SEATTLE, Jan 17, 2002 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Alaska Airlines (NYSE:ALK) announced today it is implementing a variety of baggage screening measures and will be in full compliance with the government's requirement that all checked baggage be screened beginning Jan. 18.

"We are prepared and expect operations to go smoothly with minimal delays," said Ed White, Alaska's vice president of customer services. "Customers should not notice a significant change. Most of the procedures are behind the scenes."

Here are some tips Alaska Airlines' passengers can use as the heightened security process is implemented:

    --  Arrive on time. Go to Alaska Airlines' Web site,
        www.alaskaair.com, to check minimum arrival times for each
        airport. Click on "Travel Advisories" and then on "When to
        Arrive at the Airport."
    --  Take less baggage, both carry-on and checked, when possible.
        Remember FAA carry-on baggage rules allow each customer one
        standard-size carry-on bag and one personal item such as a
        purse, briefcase or laptop computer. Make sure to place
        identification both outside and inside of all bags. To avoid
        delays and inconvenience at security checkpoints, remember
        that sharp objects are not allowed in carry-on baggage.
    --  After checking in and receiving a boarding pass go directly to
        the gate. Remember that flight reservations are subject to
        cancellation if you are not at the gate prepared to board 20
        minutes prior to scheduled flight departure.
    --  If after checking in, you have any last-minute change of
        plans, contact a customer service agent immediately. You may
        experience new restrictions on last-minute requests to change
        flights.

-- Be patient. Remember that heightened security measures are in

place for everyone's safety.

For more news and information, visit the Alaska Airlines Newsroom on the Internet at http://newsroom.alaskaair.com.

CONTACT:          Alaska Airlines
                  Jack Walsh, 206/901-8753                 
                  or
                  Jack Evans, 206/433-3134

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