Alaska Airlines has marked a significant milestone in its fleet modernization program with the completion of a comprehensive cabin upgrade on its inaugural Boeing 737-800 narrowbody aircraft. This transformative initiative introduces a revolutionary premium-heavy cabin featuring state-of-the-art RECARO seats, setting a new standard for passenger comfort and experience.

The Seattle-based carrier has ambitious plans to retrofit a total of 59 Boeing 737s with these meticulously refurbished seats and expanded premium options. This extensive upgrade program is slated for completion by the summer of 2026, underscoring Alaska Airlines’ commitment to enhancing its entire fleet and delivering an elevated travel experience across all routes.

The pioneering Boeing 737-800, registered as N558AS, is the first narrowbody aircraft in the fleet to receive this all-new interior treatment. Christopher Dela Rosa, Cabin Product Director at Alaska Airlines, officially announced its completion via LinkedIn on August 2, 2025. The newly refurbished aircraft boasts an increased number of first-class seats and significantly upgraded premium class and main cabin seating, meticulously designed by Aircraft Seating.

Beyond the modern aesthetic and enhanced comfort, a key feature of the upgraded cabins is the integration of USB-C charging outlets conveniently located at every seat across all classes. Dela Rosa highlighted that these comprehensive developments and upgrades are a direct response to the escalating demand for premium seating options among travelers, reflecting a strategic adaptation to evolving passenger preferences.

The 19-year-old Boeing 737-800, which previously accommodated 159 passengers across three classes (12 first, 30 premium, 117 economy), will now feature at least 16 first-class seats, signaling a clear shift towards a more premium-focused configuration. Alaska Airlines currently operates a fleet of 59 Boeing 737-800s, with an average age of 17.3 years, all of which are slated for this premium-heavy cabin refurbishment by mid-2026.

This cabin upgrade is part of a larger strategy by Alaska Airlines to implement significant enhancements across its entire Boeing 737 fleet. An announcement in June 2025 confirmed that some aircraft would enter service with these upgraded, premium-heavy cabins by the end of the current year. The airline is also committed to ensuring a consistent cabin aesthetic and feel, incorporating updated bulkheads, cabin dividers, new seat leather, and carpeting across its refreshed interiors, with nearly all 737s expected to have updated interiors by the close of 2025.

Further improving the premium passenger experience, the airline has announced the addition of reserved overhead bin placards above premium class seats. This thoughtful amenity aims to streamline the boarding process and alleviate the common stress associated with securing carry-on storage. Looking ahead, Alaska Airlines has also hinted at upcoming updates for the Airbus A330 widebody fleet, operated by Hawaiian Airlines, following their merger, though specific details on these upgrades are yet to be revealed, presenting an intriguing future for passenger services.

The strategic merger between Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines has opened new avenues for both carriers, significantly expanding their operational capabilities and route networks. For instance, Alaska Airlines announced on March 25, 2025, details about its second route to Asia from Seattle-Tacoma. Commencing September 12, the airline will initiate flights to Seoul-Incheon International Airport (ICN), South Korea, utilizing Hawaiian Airlines’ Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner widebody aircraft, showcasing the synergistic benefits of the recent consolidation and future fleet integration.