Alaska Airlines flies World War II, Vietnam War and Korean War veterans to Washington, D.C. in first Honor Flight of 2026

Behind the (literal) red carpet

For Alaska Airlines, curating the experience starts long before takeoff, and employees like Alia are central to making it happen. She enlists dozens of employees to craft a memorable experience, entailing red carpet welcomes, gate celebrations with refreshments and even live entertainment. Teams across customer service, airport operations and inflight crews make the journey seamless, offering free checked bags, support through security and a First Class meal onboard. Ramp crews send flights off with banners, cheers and water cannon salutes. Even securing one of the four aircraft bearing the military livery requires thoughtful coordination with Alaska's Network Operations Center in Seattle.

Not just for veterans

The patriotic experience is just as meaningful for employees, who often vie to work Honor Flight shifts. San Francisco-based flight attendant Deb C. first worked an Honor Flight in 2022. With a family lineage of military service, she now volunteers as a "guardian" with her husband, assisting veterans who travel without a companion. She has also played a role in one of the trip's most emotional traditions: Mail Call.

On the final evening in Washington, D.C., veterans are surprised with Mail Call, envelopes filled with letters from family, friends, schoolchildren and strangers thanking them for their sacrifice, dedication and service. For many, it's a somber moment that echoes the days when handwritten letters were a lifeline and comfort during service.

"The reactions are unforgettable," Deb says. "There are tears, smiles and a lot of reflection. One veteran told me she received more letters that night than she did during her entire time in Vietnam."

From planning to takeoff to that final night in Washington, D.C., every detail is designed to create a meaningful experience. For many veterans, it represents acknowledgment, gratitude and a long-awaited welcome home. To learn more or get involved with the Honor Flight Network, visit honorflight.org.

America250

Alaska Airlines is a proud airline partner of America250, the national nonpartisan organization established by Congress to lead the nation's 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines were founded as lifeline carriers of the country's 49th and 50th states and have since grown into the fourth-largest global carrier in the U.S., connecting the American people to each other and the world. The combined carrier also operates a predominantly American-made fleet and is a proud employer of thousands of employees who identify as active-duty military or veterans.

"Alaska is proud to honor servicemembers and celebrate our democracy and freedoms year-round. But we're especially thrilled to play a small part in America's 250th celebration," said Megan Ouellette, vice president of public and government affairs. "The history of aviation and the histories of Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines are uniquely American. We're also a company shaped by veterans - from the ramp to the CEO - and we honor servicemembers through programs like Fallen Soldier, a military employee resource group, and our Honor Flight partnership."

As part of the America 250 commemoration, Alaska's four Honoring Those Who Serve aircraft will be adorned with a special decal. Guests flying on one of these aircraft between May and the end of 2026 should look for the special decal by the boarding door. As a token of appreciation and celebration, Alaska crewmembers will also be handing out special America 250 challenge coins to veterans flying on Honor Flights this year.

"Our independence wouldn't exist without their service," Ouellette adds. "We're proud to reflect that as we commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the establishment of our democracy."