Video: Raw: Copper River Salmon get red-carpet treatment

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SEATTLE - The first flight of Copper River salmon to land at Sea-Tac Airport was a little light.

Officials rolled out a red carpet for the ceremonial first fish, which was walked off the plane and onto the tarmac.

An Alaska Airlines spokeswoman, Pam Miller, says the first 737 freighter Friday carried only 7,500 pounds of fish. About 36,000 pounds were expected, but fishing weather was bad in Alaska.

Miller says the shipments will catch up through the summer season.

The arrival of the first Copper River king salmon, known for its flavor, is eagerly awaited by restaurants, markets and seafood lovers.

The exact price will vary. Stores and markets who talked with KING 5 are selling it from between $28 and $50 per pound.

At the Whole Foods on Westlake Avenue in Seattle, the seafood manager said Copper River sockeye will go for $27.99. Last year it went for $25.99.