What is Main Preferred on Alaska Airlines?

Main Preferred on Alaska Airlines: If you’ve ever flown with Alaska Airlines or are planning to, you might have come across the term Main Cabin Preferred when selecting your seat. So, what exactly is Main Preferred, and why is it such a popular choice among passengers? In this guide, we’ll dive deep into what Main Preferred on Alaska Airlines offers, how it differs from other seating options, and why it’s a great option for many travelers.

Understanding Main Preferred on Alaska Airlines

Main Preferred is an upgraded seating option available to passengers flying in the Main Cabin on Alaska Airlines. It offers extra comfort and convenience for a relatively small fee compared to the standard Main Cabin seats. The Main Preferred seats are located in desirable areas of the plane, making them a great choice for travelers who want a little more space and quicker boarding or deplaning.

Key Features of Main Preferred:

• More Legroom: These seats are generally located toward the front of the plane or in exit rows, offering additional legroom compared to standard Main Cabin seats.
• Convenient Location: Main Preferred seats are placed at the front of the Main Cabin, giving passengers quicker access to the plane’s exit upon arrival.
• Priority Boarding: While Main Preferred doesn’t come with full priority boarding (like First Class or Premium Class), you’ll still board earlier than most Main Cabin passengers.
• Frequent Flyer Benefits: Elite status members of Alaska’s Mileage Plan can select Main Preferred seats for free, making it a great perk for frequent flyers.

Main Preferred vs. Other Seating Options

Alaska Airlines offers a variety of seating choices, each catering to different traveler needs. Let’s compare Main Preferred to other seating options:

Seating Option	Key Features	Best For
Main Preferred	Extra legroom, front-of-plane seating, early boarding	Travelers looking for more comfort without high costs
Main Cabin	Standard seating, no extra perks	Budget-conscious passengers
Premium Class	Extra legroom, free alcoholic beverages, priority boarding	Passengers seeking premium perks without First Class
First Class	Reclining seats, full meal service, priority boarding	Travelers looking for luxury and full-service benefits

While First Class and Premium Class offer more amenities, Main Preferred is perfect for travelers who want a balance of comfort and affordability.

Why Choose Main Preferred on Alaska Airlines?

Main Preferred seats are ideal for a range of passengers, from business travelers needing to disembark quickly to leisure travelers who appreciate a bit more legroom. Let’s take a closer look at why you might opt for this seating option:

1. More Legroom for Comfort

Legroom can make a significant difference during a flight, especially for taller passengers. Main Preferred seats are often located in rows that provide extra legroom, such as the exit rows. This allows for a more comfortable flight, especially on longer routes.

2. Faster Deplaning

Main Preferred seats are located at the front of the Main Cabin, meaning you’ll be one of the first passengers to deplane after landing. This can save you valuable time, particularly if you have a tight connection or are in a hurry to get to your destination.

3. Early Boarding

Although Main Preferred doesn’t include full priority boarding, passengers still get to board earlier than those in standard Main Cabin seats. This early boarding advantage ensures you have more overhead bin space for your carry-on luggage.

4. Great for Elite Mileage Plan Members

If you’re a frequent flyer with Alaska Airlines and have elite status (MVP, MVP Gold, MVP Gold 75K), Main Preferred seats are available at no additional charge. This makes it a highly attractive option for regular travelers looking to enhance their flying experience.

How to Book Main Preferred Seats

Booking Main Preferred seats is straightforward, and you can select them when purchasing your flight ticket or during check-in. Here’s a step-by-step guide to booking:

1. Choose Your Flight: When booking your flight on the Alaska Airlines website or app, proceed as usual.
2. Seat Selection: During the seat selection process, you’ll see available Main Preferred seats marked on the seat map. They are typically shaded differently from standard Main Cabin seats.
3. Pay the Fee (if applicable): For non-elite members, there will be a small fee (usually between $15 and $50, depending on the flight) to upgrade to Main Preferred.
4. Confirm Your Seat: Complete the seat selection and confirm your booking. You’re all set to enjoy the perks of Main Preferred on your flight!

Can You Upgrade to Main Preferred After Booking?

Yes! If you didn’t select Main Preferred when booking your ticket, you can still upgrade during online check-in or at the airport, subject to availability.

Common Questions About Main Preferred on Alaska Airlines

Is Main Preferred Worth the Extra Cost?

For most travelers, Main Preferred is worth the small upgrade fee, especially on longer flights where extra legroom and a more convenient seat can make a significant difference in comfort. It’s a great middle ground between standard seating and more expensive options like Premium Class or First Class.

Can I Get Main Preferred Seats for Free?

If you’re an Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan elite member (MVP, MVP Gold, MVP Gold 75K), you can select Main Preferred seats for free, making it a fantastic perk for loyal customers.

Do Main Preferred Seats Include Extra Amenities?

Main Preferred primarily offers extra legroom and preferred seating locations. It does not come with additional amenities like free food or beverages, which are perks reserved for Premium Class or First Class.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Main Preferred

Here are a few tips to ensure you maximize your Main Preferred experience:

• Book Early: Main Preferred seats can fill up quickly, especially on popular routes. Book early to secure your seat.
• Check for Mileage Plan Perks: If you’re a Mileage Plan member with elite status, take advantage of the free Main Preferred seating options.
• Consider the Flight Duration: For longer flights, the extra legroom and comfort of Main Preferred can make a noticeable difference in your experience.

Conclusion

Main Preferred on Alaska Airlines is an excellent choice for passengers looking for a bit more comfort without the high cost of Premium Class or First Class. With extra legroom, faster deplaning, and early boarding, it’s an ideal option for business travelers and leisure passengers alike. Whether you’re an elite Mileage Plan member or a casual traveler, Main Preferred offers a valuable upgrade to make your flying experience more enjoyable.