Stunning: Alaska Airlines Unveils Lie-Flat 737 MAX 10 “Aurora Suites,” Boosts 787 With 46% Premium Seating

Published Sep 29, 2026, 2:03 PM EDT Experienced ICAO English Language Proficiency Instructor for pilots and ATCOs and conference interpreter who is passionate about facilitating effective communication within aviation-related businesses. Possess a deep understanding of the aviation industry, including aviation regulations, terminology, and industry-specific communication protocols. Has been working at numerous airshows across Europe since 2014. Being an ultralight pilot in her free time, she also promotes safety and efficiency in aviation operations. Based in Italy and Malta Alaska Airlines is dramatically expanding its premium offering, unveiling its new Aurora experience for Boeing 787 Dreamliners and select Boeing 737 MAX 10 aircraft. Announced on September 29, 2026, the new product will bring lie-flat suites to Alaska's widebody fleet and, for the first time, to selected transcontinental flights on brand-new 737s from 2028. The airline is also introducing Premium Reserve, increasing the share of premium seating aboard its 787-9s to approximately 46%. The announcement forms part of Alaska Air Group's broader effort to create distinct premium identities for Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines following the latter's acquisition. While Alaska is introducing Aurora, Hawaiian is simultaneously developing Leihōkū, with both brands receiving upgraded cabins, lounges, dining, and ground services. The changes represent a substantial expansion of Alaska's premium strategy as the company builds its international network from Seattle. Alaska & Hawaiian Raise The Bar With Aurora, Leihōkū & Premium Reserve Credit: Alaska Airlines Alaska Airlines says its new Aurora experience is intended to extend beyond the aircraft, with dedicated check-in and concierge services, a planned dedicated Aurora Lounge at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and upgraded onboard service. On the 787, passengers will find 34 lie-flat Aurora Suites arranged with direct aisle access, privacy doors, storage and 19-inch 4K entertainment displays, alongside wireless, USB-C and AC charging. The suites will also feature premium materials, chef-led dining and Starlink connectivity for Atmos Rewards members. The airline is complementing the suites with Premium Reserve, a new premium-economy cabin positioned between the lie-flat product and existing Premium Class. The seats will offer 38 inches of pitch, wider seating, enhanced recline, leg and calf rests, 16-inch 4K OLED screens, charging options, and upgraded dining. Premium Reserve will launch in 2028 across Alaska's 787 fleet, select 737-10 MAX aircraft, and Hawaiian's Airbus A330s. Ben Minicucci, CEO of Alaska Air Group, said in a statement: “We believe premium is more than a seat. It’s how guests feel from the moment they book their trip to the moment they arrive at the airport to when they’re in the air with us. Aurora for Alaska and Leihōkū for Hawaiian bring that vision to life in ways that feel true to the Alaska and Hawaiian brands our guests love, while raising the standard for comfort, service, dining and care throughout the journey.” Alaska's 787 Is Becoming A Premium-Heavy Dreamliner Credit: Alaska Airlines The most immediate transformation will be aboard Alaska's Boeing 787 fleet. The airline plans to install 34 Aurora Suites on every 787 Dreamliner, while adding 35 Premium Reserve seats to each 787-9 and 787-10. Once the redesigned 787-9 enters service, approximately 46% of its seats will belong to premium cabins, compared with 38% today. That represents a significant shift in cabin philosophy for an aircraft that is becoming more central to Alaska's international ambitions. According to planespotters.net, the carrier currently operates five 787-9s, while its previous order for five additional 787s brought its firm future 787 fleet to 17 aircraft, with the airline intending the additional aircraft to be 787-10s. Alaska has said these aircraft will support a long-haul network reaching at least 12 international destinations from Seattle by 2030. The new Aurora product also builds on Alaska's recent international expansion. The airline now operates its Dreamliners on routes linking Seattle with destinations including London, Rome, Tokyo, and Seoul, with the 787 serving as the centerpiece of its emerging global operation. Aurora Is Coming To The 737 MAX 10 In 2028 Credit: Alaska Airlines Perhaps the most surprising part of Alaska's announcement is that the Aurora experience will not remain exclusive to widebody aircraft. Beginning in 2028, at least 25 Boeing 737-10 MAX aircraft will be equipped with 12 Aurora Suites each, enabling the lie-flat product to operate on selected transcontinental routes. This will make Alaska one of the few carriers to offer a true lie-flat premium cabin on a narrowbody aircraft of this size. The 737-10s will also receive 12 Premium Reserve seats, creating a four-cabin arrangement consisting of Aurora Suites, Premium Reserve, Premium Class and Main Cabin. Alaska has 105 Boeing 737-10s on firm order, plus options for another 35, giving the airline considerable scope to deploy the aircraft on high-value domestic markets as deliveries arrive. The aircraft will feature the Aurora-inspired livery, visually connecting the narrowbody fleet to Alaska's new global identity. Together with the planned Seattle Aurora Lounge and enhanced ground services, the 737 product demonstrates that Alaska's premium strategy is not limited to flying only.