Alaska Air sees 2022 capacity up 1%-3% compared to 2019 levels

As detailed in the company's fourth quarter 2021 and full-year results, Alaska Air Group's 2022 outlook includes capacity up 1%-3% and CASM ex-fuel up 3%-5% compared to 2019 levels, the company noted ahead of hosting its Investor Day at 11:30 a.m. Eastern time. Alaska plans to grow an average of 4-8% per year through 2025, in part by investing in the depth of its network. "Today, the company will share plans to accelerate the transition of its fleet of 300+ aircraft to all-Boeing 737 for its mainline operations and all-Embraer E175 jets for regional, by the end of 2023. Consistent with Alaska's low-cost high productivity mindset, these transitions are expected to drive significant economic benefits. As the fleet grows to 400 aircraft by mid-decade, these will manifest through operational simplicity, flexibility and scalability, better fuel efficiency and reduced maintenance costs. The company is also growing cargo business operations by converting two passenger 737-800s to freighters, bringing the total freighter fleet to five," the company stated. "Alaska's team is committed to outperforming the industry, even while navigating a choppy pandemic recovery and near-term economic volatility. As people return to travel, they are choosing Alaska. And thanks to the caring spirit of our people, when guests try us, they tend to come back. We are excited for the path ahead and confident in our ability to continue creating value for our employees, guests, communities and shareholders," said Shane Tackett, executive vice president finance and CFO of Alaska Air Group.