Alaska Airlines Plans to Join American's Atlantic and Pacific Joint Businesses

Alaska Airlines intends to join American's Atlantic and Pacific Joint Businesses, the two carriers announced September 29, 2026. It is a plan, not a done deal, and nothing about how you earn or redeem Atmos Rewards or AAdvantage miles changes today.

• Atlantic Joint Business: formed in 2010, includes American, British Airways, Iberia, Finnair, Aer Lingus and LEVEL.
• Pacific Joint Business: includes American and Japan Airlines.
• Approvals: the airlines anticipate filing for U.S. Department of Transportation approval and antitrust immunity, plus approvals from international regulators, in the coming months. No timeline was given.

Both airlines are already oneworld members, and the stated goal is smoother access to international destinations while keeping the loyalty benefits and premium experience Alaska guests expect. What it means for members has not been announced, so we are leaving the guessing out. The two things to watch are regulatory approvals and any benefits announcement.