ADVISORY/Alaska Airlines Reveals 'Spirit of Disneyland;' First Domestic Aircraft Featuring Disney Characters; Erik Lindbergh and Mickey Mouse Celebrate Inaugural Flight.

News Editors/Assignment Desks

ADVISORY...for Monday (Dec. 16)

For Monday, December 16, News Budget

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 13, 2002

WHAT: The Eskimo that has adorned the tail of all Alaska Airlines aircraft for over a quarter century is taking a well deserved vacation -- at least on one aircraft that is. In his place, the faces of Disney's most recognized theme park characters -- Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy -- take to the skies on a newly-painted Alaska Airlines Boeing 737-400 named "Spirit of Disneyland." The aircraft will make its inaugural flight from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to John Wayne-Orange County Airport on Monday, December 16. This is the first time a major U.S. airline has worked with Walt Disney Parks & Resorts to paint an aircraft with Disney theme park characters. WHO: To appropriately inaugurate the "Spirit of Disneyland," Erik Lindbergh, Seattle resident and grandson of famed "Spirit of St. Louis" aviator Charles Lindbergh, is joining representatives from both companies and Disney characters in Alaska Airlines' Seattle hangar for ribbon cutting ceremonies. WHERE: Interested members of the media should meet at the Alaska Airlines Corporate Headquarters, located at 19300 Pacific Highway South, Seattle. Media will sign in and receive credentials in the front lobby. A van will transport media to the hangar for the event and then return later to Alaska's headquarters. WHEN: Please arrive no later than 9:30 a.m. on Monday, December 16. The ceremony will begin shortly thereafter.