SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 22, 2001--Frequent flyers have recognized Alaska Airlines (NYSE:ALK) as the best major U.S. carrier according to the recently released 2001 Zagat Airline Survey.

Among the nation's 10 largest airlines, Alaska earned the top rating from frequent flyers responding to the 2001 Zagat Airline Survey. Alaska also rated first among the majors in the categories of food and comfort, and ranked a close second in the category of service, separated by less than three one-hundredths of a point from Southwest Airlines.

When rated against 22 domestic carriers -- the 10 major U.S. carriers as well as smaller airlines -- Alaska ranked a respectable third behind niche, specialty carriers Midwest Express and JetBlue. However, Alaska's first class service was rated the best of all domestic carriers.

According to the 2001 Zagat ratings, Alaska offers "great value" with "friendly service" and satisfies everyone from "trappers to tourists" with its "roomy seats" and "good food".

"After what was no doubt the most difficult year in our 69-year history, it's reassuring, and quite frankly, a bit humbling to learn that once again we've been recognized as the best major carrier in the nation," said Bill Ayer, Alaska's president and chief operating officer.

The Zagat survey follows similar recognition by the readers of the Travel & Leisure and Conde Nast Traveler magazines, who also rated Alaska the best major U.S. carrier.

The 2001 Zagat Airline Survey is based on input from 31,500 frequent flyers who ranked 70 domestic and international carriers in the categories of comfort, service and food on Zagat's signature 30-point scale. Detailed results are available at www.zagat.com.

Alaska Airlines serves more than 40 destinations in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. For reservations, visit us at www.alaskaair.com. Or call your travel agent or Alaska's toll-free reservation line at 1-800-ALASKAAIR (1-800-252-7522).

--30--APS/se*