An expansion of Portland International Airport isn’t just adding a modern look but will also move Alaska’s operations to the other side of the terminal, creating a new experience for customers who travel through this hub. Living in Seattle, Alaska’s headquarters, means I have a lot of non-stop options. However, a quick hop to PDX can sometimes mean lower fares or better upgrade availability.
This missed my radar when it was first announced last year, and again when new drawings were shared in September. Thanks to noah on FlyerTalk for bringing it to my attention.
PDX is designed with a central ticketing area that leads to security checkpoints on either side. Alaska currently shares space with several airlines in Concourses B, C, and D, while running its regional operations out of Concourse A. The problem is that A/B/C is getting pretty crowded, and D is on the opposite end of the airport with Concourse E (and United Airlines’ regional operations).
Once Concourse E is expanded, Alaska and United will be able to switch places. Alaska will focus everything on one side in Concourses D and E.
There’s still not much except drawings and a plan to eventually move the two carriers — a process that will take about two days. Construction won’t be completed until late 2017. I think the new layout will help organize things better, and I expect it will also mean we can look forward to a new Board Room location!
