Alaska Airlines welcomed guests to its new, state-of-the-art location in San Francisco International Airport's Harvey Milk Terminal 1 today, following a two-year, $30 million relocation project from Terminal 2. This move solidifies Alaska Airlines' position as SFO's largest carrier in the terminal, bringing a premium and enhanced guest experience to its approximately 5 million annual passengers.
New Facilities and Technology
The new location boasts a sophisticated, spacious lobby featuring a 100 x 4.5-foot LED screen with panoramic images of the San Francisco Bay Area. It also includes the airport's first automated bag drop units, a significant technological advancement designed to reduce congestion and expedite the check-in process. "Starting today, Alaska becomes the first airline at SFO to offer travelers the use of automated bag drops to process checked bags," the company announced. This system enables guests to scan their boarding passes at bag tag stations, print their bag tags, and use the automated bag drop units, all within minutes.
Shane Jones, senior vice president of fleet and real estate at Alaska Airlines, highlighted the significance of this move: "Our new home in San Francisco International Airport's Harvey Milk Terminal 1 delivers a world-class experience that our guests will love while supporting our goals of innovation, sustainability, and long-term growth."
Enhanced Guest Experience
Starting in July, guests will enjoy the airline's newest and second-largest lounge, spanning 11,000 square feet. The lounge will feature 55% more seating, including the airline's signature Loungers, a barista-staffed coffee bar, and a menu with fresh local ingredients. Complimentary West Coast wine, spirits, and craft brews will also be available, all set against San Francisco-inspired decor.
The relocation also positions Alaska Airlines closer to its oneworld Alliance members and additional global partners, facilitating seamless connectivity for both domestic and international flights. From SFO, Alaska and its partners offer over 130 weekly flights to 18 international destinations.
Sustainability and Convenience
Harvey Milk Terminal 1, which uses 60% less energy than comparable facilities, is the first airport terminal in the world to earn LEED v4 Platinum certification for its design, construction, and operation. This aligns with Alaska Airlines' commitment to sustainability.
The terminal features two TSA checkpoints, including a mezzanine-level checkpoint for guests arriving via SFO's AirTrain. Post-security, travelers can enjoy numerous amenities, including more terminal seating with power outlets, inclusive restrooms, children's areas, local retail, and a variety of restaurant options.
Upcoming Enhancements Across the West Coast
This relocation is part of Alaska Airlines' larger $3 billion investment in infrastructure to enhance the guest experience at major hubs along the West Coast. Upcoming improvements include a new lobby at Portland International Airport and a complete overhaul of gates at Los Angeles International Airport's Terminal 6.
Alaska Airlines' move to Harvey Milk Terminal 1 is timely, coinciding with the busiest travel months of the year. This summer, the airline offers the most flights from San Francisco to major West Coast cities, including up to eleven daily flights to Seattle, six to Portland, and seven to San Diego. Additionally, new service to Burbank includes three nonstop options throughout the day.
For more information and to book flights, guests can visit Alaska Airlines' website or contact customer service at 800-252-7522.
Key Locations and Dates:
- Harvey Milk Terminal 1: Now open
- Alaska Airlines Lounge: Opening in July 2024
- Portland International Airport: New lobby opening in August 2024
- Los Angeles International Airport: Gate overhaul completion by July 2024
Special Features:
- Automated Bag Drops: First at SFO, available now
- LEED v4 Platinum Certification: Harvey Milk Terminal 1
