Alaska Airlines will increase its allotment of first-class seats on Boeing 737-800 aircraft and its Premium Class extra-legroom seats on 737-900ER and 737-9 Max planes.
The retrofits of more than 200 aircraft are slated to begin in the fall and to be completed in the summer of 2026.
The move comes as premium products are outperforming coach seats across the airline industry. Alaska, which released its second-quarter results on Thursday, reported year-over-year revenue increases of 8% for first class and 6% for its extra-legroom seats, while overall revenue was up just 2%.
"The decision to increase the number of first class and premium class seats comes in response to growing demand from our valued guests," the airline said. "We understand that many travelers seek the added comfort and benefits of these classes, and we are committed to meeting this demand."
The retrofits, the airline added, will provide more upgrade opportunities for elite members of its Mileage Plan frequent flyer program.
On its fleet of 59 737-800s, Alaska will increase its first-class seat total from 12 to 16, while keeping the number of extra-legroom seats the same at 30. The retrofits, Alaska said, will also include new seatback device holders with built-in cup holders across the economy and first class cabins.
Conversions of those planes are scheduled to begin in early 2025 and to be completed in summer 2026.
On its fleet of 79 737-900s and its fleet of 80 737-9 Max planes, Alaska will maintain its current count of 16 first-class seats but increase the extra-legroom seat count from 24 to 30.
Retrofits of the 737-900ERs are scheduled to last from the fall of this year through next summer. The Max 9 retrofits are to begin next spring and be completed by summer 2026.
As part of the modifications, the 737-900ERs will also receive an interior refresh, Alaska said, including the addition of device holders in the main cabin.