Alaska Airlines announced Thursday it will add a Monday morning flight from Seattle to Detroit to accommodate Mariners fans traveling to support the team during away playoff games.
The extra flight will feature a special departure event at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, according to airline officials. Passengers will board the Seattle Mariners-themed aircraft displaying the team’s logo, Mariner Moose mascot, and the phrase “Fly, Fly Away,” honoring Hall of Fame broadcaster Dave Niehaus.
The airport event will include a DJ performance and appearance by the Mariner Moose mascot.
Alaska Airlines, which has partnered with the Mariners since 2001, celebrated the team’s recent American League West championship, their first division title since 2001, in a statement.
“The Seattle Mariners are American League West champions for the first time since 2001, and as the official airline sponsor of the Mariners, we couldn’t be prouder of this amazing team,” the airline stated.
The special flight adds capacity for fans seeking to attend Games 3 and potentially Game 4 of the playoff series in Detroit, where the Mariners face either the Tigers or Guardians depending on wild card outcomes.
Alaska Airlines operates the Mariners-branded aircraft as part of its sports team partnerships, which also include themed livery for other Pacific Northwest professional teams. The airline frequently schedules charter and additional commercial flights for major sporting events.
The Monday departure timing allows fans to attend weekend home games at T-Mobile Park before traveling to Detroit for midweek away games. The Mariners begin their playoff series with home games Saturday and Sunday before the series shifts to Detroit.
