Alaska's subscription-based flight pass now includes free elite status, more routes

Alaska Airlines is making some changes to its flight pass.

The Seattle-based carrier unveiled on Thursday an expansion of its subscription-based travel pass, which now includes a promotionalMVP elite status membership.

All new Flight Pass subscribers will receive complimentary MVP status in Alaska's Mileage Plan during the month of November.

Those who enroll in the entry level Flight Pass will receive complimentary MVP status, while those who purchase a Flight Pass Pro subscription will receive gold status.

The complimentary status will be processed on your account no later than December 7th. You will have a year to enjoy the status perks after the complimentary status ends.

You need to enroll in a 12 or 24 trips-per-year subscription to get complimentary status. The elite perks will not be given to people who buy a six trip package.

Alaska explained that it's making this move because subscribers are investing with the airline and committing to take a certain number of trips each year, which would likely be enough to earn status by the end of the year. The Mileage Plan miles can be earned on flights taken as part of the subscription.

Thanks to subscribers for their commitment to Alaska Airlines, elite benefits that would normally be earned after a year can now be enjoyed from the very beginning. Flight Pass members will be able to enjoy the perks of being Mileage Plan elite members throughout their subscription, including upgrades to first and premium class, earned bonus miles and free checked bags, according to Neil Thwaitesm, Alaska's regional vice president of California.

The reach of the Flight Pass is being expanded. There are now flights between Salt Lake City and San Francisco and San Diego.

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Since there are only two routes from Utah, the Flight Pass won't be as useful for Salt Lake City residents.

Those who frequent popular resorts in the area, such as Deer Valley and Park City, could definitely find value in this expansion.

The Flight Pass now covers 20 routes, all of which can be seen in the updated map below.

The flight from Reno to Los Angeles was stopped due to a shortage of crew. The service will be suspended through the winter and will be back on line in the spring of23.

Alaska shared some information about its new flight pass. Since its launch in February, the airline has seen good traction from young people in northern California. The most popular plan is the $49 per month option that includes six round-trip flights a year.

Check out the comprehensive guide for more information.