Alaska Airlines has partnered with Portland International Airport to open its new terminal.
The new terminal features distinct architectural designs of wood and greenery, inspired by the Pacific Northwest landscape. Alaska Airlines is also introducing a new autonomous check-in technology, facilitating passengers’ experience prior to entering the terminal. The partnership stems from Alaska Airlines’ prominent status at Portland, being the largest carrier at the airport for over twenty years with 110 peak daily flights to 55 destinations from PDX.
“As our second largest hub, Portland is an essential part of Alaska’s future. Our deep collaboration and joint investment with the Port of Portland on this new world-class terminal highlights our focus on improving how our guests travel,” said Shane Jones, senior vice president of fleet, revenue products and real estate at Alaska Airlines.
The new technology, introduced by the airline and created in partnership with Embross, provides solutions such as Apple iPad powered bag tag stations to print tags and matching passengers to their IDs without an agent.
“With nearly 90% of our passengers now checking in before they arrive at the airport, we’ve launched our lobby of the future experience in Portland which simplifies dropping off bags and gets guests quickly through the lobby so they can enjoy 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 PDX bag drop experience leverages some of the latest innovations in computer vision to deliver the convenience and efficiency of automated bag processing while also ensuring user safety and security compliance to TSA ID-check requirements.”
Future additions to the new terminal are already in the pipeline, with plans to open a 12,000 square foot Lounge in 2026, featuring a barista station, a fireplace setting and views of the terminal.
“The new PDX was designed to double down on everything travelers love about our airport,” said Dan Pippenger, chief aviation officer at the Port of Portland. “Our partners at Alaska Airlines understood that vision from the beginning and helped us build a new main terminal that both improves the travel experience and celebrates our region.”
Photos: Alaska Airlines
