SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 20, 2001--Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air are asking passengers to travel smart this holiday season in light of the heightened airport security they'll no doubt encounter before their flights:

• Take the express way. Special express lanes have been set up in Seattle and Portland to speed passengers through the security checkpoints. In Seattle, a separate security line has been created for passengers with no carry-on luggage, passengers in wheelchairs, MVP Gold cardholders and Horizon Shuttle passengers to Portland. In Portland, a similar line has been created exclusively for Horizon Shuttle passengers traveling to Seattle.

• One carry-on only. New FAA rules allow each customer to carry one standard-sized carry-on bag and one small personal item such as a purse, briefcase or laptop computer. Better yet, check your luggage in advance.

• No wrapped packages. All packages are subject to inspection by security screeners, including wrapped packages and gifts. Wrapped packages will be unwrapped, so wait until you arrive at your destination to wrap any packages.

• No sharp objects. No knives, scissors, fingernail files, knitting needles or other sharp objects are allowed beyond the security checkpoint. Place these items in your checked luggage only, or better yet, leave them at home.

• Arrive in time. Travelers should arrive at the airport up to two hours prior their flight's scheduled departure time. (For a list of specific arrival time recommendations for all airports served by Alaska and Horizon, visit alaskaair.com.) Also remember that reservations are cancelled if passengers are not at the gate ready to board 20 minutes prior to flight time.

• Limit electronic devices. Cell phones, pagers, laptop computers, digital assistants, CD players and other electronic devices will be scrutinized more carefully at security checkpoints. Because you may be asked to remove each item from your bag and turn it on for screeners, save time by limiting the number of devices you carry with you.

• Pack plenty of patience. Traveling is stressful for everyone this holiday, including those helping to get you on your way. Understand 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 or the Horizon Air Newsroom at http://newsroom.horizonair.com.

--30--APS/se*