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View Full Version : Wings of Alaska buys Haines Airways/Alaska Coastal Airlines


Cyclic Hotline
30th Mar 2001, 03:27
Probably not anything that will interest, but a small number of PPRuNers, but there is to be an official announcement of this sale in the next 30 minutes! :)

Like everyhing related to the Aviation world; - you read it here first! ;)

For Release
Juneau, Alaska.
3 p.m. March 29, 2001

For more information call: Bob Jacobsen, President, Wings of Alaska Airlines, 789-9863 or Ken Simpson, President Alaska Coastal Airlines,
586-1399.

Wings of Alaska Airlines Acquires Alaska Coastal Airlines


Wings of Alaska Airlines President Robert Jacobsen announced today that Wings has signed an agreement to acquire Alaska Coastal Airlines and Haines Airways.
Alaska Coastal Airlines and Haines Airways have operated in Southeast Alaska since the mid-1980s. The Alaska Coastal name in aviation dates back to the early 1930s.
“This acquisition will make Wings and all carriers in the region stronger,” Jacobsen said. “It ultimately benefits Wings’ customers, Alaska Coastal and Haines Airways customers, and all those who travel or ship cargo in Southeast.”
“Wings of Alaska has established a reputation for excellence that has been a model for our organization,” said Dr. Thomas Hall, Haines Airways and Alaska Coastal owner. “We believe this arrangement is the best opportunity to continue providing quality air transportation on behalf of our customers and the regions we serve.”
Jacobsen said he anticipates a seamless transition. “There will be challenges, yet I am confident our employees are up to the task.”
Wings will maintain former Coastal and Haines routes and honor all outstanding tickets – including those held by all Gold Medal participants.

Wings of Alaska will also honor the Coastal and Haines frequent flyer program under the current rules of the Wings program. The airline has also encouraged Alaska Coastal employees to apply for positions within Wings.
Wings will add extra flights on Sunday for Gold Medal participants and has added additional flights to its current published schedule beginning Monday.
“In this time of change, we are pleased the individuals and communities we currently serve will continue to receive excellent service from Wings. I also believe our employees appreciate the opportunity to become part of the Wings family,” said Ken Simpson, Alaska Coastal Airlines President.
Starting today, the Coastal/Haines reservations team will be working with Wings’ reservations to merge the companies operations. Wings will continue to operate from its present counter location in the Juneau Airport.
Wings Director of Marketing Holly Bierkortte said plans call for Wings to occupy the Coastal/Haines facilities in Hoonah and Gustavus in the near future. The company will continue to operate from the current Wings facilities at the Haines airport. All other locations remain the same.
“We’re taking advantage of the best of both organizations for the benefit of our customers,” Bierkortte said.