SEATTLE, July 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Alaska Airlines is introducing technology that gives customers the option to use credit and debit cards instead of cash for onboard purchases.     The airline introduced point-of-sale devices this month on 22 daily transcontinental flights. The hand-held units allow flight attendants to process credit and debit card payments when customers buy food and beverages and rent personal entertainment players.     Alaska will phase in the credit and debit payment option on more flights this fall and ultimately plans to offer the service on all flights.     "This is another way we're using technology to make the travel experience more convenient for our customers," said Steve Jarvis, Alaska Airlines' vice president of sales and customer experience. "We live in an increasingly cashless society, and we're pleased to bring the same pay-with-credit option to our flights that customers have come to enjoy at grocery stores, restaurants and most other retail locations."     A year-long field test of the devices found that customers enjoyed the convenience of credit and debit card purchases and flight attendants more easily tracked onboard payments.     Alaska offers complimentary non-alcoholic beverages and snacks in the main cabin. In addition, customers on most flights have the option to purchase beer, wine and Red Bull energy drinks. On most flights longer than three hours, customers also can purchase freshly prepared Northern Bites meals and picnic packs, and rent digEplayer personal entertainment systems.     The point-of-sale hand-held device and its software application are provided by GuestLogix, Inc., based in Toronto. GuestLogix provides the passenger-travel industry with comprehensive end-to-end solutions for onboard retail.     Alaska Airlines and its sister carrier, Horizon Air, serve 92 cities through an expansive network in Alaska, the Lower 48, Canada and Mexico. This year Alaska Airlines celebrates its 75th anniversary, marking the airline's growth from a single-aircraft operation in 1932 to one of the largest U.S. carriers. For reservations, visit http://alaskaair.com. For more news and information, visit the Alaska Airlines/Horizon Air Newsroom at http://alaskaair.com/newsroom.