This specific designation refers to a scheduled passenger flight operated by Alaska Airlines. Such identifiers are essential for air traffic control, scheduling, and tracking purposes. They allow airlines to manage their operations efficiently and ensure safe and organized air travel. A specific flight number, like this one, helps distinguish one particular flight from all others on a given route, even on the same day.
Understanding specific flight designations is crucial for passengers, enabling them to book the correct flight, track its status, and access relevant information. For the airline, it represents a specific instance of a scheduled service, allowing for detailed record-keeping related to crew, passengers, cargo, and maintenance. Historical data associated with a specific flight can be valuable for analysis, contributing to improved safety and operational efficiency.