Alaska Airlines has named Athena bottled water, a product whose profits directly benefit women’s cancer research, the airline’s official bottled water.

As part of a new contract with Athena Partners, Alaska will serve Athena bottled water onboard its flights and in its airport Board Room lounges through October 2006.

Alaska’s partnership with Athena began in October 2005, when the airline served Athena bottled water to support women’s cancer initiatives during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The airline awarded the long-term contract to Athena following the companies’ promotional partnership and as the result of a competitive bidding process.

“Serving a bottled water that also supports cancer research is an idea both our employees and customers have embraced,” said Gregg Saretsky, Alaska’s executive vice president of marketing and planning. “We are thrilled to continue serving Athena bottled water here at Alaska Airlines.”

Founded more than two years ago, Athena has sold 6 million bottles of water and donated more than $100,000 to Seattle-based institutions that are world-renowned for cancer research.

Organizations receiving funding include the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Virginia Mason Medical Center, University of Washington Medicine and the Marsha Rivkin Center for Ovarian Cancer Research.

“We are very pleased to partner with Alaska Airlines, a company genuinely committed to supporting the cause and helping to raise awareness and funds for women’s cancer research,” said Trish May, founder and CEO of Athena Partners. “Alaska’s support will bring us one step closer to finding a cure.”

Athena water is also available at retailers and cafes throughout the Northwest, including Bartell Drugs, Costco Business Centers, Larry’s Markets, Safeway and QFC. 
——-