Alaska Air Group posts profit in first quarter

Cheaper fuel helped Alaska Air Group (ALK) post a first quarter profit of $149 million, or $1.12 per share, counting special items, during the first three months of the year.

That was a significant increase over the $94 million profit, or 68 cents per share, the airline brought in during the first quarter of 2014.

"Our record first quarter results reflect lower fuel prices, but more importantly the tremendous loyalty of our customers in Seattle and across our system" the airline's CEO Brad Tilden, said in a statement. "It is gratifying to see such strong growth and financial results given unprecedented competition.''

Shares were down .95% to $64.31 when markets closed Wednesday.