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Alaska Airlines to Double Freighter Capacity With Four Boeing 737-800 Conversions

Alaska Airlines will significantly expand its dedicated cargo operations by adding four leased Boeing 737-800 converted freighters, expected to enter service in the first half of 2027. The expansion effectively doubles the carrier's freighter fleet and marks the first time the airline will operate dedicated cargo jets in Hawaii. The aircraft will be based in Honolulu and operate within Hawaii under Hawaiian Air Cargo branding, while additional aircraft will serve Alaska. Alaska currently operates three 737-700 and two 737-800 converted freighters. The carrier reported second-quarter cargo revenue of $163 million, up 17% year-over-year, with first-half cargo revenue reaching $316 million, a 21% increase. Revenue includes payments from Amazon for operating 10 Airbus A330-300 freighters and incremental volume on widebody aircraft serving international markets.