Alaska Airlines has officially received its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, marked by its new Aurora livery. The aircraft, designated as N784HA, was photographed departing the paint shop at Fort Worth Meacham International Airport on January 6, 2026. After a short flight, it landed in Seattle, where it will remain overnight before its inaugural service.
Originally ordered by Hawaiian Airlines, this aircraft would have been part of Hawaiian’s fleet expansion. However, following the acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines by Alaska Airlines in 2025, Alaska has taken over Hawaiian’s 787 orders and plans to integrate the 787s into its long-haul services. The Boeing 787-9 is configured with two General Electric GEnx engines and accommodates a total of 300 seats, including 34 business class suites and 266 economy seats.
Strategic Expansion in Long-Haul Operations
The aircraft’s journey to Seattle marks a significant step in Alaska Airlines’ strategy to enhance its long-haul network. Following its arrival, N784HA is expected to operate its first flight on January 8 to Tokyo-Narita, a route previously serviced by Hawaiian’s 787-9. The plane will also be utilized for flights to Seoul, demonstrating Alaska’s commitment to expanding its international offerings.
While the 787s will sport a new exterior, the onboard experience will closely resemble that of the current Hawaiian fleet, maintaining the same interior configurations. Alaska Airlines has announced plans to retrofit Hawaiian’s Airbus A330-200 fleet with a premium economy cabin by 2028, suggesting a future upgrade for the 787s as well.
Future Plans and Aircraft Orders
Alaska Airlines has plans to bolster its fleet with a total of 21 Boeing 787 aircraft, which includes 12 new-build 787-9s and four 787-9s currently operated by Hawaiian Airlines. Additionally, the airline has ordered five Boeing 787-10s, positioning itself as the second U.S. carrier to do so.
The introduction of these aircraft is particularly strategic as Alaska Airlines faces competition from Delta Air Lines at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. With its expanded long-haul presence, Alaska aims to compete more effectively in the international market. Ticket sales for routes from Seattle to Tokyo-Narita and Seoul are already underway, and future plans include flights to London-Heathrow and Rome.
Alaska Airlines is also actively working on establishing a Boeing 787 pilot base, which will open in the spring. With the influx of these new aircraft, the airline is poised for significant growth in its long-haul operations, further solidifying its presence in the global aviation market. The first commercial flight with N784HA is scheduled to depart from Seattle on May 21, marking a new chapter in Alaska Airlines’ history.
