Alaska Airlines has partnered with Portland International Airport to open its new terminal.
The new terminal features a striking architecture of wood and greenery inspired by the landscape of the Pacific Northwest. Alaska Airlines is also introducing new autonomous check-in technology that will make it easier for passengers to check in before entering the terminal. The partnership stems from Alaska Airlines’ prominent position in Portland, having been the largest airline at the airport for over twenty years, offering 110 flights daily to 55 destinations from PDX during peak periods.
“As our second largest hub, Portland is an essential part of Alaska’s future. Our close collaboration and joint investment with the Port of Portland in this new world-class terminal underscores our focus on enhancing our guests’ travel experiences,” said Shane Jones, senior vice president of fleet, revenue products and real estate for Alaska Airlines.
The new technology, introduced by the airline and developed in collaboration with Embross, offers solutions such as baggage tag stations with Apple iPad to print tags and assign passengers to their IDs without an employee.
“Nearly 90% of our passengers now check in before arriving at the airport, so we’ve introduced our lobby experience of the future in Portland. It simplifies bag drop and quickly guides guests through the lobby so they can take advantage of everything the new terminal has to offer,” said Charu Jain, senior vice president of innovation and merchandising at Alaska Airlines.
Myles Tzelepis, Chief Technology Officer at Embross, added, “The baggage drop at PDX will utilize some of the latest innovations in computer vision to provide the convenience and efficiency of automated baggage handling while ensuring user safety and compliance with TSA ID screening requirements.”
Future expansions of the new terminal are already being planned. The opening of a 1,110 square meter lounge with a barista station, fireplace and view of the terminal is planned for 2026.
“The new PDX was designed to offer everything travelers love about our airport,” said Dan Pippenger, chief aviation officer for the Port of Portland. “Our partners at Alaska Airlines understood this vision from the beginning and helped us build a new main terminal that both enhances the traveler experience and celebrates our region.”
Photos: Alaska Airlines
