Alaska Airlines’ Annual Copper River Salmon Flight Returns

In what has become an annual rite of summer each year — especially for the chow hounds of the Pacific Northwest — Alaska Airlines flew its first shipment of just-caught Copper River salmon to destinations around the United States.

The season’s first shipment of the prized salmon flew from Cordova, Alaska, to Seattle just in time for summer grilling season. The flight transported 22,000 pounds of the first fish of the season.

More flights continued as the season opener commenced, with fish making their way throughout the Lower 48.

“Alaska Airlines plays a significant role in supporting the Alaska seafood industry, which is recognized worldwide for its sustainable fishing practices,” said Jason Berry, managing director, Alaska Air Cargo. “Our Cargo employees are working around the clock to ensure we deliver the first catch of the coveted wild Copper River salmon to market, often within 24 hours of being pulled from the water.”

Every year, Alaska Airlines celebrates the start of the season with tarmac grill-offs in Seattle and Anchorage. The winning recipes are posted online.