Alaska Airlines has announced the largest aircraft order in its history, a move that is expected to support thousands of jobs within the airline and aerospace industries, according to the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union).
The carrier confirmed a firm order for 105 Boeing 737 MAX 10 airplanes and five Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, with options for an additional 35 737s in the future. This significant purchase marks a strategic investment aimed at modernizing Alaska Airlines’ fleet and expanding its domestic and international operations. Deliveries are set to begin as early as 2027 and will continue into the next decade.
IAM Union International President Brian Bryant commented on the development: “This historic investment by Alaska Airlines is tremendous news for IAM members who help build the planes and our District 142 members at Alaska / Hawaiian. Large-scale aircraft orders like this mean stability and opportunity for working families from factory floors to airline hubs and the entire U.S. aerospace and airline industries.”
The union emphasized that this order will provide ongoing work not only for Boeing employees but also for contractors across the country, reinforcing employment stability throughout the supply chain.
Richie Johnsen, IAM Union Air Transport Territory General Vice President, stated: “Alaska Airlines’ historic investment in more than 100 Boeing aircraft sends a powerful message in our industry. As the largest airline and aerospace union, the IAM will continue to lead in ensuring our members share in this growth with dignity and respect. This order will create good-paying jobs, open doors for the next generation of aviation workers, and further confirms that the airline industry has a strong and bright future.”
Western Territory General Vice President Robert “Bobby” Martinez added: “The workers we represent build and maintain these advanced aircraft. This investment demonstrates confidence in American manufacturing and the professionalism of our members at Boeing and throughout the aerospace industry.”
IAM members have been active in advocating for federal policies that preserved jobs during recent challenges such as the pandemic, as well as legislative efforts designed to strengthen aerospace manufacturing within the United States.
John Coveny, IAM District 142 President and Directing General Chair, highlighted his pride in union members during recent developments: “I am extremely proud of IAM District 142 members for their work during the Alaska/Hawaiian Airlines merger. This announcement signals that our industry is strong thanks to the work of our members at Alaska Airlines. IAM District 142 is growing fast and our members continue to help lead the way in the airline industry.”
More information about Alaska Airlines’ record-breaking purchase can be found on CNBC’s report (https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/14/alaska-airlines-to-buy-more-than-100-boeing-jets-in-carriers-biggest-order-ever.html) as well as coverage by The Seattle Times (https://www.seattletimes.com/business/boeing-aerospace/alaska-airlines-orders-more-than-100-boeing-planes-including-max-10-and-dreamliner-models/).
