as a former employee, yes Alaska does only hire non-smokers, but as far as I know, once you get the job you are free to return to smoking (except for FA's and CSA's I believe). I have come to appreciate the rule while flying with them and not being taken aback by the odor coming from the flight attendants on a single aisle plane.

Very true, Zurbec, very true. If only we lived in a more perfect world. At least the non-smoking policy is a start. I believe AS should start issuing Mini's as their company cars. It would be quite the novelty and earn them a lot of media attention too!

The fewer smoke breaks and healthier air provides for a lot more productivity. I wish more companies would do the same. Cheers