Boeing 737 MAX by Alaska Airlines: first class that surprises
Added on Fri December 13th, 2024
The Boeing 737 MAX 9 from Alaska Airlines offers a relatively modern and spacious first class cabin, configured in a 2-2 layout with a total of 16 seats. The Recaro CL4710 seats (now rebranded as R5) feature a 41″ seat pitch, providing more legroom than most other U.S. carriers, which typically offer 37-38″. Each seat is 21.3″ wide and has a 5″ recline. Although the padding is not as plush as that of Alaska’s “classic” 737s, the extra space makes the flight more comfortable.
There is no in-seat entertainment, and instead, there are a literature pocket and a storage pocket for personal items. However, each seat is equipped with a personal device holder and a fold-out tray table that can also serve as a device stand. Two cup holders and both USB-A and AC power outlets are available at every seat. A footrest, which is rare on U.S. flights, adds to the overall comfort. The separation between first class and economy is marked by a curtain and an overhead divider. Additionally, each passenger has an individual air nozzle, and there are large overhead bins.
Overall, the first class cabin on Alaska’s 737 MAX 9 stands out for its spacious comfort, even though it doesn’t compare to fully flat-bed products. While there is no in-seat entertainment, for $8, passengers can access fast Wi-Fi and streaming entertainment, which tends to be quicker since not everyone uses it.
Alaska also offers food, drinks, and services that are above average for U.S. domestic flights. The first-class drink menu includes offerings like Straightaway Oregon Old Fashioned, Crater Lake Hazelnut Espresso Vodka, and wines from the Pacific Northwest.
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