Alaska Air Carriers Association

06/18/2026

Alaska's aviation system depends on more than airplanes and pilots; it depends on the critical infrastructure that keeps communities connected and flights operating safely.

The recent closure of the FAA Flight Service Stations in Nome and Kotzebue has created significant operational challenges across western Alaska. These facilities provide essential services, including flight plan support, weather and runway information, traffic advisories, and search-and-rescue coordination. Their absence affects the safety, reliability, and efficiency of air transportation for the communities and businesses that rely on aviation every day.

The Alaska Air Carriers Association has urged Alaska's congressional delegation to work with the FAA to restore these vital services as quickly as possible and ensure Alaska's unique aviation needs remain a priority.

We're grateful to the Nome Nugget for highlighting this important issue and the voices of the operators and communities impacted.

The Federal Aviation Administration’s Flight Service Stations in Nome and Kotzebue have been closed for several

05/22/2026

Summer might have all Alaskan Air Carriers flying nonstop (literally!), but here at AACA, we are already looking forward to the 2027 Annual Convention — because the 2026 one left us with full hearts, great memories, and apparently a LOT of great photos! 😄 Swipe through the highlights and all the good vibes. 🙌

Huge love and gratitude to Kevin Campbell for capturing every moment, and to CD Aviation Services and Alaska Airlines for their generous sponsorship. Thanks to every exhibitor, volunteer, board member, attendee, and behind-the-scenes hero who dedicates so much to this community — you truly make it what it is. 🛩️

February can't come soon enough — with trainings, networking, industry updates, Hot Mic storytelling, and so much more awaiting. See you there! ❄️✈️

05/20/2026

Preparing for the FAA Part 135 SMS Mandate?

With the FAA’s Safety Management System (SMS) mandate for Part 135 operators taking effect in 2027, now is the time to start planning.

AACA Associate Member, Nimbl, has put together free educational resources to help operators get ready, including:

- A live webinar on May 28 covering key requirements, common misconceptions, and next steps (link in the comments)

- A month-by-month SMS implementation roadmap to guide your compliance planning

These resources are designed to help operators stay ahead of the mandate and avoid last-minute challenges.

If you’re interested, we encourage you to take advantage of these tools and begin preparing early.

05/08/2026

Thank you, Anchorage Daily News, for the opportunity to share the impacts of elevated aviation fuel costs across Alaska's commercial aviation industry!

A trade group this week urged the congressional delegation to adjust the federal government’s mail delivery reimbursement rate.

05/07/2026

This is member-driven advocacy in action.

AACA members raised the alarm on rising fuel costs—and now that message is being carried directly to USDOT.

In a May 5 letter, Senator Dan Sullivan called for an emergency adjustment to bypass mail rates, echoing concerns our members shared about outdated cost data and real-world impacts on rural Alaska.

Thank you, Senator Sullivan, for your leadership and for standing up for Alaska’s commercial aviation industry. We look forward to Transportation Secretary Duffy's response.

05/06/2026

✈️ Aviation Scholarship Opportunity – Applications Open

The Huffman Foundation is now accepting applications for the Craig Huffman Memorial Scholarship, supporting students pursuing careers in the aviation industry.

✅ Open to applicants age 16+�✅ Must be a U.S. resident with ties to Alaska�✅ Supports education & training in aviation fields�📅 Deadline: July 1, 2026 (11:59 PM AKST) 1

Applicants will need to submit:
- Transcripts (minimum 3.0 GPA)
- A personal essay on aviation goals and leadership
- A letter of reference

This is a great opportunity for aspiring pilots, engineers, technicians, and other aviation professionals.

👉 Apply here: https://www.huffmanfoundation.com/application

04/14/2026

Secretary Duffy and the Federal Aviation Administration announced that the annual air traffic control hiring window opens at 12:00 a.m. (ET) on April 17. It’s a great opportunity for anyone interested in the field.

If you'd like to learn more and have any questions, there is a great opportunity tonight to get them answered!

Join us on Tuesday, April 14 at 4 PM ET for a live conversation with air traffic controllers and experts from the FAA Academy and human resources! Don't miss this opportunity to gain firsthand insights and ask questions: https://www.youtube.com/live/YwaK8LiNkgs

Applications to be an ATC open midnight April 17. Learn more at faa.gov/atc-hiring

04/06/2026

🚨 Only TWO sponsorship spots remain for AACA’s Family Assistance Operations Workshop! ✈️💙

This is an incredible opportunity to put your company’s name in front of Alaska’s aviation leaders while showing your commitment to safety, community, and industry excellence. 🏔️🛩️

Whether you choose to sponsor refreshments for the day ☕🍪 or step up as our Safety Ambassador ⭐, your support helps make this important workshop possible and strengthens aviation safety across Alaska.

✨ Gain brand visibility
✨ Connect directly with attendees
✨ Be recognized by industry leadership
✨ Show your dedication to Alaska aviation

Don’t miss your chance to be part of something meaningful—and be seen by air carriers across the state. 🙌

📩 Reach out today to claim one of the final two spots before they’re gone!

03/30/2026

🚨 Alaska aviation community — this one is a BIG deal! 🚨

For the first time in a long time, the National Transportation Safety Board is bringing its Family Assistance Operations Workshop right here to Alaska — and it's happening because YOU asked for it! The overwhelming demand from Alaska's air carriers made this possible, and we're thrilled to deliver.

If you're an air carrier employee or aviation management student, you cannot afford to miss this. Seats are LIMITED, and registration is required, so don't wait! ✈️

📅 April 21 & 22, 2026 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
📍 Ted Stevens South Terminal, A Concourse Event Area

Register now at AlaskaAirCarriers.org before it's too late!