Alaska Airlines debuts its first ever custom-brewed beer

Alaska Airlines has launched its first custom craft beer, an IPA named Cloud Cruiser, brewed exclusively for the carrier by Fremont Brewing.

Speaking to the drinks business, Alaska Airlines managing director of guest products Todd Traynor-Corey said that “Cloud Cruiser costs US$8.50 per 355ml can inflight and is free with lounge access and is 6.5% ABV”.

Describing the launch, Traynor-Corey revealed that “the only place in the world you’ll be able to find this one-of-a-kind craft beer is if you’re flying on Alaska or in one of our lounges.”

Fremont Brewing, which brews small batch beers in the Fremont neighbourhood of Seattle, worked closely with the airline to produce a variety of blends to “taste test at 30,000 feet in the air” before both companies chose the “bright orange, melon and tropical notes” of the brewery’s IPA.

Fremont Brewing founder and owner Matt Lincecum explained: “Cloud Cruiser IPA is brewed with a select blend of malts and Washington grown to stay fresh in the air with you.”

The beer is housed in a “uniquely-designed can” which features an Alaska Airlines 737-8 MAX flying among the clouds above “snow-capped mountains, trees and water synonymous with Washington state”.

Traynor-Corey added: “We have already received feedback from the first guests to taste our new premium West Coast product who say they can’t wait to fly us again and order another can of Cloud Cruiser.”