Alaska Airlines Expands with New Regional Routes and Flights

Alaska Airlines is adding three new regional routes later this year, increasing travel options for customers in California, Idaho and Nevada. Beginning Nov. 5, the airline will introduce daily round-trip service between Los Angeles (LAX) and Monterey (MRY), and between Boise (BOI) and Reno (RNO). Additionally, a new seasonal flight between Los Angeles and Gunnison/Crested Butte (GUC) will begin in December to serve skiers and snowboarders heading from Southern California to Colorado.

“We continue to invest in our Los Angeles focus city and in expanding our regional route network,” said John Kirby, Alaska’s vice president of capacity planning. “These new flights will connect key cities in California, Idaho and Nevada, and provide a convenient new ski destination for customers in Southern California.”

The routes will be operated by Alaska’s sister carrier, Horizon Air, using 76-seat Bombardier Q400 aircraft. Passengers can expect complimentary soft drinks and Starbucks coffee onboard, and for travelers 21 and older, complimentary Northwest wine and regional microbrews.

Monterey’s connection to Los Angeles will expand leisure and business travel options along California’s Central Coast, offering an easy same-day schedule for weekend getaways or coastal meetings. The Boise–Reno service strengthens regional ties between Idaho and Nevada, improving access for both business travelers and visitors looking to explore nearby attractions.

The seasonal Los Angeles–Gunnison/Crested Butte flight targets winter sports travelers, providing a direct link from Southern California to one of Colorado’s well-regarded ski areas. This service aims to simplify travel plans for skiers and snowboarders by reducing layovers and ground transfers, making mountain trips more convenient.

These additions reflect Alaska Airlines’ broader strategy to grow its regional network out of Los Angeles and enhance point-to-point connectivity in the western United States. With Horizon Air operating the shorter regional sectors, passengers can expect frequent departures and regional aircraft configured for comfort on short-haul routes.

Travelers interested in these new routes can anticipate standard onboard amenities and regional service features typical of Horizon Air operations. As schedules take effect in November and December, customers should check availability and book early to secure preferred flight times during peak travel periods such as holiday weekends and the winter ski season.