by Channel 2 News staff
Thursday, April 22, 2010
ANCHORAGE, Alaska -- Alaska Airlines is flying high so far in 2010.
The Seattle-based carrier says it turned a profit during the first three months of the year.
The airline earned almost $5.5 million in the quarter -- quite a turnaround from the $19 million it lost during the same period last year.
Alaska Airlines says lower costs and a focus on its domestic flights accounted for the positive financial report. Things would have been even better were it not for a $12.5 million loss on a fuel hedge.
The airline also says it's changing its fees for checking bags.
The price for travelers' first bag is going up $5 to $20. A second checked bag will also cost $20 -- a $5 decrease.
Alaska Air Group owns Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air.
