When the Civil Aeronautics Board gave Alaska Airlines a permanent certificate to serve Portland-Seattle-Fairbanks-Anchorage routes in 1951, a connection was established between Alaska and the Lower 48. A connection that, over the next 70 years, would prove essential for Alaskans seeking medical care, visiting loved ones and traveling the world. Once Pacific Northwest routes were established, Alaska Airlines entered an era of innovation. Larger Douglas DC-6 pressurized planes were added to the fleet allowing our pilots to fly in the clouds and harsh weather, and we ramped up our cargo operations. Connecting Alaskans to the PNW was our first step in connecting them to the world.
