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Alaska Airlines CEO Admits Lack of Lie-Flat Seats is a Hurdle for Transatlantic 787 Expansion

Alaska Airlines is preparing for its first-ever transatlantic flights with its upcoming Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner fleet. However, CEO Ben Minicucci has acknowledged a significant gap in their product offering. He stated that the airline currently lacks a true lie-flat business class seat, which he admits is the "one product that matters most" for competing in the premium international market. The current domestic First Class recliner seat is not competitive for long-haul routes against established carriers. The new 787s, expected from 2027, will be configured with a proper international business class to support this major strategic expansion. This move is essential for the airline to effectively leverage its oneworld alliance partnerships on routes to Europe.

Official Source: https://simpleflying.com/alaska-airlines-1st-transatlantic-boeing-787-9-missing-1-product-ceo-admits-matters-most/