Alaska Airlines Announces Portland-New Orleans Route Launch for 2025

Alaska Airlines is set to introduce a new daily service between Portland International Airport (PDX) in Oregon and Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) starting January 6, 2025. This route will mark Alaska’s 55th destination from PDX and will operate with a Boeing 737 aircraft exclusively flown by the airline until May 14, 2025.

Kevin Dolliole, Director of MSY, highlighted Portland as “the top unserved destination from New Orleans,” underscoring the anticipated demand for this new connection. Alaska Airlines, the largest carrier at PDX, currently operates more than 100 daily departures from the airport and is expanding its network further with additional routes like daily flights to Atlanta starting October 1.

Dan Pippenger, Chief Aviation Officer of the Port of Portland, expressed optimism about the new route, stating, “Until now, New Orleans was one of the largest U.S. markets without a nonstop from PDX. Tens of thousands of travelers already fly between these two great cities every year, and we expect that number to only grow with this new nonstop service.” The Port of Portland, which owns and manages PDX, is supportive of expanding connectivity options for travelers.

In addition to the new route, Alaska Airlines is investing in enhancing passenger experience at PDX with the construction of a 14,000-square-foot lounge scheduled to open in 2026, further bolstering its commitment to serving the Portland community and beyond.