Alaska Airlines from St. Louis to Dulles International Airport

Developing an understanding of your travel prospects from St. Louis to Dulles International Airport, via Alaska, triggers a cascade of questions rooted in the key factors derived from the 5 W's of journalistic writing. Let's clarify your queries, by analyzing what you might expect on this journey.

Firstly, determining what mode of flight would best suit your needs is of utmost importance. Direct flights form the preference for many frequent flyers, offering a time-preserving mode of travel, seamlessly going from origin to destination. Alaska, however, generally offers connecting flights on this route, a compromise on speed, but often more economically balanced. The conscious traveler might opt for one-way journeys, while the systematic commuter is more inclined towards round-trip bookings.

The architecture of your trip is acutely impacted by these choices. The flight duration typically rests between 6 to 8 hours for direct flights but can span up to 12 hours on connecting flights from St. Louis to Dulles International Airport. Therefore, your journey could potentially be a red-eye flight depending on your flight schedule.

A noteworthy aspect while preparing for your travel is 'when to book'. Research hosted in scientific circles reports that securing your airfare 70 days prior to departure churns out the most affordable rates. Unplanned trips, however, can still garner cheap flights or last-minute flight deals on this route if one performs due diligence in hunting them down. The 'Who' here is essential, as the class you travel in; economy class, business class, premium economy or first-class, significantly adjusts your airfare.

The ‘where’ gets interesting, as your flight's midpoint is Alaska, an enthralling state harboring awe-inspiring landscapes and a peculiar fact - it’s technically the easternmost, westernmost and the northernmost state of the U.S., due to the Aleutian Islands stretching across the 180º line of Longitude.

Frequent flyer programs stand out as a prominent 'why' for choosing Alaska. Their Mileage Program has been lauded in airline reviews for its generous rewards. If capitalized effectively, your travels could offer subsequent financial relief on airfare, thus answering, the 'why Alaska?' question.

The 'how' in the equation is predominantly your prerogative. The considered booking of the outbound and return flights can help sync with your itinerary. Another crucial point lies in understanding their baggage allowance policy for your designated class. The non-stop fluctuations in policies necessitate an updated review before embarking on your trip.

Although a trip from St. Louis to Dulles International Airport is a domestic flight, the services offered by Alaska encompass features characteristic of international flights. Their in-flight services include a medley of entertainment options and a menu developed by noted chefs. Such details often elevate the travel experiences, enhancing the gratification derived from your journey.

Finally, it’s essential to consider the flight cancellation policy, providing a safety net for any unforeseen circumstances leading to trip cancellation or delay. Alaska's policies have consistently been customer-centric, offering flexibility and various compensations depending on the scenario.

In summary, flying from St. Louis to Dulles International Airport, via Alaska, demands an understanding of various aspects — the type of flight, time of booking, choice of class, benefit programs, and policies. A proficient assimilation of these facets equips you with the tools for a well-curated, cost-effective, and thoroughly enjoyable journey. As the landscape beneath shifts from the bustling activity of St. Louis to the serene wilderness of Alaska, and finally to the historic grandeur of Dulles, the flight becomes less about the destination and more about the journey itself. And less about getting there and more about the art of travel.