Alaska Airlines Captains Larry Packer and Blake Gibson piloted the Boeing 737-Max 8 during Saturday’s event, marking a significant milestone for the airline and airshow.
“As a retired U.S. Navy Blue Angel pilot, participating in this event will be profoundly meaningful to me,” Capt. Packer said earlier today. “As I approach retirement, this will be an unforgettable moment in my career at Alaska Airlines.”
Gibson also plans to retire in the coming months. Together, they bring over 60 years of experience with Alaska Airlines.
The flyover featured the Alaska Airlines
“Honoring Those Who Serve” aircraft, one of four specially designed planes in the Alaska fleet dedicated to U.S. military service members. The aircraft’s design, created by a group of Alaska maintenance technicians, pays tribute to both current and past service members.
It includes a red stripe and blue body inspired by the American flag, with the phrase “Honoring Those Who Serve” prominently displayed on the fuselage. Additional details include symbolic crests representing the
Alaska Airlines Fallen Soldier Program and a special “Alaska Airlines Salutes” medallion featuring six stars and stripes that honor the six branches of the U.S. Armed Forces: Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force.
In addition to the flyover, Alaska is proud to announce its new role as a sponsor of the Miramar Airshow, the largest military airshow in the U.S.
“Supporting events like the Miramar Airshow not only brings our community together, but also provides a platform to honor and recognize the dedication and sacrifice of our military,” said David Tucker, managing director of Public Affairs at Alaska Airlines. “This event holds personal significance for me as well – my father served in the U.S. Air Force for 22 years. I’m grateful to the Miramar Airshow for recognizing the tireless efforts of our employees who support the military community every day.”
Alaska Airlines is the leading airline in San Diego, offering the most destinations of any airline, including new routes to Reno and Vail.
As the only national airline based on the West Coast, Alaska has proudly served our guests throughout California for more than 40 years with hubs in San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego.
