Back to the future in Alaska
Alaska Air Cargo recently launched service to two new markets in Alaska, Cold Bay and Unalakleet, where the carrier touched down for the first time in 45 years with its B737-700F. Alaska Airlines served this hub of activity for many surrounding villages from the 1950s with DC-3, DC-4, Convair 340, Lockheed Constellation and finally B727-100, before the Civil Aeronautics Board cancelled the service.
With 21 destinations served in the US state, the carrier is now filling the gap left by the regional airline Ravn Alaska which ceased operations on 5 April.
Last week, Ravn Air Group had been approved by the US Treasury to receive USD 31.6 million in Covid-19 aid grants. This financing will be available to pay employee salaries and benefits to Treasury-approved bidders seeking to buy the entire group. (ah)