Tucson International Airport’s newest nonstop destination airport is Paine Field in Everett, Washington. While the destination might come as a surprise to some, it is welcome news for those in Seattle who know of its advantages.

Alaska Airlines will begin the new daily nonstop flights on November 19. Tickets are available for purchase now on alaskaair.com.

The announcement Thursday (June 3) was part of a larger announcement that Alaska is resuming full service to the popular airport north of Seattle, reinstating flights to eight other destinations that were cut during 2020 during the pandemic.

While the thought of a visit to warm, sunny Tucson in the winter will appeal to those in the Pacific Northwest, it is also worth noting that there are five ski resorts within a 2½-hour drive from Paine Field.

Danette Bewley, President and CEO of the Tucson Airport Authority, welcomed the new flights. “With these new flights, TUS is now back to 19 nonstop destinations for Southern Arizona travelers, including the return of additional California flights starting this month. What is more impressive is that Everett is the second new destination, after Houston Hobby, that has been added despite the events of the past year. That says something about the confidence others see in our region.”

Last year’s cuts at Paine Field happened just as the airport was enjoying acclaim after opening its new airline passenger terminal in March 2019 that many regard as a model for design and customer experience, coupled with a small airport feel. Among other things, the airport lobby resembles a high-end hotel lobby and the lounges near the gates have a living room feel, including two fireplaces.

“It has definitely been a difficult stretch, but our commitment to Paine Field never wavered,” said Brett Catlin, vice president of network and alliances at Alaska Airlines. “Our guests love the convenience of the airport. Next year, as we continue to offer additional flights, we’ll be in a position to resume our full allotment of 18 departures every day to the places our guests want to fly to the most.”

All flights into Paine Field are on Embraer 175 jet aircraft featuring First Class and Premium Class, and only window and aisle seating – no middle seats. Guests can enjoy hundreds of free movies and TV shows available for viewing on personal devices; free texting on most flights; and Wi-Fi connectivity for purchase.

Other destinations served by Alaska from Paine Field are Las Vegas, Orange County, Palm Springs, Phoenix, San Diego and San Francisco.

As flyers begin traveling again, Alaska remains committed to Next-Level Care for its guests and employees – from clean planes to clean air in the cabin (with hospital-grade air filtration systems). Alaska also continues to enforce the federally mandated mask policy even for those who are fully vaccinated.