SEATTLE, Oct. 3 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Alaska Airlines was rated the

No. 1 airline in Conde Nast Traveler magazine`s 2005 Business Travel Awards.

Published in the October issue, the annual survey of the magazine`s business

travelers rated Alaska the top domestic airline for coach and first-class

service.

Alaska Airlines edged out nine of its U.S. counterparts, including five

major carriers, for its first-ever top ranking in the poll for premium

service. In past years, Alaska has rated in the top five in the survey.

``We are honored to receive this recognition, as it truly reflects all that

we`ve been doing to raise the bar in providing exceptional value and service

to our business travelers,`` said Tom Romary, the airline`s vice president of

marketing. ``We thank our employees who, day-in and day-out, give the extra

effort that makes such a difference to our customers.``

Alaska received the highest ratings for its cabin service and frequent

flier privileges, and scored in the top two for value for cost; food and

beverages; and seat comfort and legroom.

The magazine polled more than 10,000 readers who identified themselves as

frequent business travelers. The annual survey also rates international

airlines and hotels.

Among carriers with single-class (coach-only) service, Alaska`s sister

airline, Horizon Air, rated fifth and was the only regional airline to make

the list. Horizon was highly rated for its food and beverages, cabin service

and frequent flier privileges.

Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air together serve 88 cities through an

expansive network throughout Alaska, the Lower 48, Canada and Mexico. For

reservations visit alaskaair.com. For more news and information, visit the

Alaska Airlines/Horizon Air newsroom at http://newsroom.alaskaair.com .