Alaska Airlines Imposes Temporary Freight Embargo

SEATTLE — Alaska Airlines (AS) has implemented a temporary freight embargo affecting several stations across the State of Alaska, citing operational constraints during the peak winter period.

Effective December 16, 2025, at 3:55 p.m. PT, all cargo shipments to and from Barrow (BRW), Bethel (BET), Nome (OME), Kotzebue (OTZ), and Dillingham (DLG) are embargoed through Sunday, December 21, 2025, with the sole exception of GoldStreak (GSX) shipments. All freight tendered during this period must meet GoldStreak eligibility requirements.

The carrier said no immediate customer action is required and advised shippers to monitor updates or contact Alaska Airlines Cargo for additional guidance as conditions evolve.

Winter Season Caveats

Seasonal embargoes can be a recurring feature of Alaska’s winter aviation cycle. Each year, extreme cold, reduced daylight, ice fog, runway contamination, and aircraft performance can limit constrain cargo capacity, particularly in remote bush communities that rely heavily on air freight.

Airlines prioritize essential traffic such as medical supplies, mail, and time-critical shipments like GoldStreak during peak winter periods, with embargoes commonly appearing between December and March.

These measures are operational safeguards rather than service withdrawals, allowing carriers to maintain schedule integrity and safety while managing limited lift during Alaska’s most challenging months.