USA — The best domestic airline for skiers in the USA isn’t a definitive choice anymore. I’d say it used to be Southwest, but their introduction of baggage fees and assigned seating will make some skiers look elsewhere. This could result in other airlines adding more ski-focused routes, as American Airlines did earlier this year with its addition of Sun Valley. Now, another airline is adding more ski routes.
Last week, Alaska Airlines announced its new routes for the winter of 2025-26. For skiers, the most noteworthy route is San Diego to Sun Valley. Starting on December 18th, there will be three flights per week at each airport.
While not as noteworthy, other new routes could be worth a look for skiers and riders. The Burbank to Eugene route will connect SoCal to the University of Oregon, and more importantly, Willamette Pass, which is around an hour away from the city. The Burbank to Redmond/Bend route will give access to Mt. Bachelor and Hoodoo. The Ontario to Boise trip will connect skiers to Bogus Basin, among other destinations, to make for an Idaho ski trip. The Orange County to Spokane flight connects to ski areas like Mt. Spokane, 49 Degrees North, Silver Mountain, Schweitzer, and Red Mountain. While the trickiest of the commutes, the SoCal airports give access to mountains like Mt. Baldy and Big Bear Mountain Resort.
“We’re the only global airline based on the West Coast, and we’re proud to offer the most flights and seats between California, Washington and Oregon, said Kirsten Amrine, who’s the Vice President of Revenue Management and Network Planning for Alaska Airlines. “These new additions further expand our ability to take our guests between growing markets in California and the Pacific Northwest for leisure and business travel.”
With a strengthened network thanks to its recent acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines, it’ll be fascinating to see what other new routes are in store for the years ahead.
Image/Video Credits: Fudo Jahic, Alaska Airlines (3DF)
