Carns, Senior Food & Beverage Product Manager Gayatri Watwe, Principal Product Manager of Service Strategy Megan Low, Principal Product Manager of Service Strategy Jesse Starmer, Senior Inflight Experience Program Manager Wendy Kong, Cabin Product Directors Christopher Dela Rosa and Evan Nomura, Principal of Inflight Entertainment and Connectivity Product Manager Ryan Williams, Principal Product Manager of Inflight Mobile Alyssa Fornek along with other management representatives from the inflight mobile team, and Director of Catering Operations Andrew Moyer along with other management representatives of the catering operations team.

Although originally scheduled to discuss both Alaska and Hawaiian brands, this meeting focused primarily on the Alaska brand. The Committee requested that future quarterly meetings to be expanded to a two-day session. Management expressed limited ability to expand quarterly meetings at this time. It’s been recognized that while the pre-merger Alaska Committee has traditionally structured quarterly meetings, the pre-merger Hawaiian Committee structures monthly meetings with management. Until sufficient time can be secured for the Hawaiian brand during the merged quarterly meetings, pre-merger Hawaiian Chairpersons will continue to hold independent monthly Committee meetings with management attached to projects specific to pre-merger Hawaiian aircraft.

The next committee meeting is scheduled for Thursday, June 11.

Topics of Discussion

The Committee discussed several topics during internal AFA-only conversations and when meeting with management. Some of the items included:

Alaska Brand Discussion

Pre-Departure Service

• Ice Supply: Additional ice per flight segment in First Class has been requested due to the introduction of a full pre-departure beverage service. The Committee said adding additional ice in the main cabin would be an acceptable option if packing in the forward galley does not allow for additional ice loading. Management will investigate options.
• Boarding Announcements: The Committee agreed that giving the C or the D Flight Attendant responsibility for the first two boarding announcements would be helpful. Management will look into implementing a procedural change. The Committee would prefer management move toward pre-recorded boarding announcements. 
• Collection of Service Items: There is still confusion among crews about when to collect pre-departure cups. The cups must be collected before flight deck door closure but may remain in the cabin after L1 door closure. 
• Ice Restock: The Committee also voiced concern over ice restock being stopped in several markets (including Chicago, Mexico stations, etc.). This has been done due to inconsistent loading and to reduce cost, however we voiced concern that the ice supply on these longer flights is often insufficient for the round trip. 

Milk Run Snack Program

• Snack Product Fatigue: The current brownie snack is a product being used up before its April expiration. After April the snack product should rotate to something more appealing.
• Serving Guidelines: Crew should refer to the Milk Run guide in the OSH for details on which legs to serve the “big snack” if they have any questions about the service levels. Unfortunately, Block2Block is unable to differentiate between standalone flights and those that are part of the Milk Run, and therefore the service information in B2B does not accurately show which flights receive the “big snack” service.

Bamboo Cutlery Issues

• Quality and Safety: Reports of the bamboo cutlery splintering and changing the taste/texture of food were discussed. Management noted that reports of splintering are currently minimal but asked crews to continue monitoring and reporting.
• Missing Spoons: Another issue is the absence of a spoon in the cutlery pack, which is needed for new menu items like cold muesli. Spoons should be bulk loaded with the tins in the aft galley; however they have consistently been reported missing. Catering operations has assured us they will check to ensure spoons are being loaded individually, and management will revisit including spoons in the cutlery packs. 

Boxed Water Pull Tabs

• Flight Attendants are struggling to pull the new water tabs, with reports of breakage and repetitive motion causing hand strain.
  • The current pull tab was implemented to solve the contamination issue from the previous closure, which it has successfully done with zero new reports.
  • The team plans to investigate the integrity of the tab with the manufacturer to determine the cause and look into a device to help Flight Attendants remove the tabs.

Elite Chocolates Program

• The current system of boarding 18 chocolates per leg is failing to meet demand due to a large increase in the number of Atmos elite members.
  • A more dynamic boarding system using bags of five, tailored to specific flight demand, is being implemented to address the shortage. The Committee has doubts that this solution will be adequate to solve the problem. 
  • The company is looking to switch to a more “financially durable chocolate” in Q4 to support the inclusion of Hawaiian Airlines, as the current bar is cost prohibitive.

Picnic Pack Reduction on Short Haul A/B:

• The Committee expressed concerns about food shortages on these flights in December when this was proposed, especially on SNA where Disney-themed kids packs prove to be extremely popular, however management has decided to move forward with the reduction.
  • The Committee encourages Flight Attendants to report any issues with the reduction on these flights using a FAIR.

Food and Beverage Updates:

• New First Class and Main Cabin menus were recently launched, including a new cold muesli yogurt in Main Cabin. The Committee has previously expressed concern about loading both a hot and a cold food item in the same container and stressed that these items must be clearly labeled with different color stickers, however reports indicate that mix-ups are already occurring.
  • System-wide complaints about the Beecher’s Mac and Cheese being served dry (plain noodles/breadcrumbs) were attributed to a catering operational issue where the cheese sauce was being missed. This should now be resolved.
  • New, more durable universal glass in First Class using Hawaiian’s specifications is on order, expected by April.
  • Testing is underway for new unglazed coffee mugs after the original glazed mugs proved too fragile; the unglazed version has had no issues in testing thus far.
  • New gold ramekins for nuts, with a modified size to prevent them from lodging in cup holders, were successfully tested.
  • A concern was raised that the current First Class nut portion is too small for a 16-seat cabin which prevents refills and is often “barely enough” to complete the service. 
  • Retail beverage (beer, wine, spirits) and picnic pack prices will increase by 50¢ on April 1.
  • The recurring issue of flights to LIR running out of picnic packs was raised, and a plan was made to investigate adding more catering for this long-haul route, possibly by adjusting other catered items.

Service Inconsistency and Accountability

• Inconsistency Issues: The Committee expressed frustration over inconsistent service on Alaska brand flights. Management has pledged to do more, including:
  • Look at reducing the high number of service levels onboard Alaska Brand flights and simplify or reduce the number of different levels. This may include reducing or increasing the service level depending on flight time and market. 
  • Improve service information that is fed into Block2Block and add flight-specific catering and service level information.
  • Focus on the kudos program and gamification which often encourages crewmembers to offer products or services that fall outside of standard.
  • Look at elite recognition and find alternative products or tools for recognition which can help support the chocolate program.

Equipment and Logistics

• First Class Serving Tray: The flimsy Alaska brand navy blue serving trays have long been due for replacement, and the Committee recommended adopting the current Hawaiian brand serving trays for first class across both brands. The Committee has firmly expressed to management that we do not want to see inferior Alaska brand equipment expanded to Alaska brand 787 flights simply because it is more readily available and cheaper, and we would like the opportunity to evaluate and replace poor performing Alaska brand equipment in the future. 
• Slotted Tray for Main Cabin: There was a request to get the slotted tray loaded in the main cabin for use during water walks or for tarmac delays. Packing options will be evaluated.
• Universal Trash Cart: A new trash cart is being developed for the 737 MAX 10, incorporating Committee feedback, but retrofitting it to other aircraft would be a lengthy and expensive process, however the Committee will continue to push for a dedicated trash cart certified for use on all 737 types.
• Hot Cup Update: The new redesigned hot cup is expected to be delivered and enter the Alaska system in late May.

Catering Operations

• Team and Operational Integration: The Catering OPS team is now fully integrated to oversee both Alaska and Hawaiian catering operations under IFX. They are working to integrate separate catering vendors and standardize catering processes and procedures (safety, audits, manuals) over the course of the next year.
• East Coast Beer Bin Re-icing: Premium long-haul East Coast catering stations (specifically DCA and RDU) are not consistently draining and re-icing First Class beer bins. The team will add this as a reminder to their next kitchen call.
• Single Door Catering (737 – SEA): There is ongoing confusion and operational issues with single door catering on the 737 in Seattle, primarily regarding catering carts blocking the L1 entryway.
  • The correct procedure is one cart temporarily against the forward jump seat and two carts staged at Row 1, with the aisle clear for crew to board with their bags.
  • Crews are often waiting to board because this process is not being followed consistently, and they have difficulty maneuvering their bags past the cart by the jump seat, however there should be plenty of space for crew to board if the carts are staged properly.
  • The team is implementing bi-weekly walks and observations and will circulate a video and diagram to all stakeholders to reinforce the correct process and the crew’s ability to board while catering is taking place.

Reykjavik (KEF) Service Plan

• First Class: Matthew Coder provided a fast-paced overview of the new First Class service, including galley diagrams, ovens pre-loaded by catering, pre-departure in glassware, plus a review of the elaborate service flow which begins with the appetizer cart with table linen and cutlery setup, and fruit and cheese plate which is then cleared, followed by the soup, salad, and bread course, the clearing of soup bowls and salad plates, followed by entrees served in the aisle with plate lifters, the dessert course, mid-flight snack basket, arrival meal on a quarter-size tray, and the thank you chocolate.
  • A test of both cabins simultaneously is scheduled for March 25th, with a separate observer for each cabin.
  • The service guide (30 pages) will be added to the OSH (Onboard Service Handbook), with an update planned after the SRA (Safety Risk Assessment) is finalized.
• Main Cabin Bistro Box Concerns: The collection process for Main Cabin bistro boxes and trash collection was identified as a big concern for this service. The boxes are designed to fit back into the carts the same way they are distributed, however collection from two sides of the cart is not possible. Dual cart collection was proposed. With the rear door of the cart closed, the bistro boxes can be collected and stowed inside by a single Flight Attendant during trash collection in the cabin, with one cart starting at row 6 and one starting at row 18. 

Starlink Updates

• Installation Timeline: The first 737 Starlink installation is scheduled to begin in March, with the 737 MAX 8 anticipated to be flying with Starlink by mid-April. The 100-aircraft milestone for Alaska Air Group (including all Hawaiian, SkyWest, Horizon, and Alaska) is expected in May. All ERJs (SkyWest and Horizon) should be complete by the end of April. The first 787 install is scheduled for October.
• Passenger Experience and Portal: The Starlink portal, already live on Hawaiian and SkyWest, will have features like a flight map, entertainment tab, and a language selector added during the month of May. Full Atmos login will be required at the end of May.
• Onboard Streaming Entertainment Content: There will be no onboard hosted movies/TV shows; passengers must stream their own content using their personal accounts/passwords. 
• Inflight Wi-Fi Inconsistency: There will be four different Wi-Fi experiences across the fleet this summer (Starlink, ATG4, 2KU, and 787/Max 8s without Wi-Fi), requiring focused passenger messaging through notifications, alaskaair.com, and gate announcements.
• 737-700 Aircraft: These aircraft will not receive Starlink and will lose Wi-Fi when ATG4 shuts down in about a month and a half. They are slated for retirement in the next one to two years. The Committee expressed concerns because 737-700 aircraft are often routed to Southern California and other destinations in the lower 48 where Wi-Fi connectivity is expected.
• Reset Button: Starlink-specific placards (with troubleshooting) will replace the current 2KU placards on 737s. The Wi-Fi reset switch is being removed from the aft galley. The flight deck will have a simple on/off switch which is toggled for de-icing or if a system reset is necessary.

AS Brand 787 International Amenity Updates – Operated by pmHA Crew

• Amenity Kits and Bedding: Brand partnership with Filson to include new business class bedding, amenity kits, and slippers. These amenities will be pre-placed at the seats by fleet service. 
• Business Class Headphones: Will be provided in partnership with LSTN Sound Co. which donates a portion of proceeds to help those with hearing difficulties. These will be bulk loaded in bags for both the outbound and return flights and placed in each vanity by Flight Attendants. They will not need to be collected prior to landing and fleet service will collect and gather used headsets after deplaning.
• Water Bottles: Aluminum water bottles will be staged in the vanity compartment for 787 international flights by Flight Attendants prior to boarding.
• Décor: A new paper floral arrangement has been developed under the AS brand for the 2L countertop. For First Class lavatories, a durable faux floral arrangement has been developed.
• Lavatory Products: Salt and Stone Bergamot and Hinoki facial mist and body lotion will be made available in both First Class lavatories. Bottle height has been tested to fit standing up in the amenity holders. The Salt and Stone hand soap will be provided in all lavatories. 
• Children’s Gift: The existing Alaska and Disney co-branded coloring books will be offered to kids along with newly ordered packs of coloring pencils. 
• Premium Class (Previously known as Extra Comfort) Amenity Kit: Collectible kraft kits will be loaded and include a random selection of destination themed eye shades as well as earplugs and earbuds.
• Main Cabin Earbuds: Alaska-branded earbuds will be loaded in sufficient quantity for all passengers, plus extras.

Hawaiian Brand Updates

• Committee Meeting Format: Prior to the merging of the Committee, the pre-merger Alaska Committee traditionally conducted quarterly meetings while the pre-merger Hawaiian Committee conducted monthly meetings. As several Hawaiian-specific tasks are underway, the pre-merger Hawaiian Chairpersons will continue with monthly meetings until sufficient time can be added to Quarterly Committee Meetings to include Hawaiian-brand topics. Hawaiian branded updates reflected in this recap reflect the minimal time allotted to cover Hawaiian-specific topics. A more in-depth Hawaiian brand update can be expected in the next few weeks.
• Alaska Branded Medium Haul (Honolulu-Seattle): The Filson acrylic blanket remains for First Class. Redeye flights will provision the Filson bedding for the Main Cabin, following the current Hawaiian brand model, but non-redeye flights will only have it in First Class.
• Hawaiian Brand International/Long Haul Amenity Kits
  • Business Class Amenity Kit: Transitioning from the current a la carte service to a pre-stuffed, teal-colored kit with a zipper closure, which will be placed on the seat by fleet support. The design, in partnership with Noho Home, uses sustainable materials and ties into the Starry Trails quilt design.
  • Hawaiian Brand Premium Class (Previously known as Extra Comfort): The amenity bag will transition to a kraft kit with eye shades, ear plugs, and headphones. Previously offered to Main Cabin passengers. 
  • Hawaiian Brand Main Cabin: The main cabin will no longer receive an amenity kit. Hawaiian branded earbuds will be available for all main cabin passengers. Earbuds will be over boarded. The Committee expressed disappointment in reducing our main cabin amenity offering. 

Affecting Both Hawaiian & Alaska Brands

Inflight Mobile

• iPhone 17 and Case Design:
  • Management is preparing to launch the iPhone 17, with a target date of Q3 2026.
  • The current vendor, OtterBox, no longer makes a case for the iPhone 17, so they are in the design process with a new vendor, Pivot, who already manufactures pilot cases. Two different styles will be tested, and the Committee has asked for samples to review both options. The new cases will continue to use the existing Magtek Gen3 card readers.
  • The goal is to use a single, dual-branded case color for all airlines to simplify inventory management.
  • Card readers for the current iPhone 16 are still scheduled for distribution to Hawaiian Flight Attendants starting on March 16.
• Tap-to-Pay and Connectivity (AS):
  • Flight Attendants reported significant latency (up to 30 seconds) with tap-to-pay transactions, which is a big concern as they expand to larger aircraft.
  • The team is looking into whether the transition to Starlink Wi-Fi will improve the tap-to-pay latency.
  • A feature called “offline mode” is on the roadmap (later this quarter/early next quarter) to allow tap-to-pay payments when there is no Wi-Fi connectivity.
• Block to Block (B2B) to support Dual-Aisle Aircraft for future Pre-Orders:
  • The Committee is working closely with the B2B team and pmHA early adopters group to upgrade B2B to support dual-aisle services. More information to be shared in a separate communication.

What The Committee Is Working On

1. Reykjavik (KEF) 737 Service Testing Continues: Several pain points have been identified in the previous four SEA-KEF service test flights. Two tests have been conducted for main cabin service, and two tests for the business class service. Two tests remain, scheduled for March 25 and April 10 on SEA-JFK departures. Both will be full cabin tests, and the Committee will make recommendations for change based on the outcome of these test flights. SEA-KEF launches May 28.
2. Alaska Branded 787 (ICN, FCO, LHR) International Service: Four test flights have been completed. The Committee is actively involved in the development and rebrand of the 787 Alaska Branded International service. We continue to challenge management to land on a service model that not only creates a great passenger experience but is also feasible and practical to execute. Staffing remains the biggest challenge and is a continued conversation between the Committee, our MEC, and management. SEA-ICN launches April 25, SEA-FCO launches April 28, and SEA-LHR launches May 21
3. Alaska Branded 787 Domestic: Domestic 787 flights will transition to the Alaska branded service model on April 25. The Committee is diligently working with management to ensure a smooth transition.
4. Immersion Training (pmHA SEA Base Only): The Committee is working with management and training on the content that will be shared during Immersion Training. A member of the Committee will be available to support you at all three Immersion training dates.
5. Future of Hawaiian Branded Flights: Many projects are forecasted for the rest of 2026. The Committee is dedicated to preserving Hawaiian Airlines beloved Hawaiian hospitality to the fullest extent possible. More information to come. 
6. Focus on Simplicity: As our service changes and evolves, the Committee will continue to emphasize to management that more steps and more work for the crew does not create an elevated experience. Complicated and fractured service levels are simply creating more inconsistency without adding anything meaningful to the onboard experience. 

We Want to Hear from You!

Do you have any other feedback for the Committee or items you’d like to bring up with management? Please let us know! Your Local Inflight Service Committee is your voice to management. You can find our contact information on the Inflight Service Committee page of the AFA Alaska + Hawaiian website.

On Thursday, December 4, our AFA Inflight Service Committee Chairpersons met to discuss their ongoing work in representing our Flight Attendants and advocating for improvements in our workplace. Representing you at the meeting were Naomi Parcell (ANC), Ross DeJong (SEA), Todd Horn (PDX), Raymond Ramirez (SFO), Johanna Thomas (LAX pmAS), and Andrew Malone (SAN). MEC Inflight Service Committee Chairperson Chase Vandergrift (Alaska Brand) was also present. This meeting was primarily focused on the Alaska Brand; however, the 2026 meetings will jointly cover both brands. 

The committee met with Senior Inflight Experience Program Manager Matthew Coder, Managing Director Inflight Services Training Randy Katz, Director of Food and Beverage Products Mita Padhi, Manager of Food and Beverage Planning and Programs David Rodriguez, Principal Food and Beverage Programs Manager Gracie Truex, Senior Food and Beverage Product Manager Jessica Johnston, Principal Product Manager of Service Strategy Megan Low, Director of Catering Operations Andrew Moyer, Director of Cabin Experience David Scotland, and other management representatives from marketing and IT.

The next committee meeting is scheduled for Thursday, February 26.

Topics of Discussion

The Committee discussed several topics during internal AFA-only conversations and when meeting with management. Some of the items included:

Alaska Brand Food and Beverage Product

• Premium Class Snack Basket Launch: The Premium Class Snack Basket is scheduled to launch on December 17 on Premium Long Haul flights.
• Elite Recognition Chocolate: Management is looking at dynamic loading of chocolate as a long-term goal to help alleviate supply issues on high-demand routes.
• Premium Long Haul (PLH) Pastry Service Ends: Based on Flight Attendant feedback, the standalone pastry service on PLH flights will end on December 17. The pastry will continue to be served on the breakfast tray on select routes, including Hawaii and JFK/EWR, DCA/IAD, but will be eliminated entirely from all other routes. Biscoff Cookies should replace the pastry and be served with the initial beverage in First Class on all other AM PLH flights.
• Base Plate Changes: Based on Flight Attendant feedback, the following changes will be made on 12/17 on Medium Haul and Long Haul routes:
  • On Medium-Haul Routes, the dessert in the side bowl and white bean dip with crostini on the base plate will be replaced with a vegetable and hummus crudité in the side bowl and a bagged cookie (see heating instructions below), which should be placed on the base plate. 
  • On Long-Haul Routes, the elevated appetizer (roasted carrots or fennel slaw) on the base plate will be removed and replaced with butter and warm bread. 
• First Class Cookies: Should be provisioned on an oven rack and transferred to meal trays before serving. The cookies should be placed in a warm oven that is switched off a few minutes before serving to remove the chill. The cookies should never be “baked” or heated for any amount of time at 200° or higher. In a cold oven, the cookies may be warmed on the lowest temperature setting for 5 minutes.

Catering Operations

• New Alaska Brand First Class Mugs: A problem has been identified with some of the First Class mugs, and kitchens will begin testing mug handles to ensure mugs in the system are not defective. Unfortunately, the response to this issue was slow due to a very low number of reports. If you encounter any issues with the mugs, including broken handles, chips, or cracks, it is very important to report these events in Block2Block using the catering feedback tool, every time, every flight. 
• Facebook Reporting: Out of roughly 36,000 departures in November, broken First Class mugs were reported on only 16 flights. With so few official reports, Management could not see the true scope of the mug issue—despite many Flight Attendants discussing it on Facebook. While Facebook is great for sharing experiences within our community, it doesn’t get problems in front of management decision-makers. If you notice issues like broken mugs, please take a moment to report them using Block2Block or Safety Reporting every single time. Your report is essential—it is the only way our Inflight Service Committee and management can take swift, meaningful action. Let’s work together to turn feedback into real improvements. Your voice matters most when it’s heard through the right channels!
• New Alaska Brand First Class Trays: Future trays will be ordered with rubber pads underneath to prevent sliding on tray tables. These trays should begin to slowly appear throughout the system and will eventually replace the existing supply.
• New Alaska Brand Main Cabin Hot Cups: A revised main cabin hot cup has been selected and is expected on board sometime in late April or May. 
• Seattle Future Kitchen: Alaska has just started construction on what will become the largest catering facility in North America. The facility is expected to be up and running by the end of next year and will bring much-needed improvements to catering operations in Seattle.

Cabin Product and Aircraft Interiors

• 737 Fleet Update: 
  • The 737-800 Fleet is still undergoing a dual upgrade program. Cabin refurbishment has been completed on 36 aircraft. Of those, 15 also got new seats and the 161-seat reconfiguration. There are still 23 aircraft awaiting new seats, with a forecasted completion date of June 2026.
  • All 737-900ERs have been refreshed with tablet holders and an additional row of premium class in Row 10.
  • 737-800 Fleet Lavatories: All three 737-800s with the reduced 2 aft lavatory configuration have been retrofitted with the new cabin, and the 3rd lavatory has been reinstalled.
• Exit Rows with Reduced Legroom: Management is aware that many passengers who are used to extra legroom in Row 17 have been disappointed when they board a reconfigured 737-800 with reduced legroom. These seats should no longer be advertised as having extra legroom, as they are included with Rows 11-15 as Main Cabin Preferred seating, which are simply located closer to the front of the cabin. Please continue to utilize passenger recovery tools, such as miles or a refund request, but also report any passenger satisfaction issues using ReportIt!
• Starlink Updates: Starlink is currently being installed on the first SkyWest E175, with the first 737 installation scheduled sometime in March.
• 787 Wi-Fi: The deployment timeline indicates that the 787 will not have Wi-Fi in time for next summer’s flying.

What The Committee Is Working On

1. Reykjavik (KEF) 737 Service Testing: Service testing has begun for a new Long-Haul International service level launching on SEA-KEF next May. The Committee will continue to monitor these test flights and recommend changes to improve both the service flow and the passenger experience, as well as ensure the service is realistic for Flight Attendants to deliver. 
2. Long Haul 787 Service: The Committee is actively monitoring the changes management is making to the long-haul 787 service in anticipation of “Alaska-branded” flying launching early next year. We will also continue to advocate for a service model that not only creates a great passenger experience but is also feasible and practical to execute.
3. Focus on Simplicity: As our service changes and evolves, the Committee will continue to emphasize to management that more steps and more work for the crew does not create an elevated experience. 

We Want to Hear from You!

Do you have any other feedback for the Committee or items you’d like to bring up with management? Please let us know! Your Local Inflight Service Committee is your voice to management. You can find our contact information on the Inflight Service Committee page of the AFA Alaska + Hawaiian website.