Porter, Alaska Launch Strategic Partnership

A new partnership has formed between two airlines that are each in the midst of an effort to expand their connecting networks. Alaska Airlines and Porter Airlines have announced a new arrangement that will consist of an interline agreement and reciprocal loyalty program benefits.

Expanding Partner Networks

With Alaska having a well-established network on the United States west coast and Porter being a major player in Eastern Canada, the interline agreement will allow for increased connectivity across the continent. Once Porter begins its direct flights from Toronto Pearson to two Alaska hubs in California – Los Angeles and San Francisco – travelers will be able to make connections between Toronto and eighteen western U.S. destinations, including Portland, San Diego and Seattle.

Connectivity will also be available through existing shared airports in the U.S. like Boston Logan International Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport. While there are some Canadian destinations that are served by both airlines, such as Vancouver and Calgary, connections through these airports are expected to become available later in 2024.

“Porter Airlines opens new opportunities for our guests to travel to Canada in style,” said Brett Catlin, Vice President of Loyalty, Alliances and Sales at Alaska Airlines in a press release announcing the new partnership. “We’re thrilled to partner with a vibrant and growing airline that offers a refined experience including top-notch inflight service and terrific onboard amenities.”

Porter Airlines E195-E2 cabin (Photo: AirlineGeeks | Andrew Chen)

Increasing Global Partnerships

Starting in January, Alaska Mileage Plan members will be able to earn points on Porter flights booked through Alaska. Later in the year, members of both loyalty programs, VIPorter and Alaska Mileage Plan, will start to have reciprocal earning in their respective programs on all flights. Access to mileage redemption availability is also planned for 2024.

After exclusively operating turboprops from its base at Toronto Billy Bishop City Airport in downtown Toronto for over a decade, Porter began an ambitious growth plan in 2021. It ordered dozens of Embraer E195-E2 jets and announced that it would begin flying from Toronto Pearson International Airport. These operations began earlier this year and the airline has since been rapidly developing its jet network.

As it attempts to establish itself as Canada’s third major carrier, Porter has been working to increase its connectivity, in part through airline partnerships. For example, Porter recently announced that it would be entering into a joint venture agreement with Air Transat. With Air Canada having a close relationship with fellow Star Alliance member United Airlines and WestJet partnering with SkyTeam member Delta, it is unsurprising to see Porter pursue a partnership with a oneworld member.

“This partnership with Alaska Airlines is a significant win for passengers looking for more choice and better service when flying within Canada and the United States,” Porter Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Kevin Jackson stated. “Alaska and Porter emphasize passenger service excellence on each and every flight. We’re excited about what this means for passengers across North America.”

Although it is a larger and more established airline, Alaska has also been growing its global network. In addition to joining the oneworld alliance in 2021 and recently announcing its intent to acquire Hawaiian Airlines, the Seattle-based carrier has also been adding and expanding partnerships with non-alliance airlines like STARLUX Airlines and Air Tahiti Nui.

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Andrew Chen

Andrew is a lifelong lover of aviation and travel. He has flown all over the world and is fascinated by the workings of the air travel industry. As a private pilot and glider pilot who has worked with airlines, airports and other industry stakeholders, he is always excited to share his passion for aviation with others. In addition to being a writer, he also hosts Flying Smarter, an educational travel podcast that explores the complex world of air travel to help listeners become better-informed and savvier travelers.

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