Alaska Airlines’ Safety Dance Video Highlights COVID-19 Safety

Alaska Airlines has released a captivating video centered around COVID-19 safety, showcasing its own employees as the stars of this entertaining production.

The video is a creative parody of the 1982 song, Safety Dance, by Men Without Hats. Notably, it was directed by Warren Fu, recognized for collaborating with top artists including Dua Lipa, The Weeknd, Daft Punk, and HAIM. Additionally, the choreography was crafted by Anna Matuszewski, known for her work with Macklemore. Filming occurred over two days at the airline’s Boeing cabin trainer and the Alaska Maintenance Hangar in Seattle.

“From the director to the choreography, the cameras, the music, makeup and hair artists, it felt like being on the set of a movie,” shares Natalie, a Horizon Air flight attendant in Seattle. “Every day was filled with excitement and anticipation. It was very professional, well organized, and definitely one of the top experiences in my life.”

The central theme of the video emphasizes that, with strict safety protocols in action—including mandatory masks, enhanced cleaning between flights, HEPA air filtration, and touch-free technology—the airline firmly believes it’s safe to fly. Employees were selected for their roles through various methods, receiving choreography videos in advance to practice at home. On the day before filming, they conducted a full eight-hour dress rehearsal, perfecting their moves with the choreographer.

“It was refreshing to work on a project that provided some much-needed levity after such a challenging year,” shares Warren Fu. “You can highlight the importance of safety and still have fun with it. I truly hope the uplifting energy and enthusiasm showcased by our Alaska Airlines employee talent brings smiles to people’s faces.”

A behind-the-scenes look at the making of the Alaska Airlines ‘Safety Dance’ music video is available on its blog here.