What happened
Alaska Air Group's Atmos Rewards program has rolled out a new perk for Titanium elites as of late April 2026: day-of-departure upgrades into business class on all global flights, without using points or certificates. This applies to the member and one companion on the same reservation, making it the only US program to offer such a global perk. Additionally, upgrade certificates earned through milestone perks can now be used on Alaska and Hawaiian long-haul routes outside the Americas. Requirements vary: two certificates for Alaska long-haul routes out of Seattle, and two for Hawaiian long-haul routes (except Pago Pago, Papeete, and Rarotonga which require one). The upgrade process involves submitting a request form 30 days to 73 hours before departure. Upgrades may process between 72 hours and 4 hours before departure. If not cleared by 4 hours prior, the waitlist closes. Certificate holders get priority over Titanium members for advance clearing, while Titanium members have exclusive access to last-minute upgrades within the final 4 hours