Hawaiian Airlines, Hawaii’s largest and longest-serving airline, connects the islands with destinations across North America, Asia, and Oceania. Known for infusing Hawaiian hospitality with modern comforts, the airline provides a unique experience for travelers. In this guide, we’ll explore Hawaiian Airlines’ routes, flight experience, loyalty rewards, and travel tips.
Hawaiian Airlines Overview
Founded in 1929, Hawaiian Airlines has become a flagship airline for Hawaii, servicing inter-island, international, and mainland flights. Headquartered in Honolulu, Hawaiian Airlines provides a professional yet welcoming experience. The fleet includes Boeing 717s for inter-island routes and Airbus A330 and A321neo aircraft for longer trips.
Destinations Served by Hawaiian Airlines
Hawaiian Airlines’ network connects Hawaii with the U.S. mainland, Asia, and Oceania, along with various inter-island flights. The airline provides an ideal option for travelers flying from the U.S. or Asia to Hawaii.
Domestic U.S. Destinations
Hawaiian Airlines offers flights from Hawaii to major U.S. cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Las Vegas, and New York City. Direct flights make traveling between the mainland and the Hawaiian islands convenient and fast.
International Destinations
Hawaiian Airlines serves international locations across the Pacific, including:
- Japan: Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka
- South Korea: Seoul
- Australia: Sydney and Brisbane
- New Zealand: Auckland
- Tahiti: Papeete
Hawaiian Airlines’ international network allows travelers from Asia-Pacific to reach Hawaii with ease.
Inter-Island Travel
For quick travel between islands, Hawaiian Airlines operates frequent inter-island flights. These flights, using Boeing 717s, connect Honolulu (Oahu), Kahului (Maui), Kona and Hilo (Big Island), and Lihue (Kauai). Hawaiian Airlines’ inter-island service is ideal for exploring multiple islands on a single trip.
In-Flight Experience on Hawaiian Airlines
Hawaiian Airlines is known for its unique in-flight experience that reflects Hawaiian culture. The airline’s meals, decor, and service all work together to create a distinctly Hawaiian atmosphere.
Amenities and Entertainment
Hawaiian Airlines does not yet offer in-flight WiFi, though it plans to add this feature soon. However, passengers on Airbus A330 and A321neo aircraft can enjoy in-flight entertainment via seatback screens. Available options include movies, TV shows, and games.
Food and Beverage Service
Food on Hawaiian Airlines is a standout feature, with meals inspired by Hawaiian cuisine. A unique treat for passengers is Hawaiian Airlines’ famous P.O.G. juice (Passionfruit, Orange, and Guava), which has become a favorite drink option. All passengers on long-haul flights receive complimentary meals, while First Class passengers enjoy an expanded dining experience.
HawaiianMiles: Loyalty Program for Hawaiian Airlines
For frequent flyers, Hawaiian Airlines offers a rewarding loyalty program called HawaiianMiles, where miles are earned based on distance flown.
Value of HawaiianMiles
One common question travelers have is, “What is 70,000 Hawaiian Airlines miles worth in dollars?” Generally, HawaiianMiles are worth around 1 cent per mile, so 70,000 miles would be worth approximately $700. However, the value can vary depending on factors like route and timing.
HawaiianMiles Benefits
A unique advantage of HawaiianMiles is that they don’t expire. This flexibility makes it easy for travelers to save up miles for future trips. Hawaiian Airlines also offers a co-branded credit card—the Hawaiian Airlines World Elite Mastercard. Cardholders earn bonus miles on everyday purchases and receive perks like priority boarding and discounted award travel.
Redeeming HawaiianMiles with Partner Airlines
Hawaiian Airlines is not part of any major alliance but has partnerships with airlines such as JetBlue, Japan Airlines, and Virgin Australia. This allows HawaiianMiles members to earn and redeem miles on flights operated by these airlines.
Hawaiian Airlines Terminals and Major Hubs
Hawaiian Airlines operates from specific terminals at its hub and other major airports across the U.S. mainland. For up-to-date terminal information and security guidelines at major airports where Hawaiian Airlines operates, travelers can refer to the Transportation Security Administration’s Terminal Guide.
Terminal Information for Hawaiian Airlines
- LAX: Hawaiian Airlines usually operates out of Terminal B (Tom Bradley International Terminal).
- SFO: Terminal 1
- HNL: Terminal 1 at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, Honolulu’s main airport
- LAS: Terminal 3 at McCarran International Airport
Knowing the correct terminal helps travelers navigate major airports more smoothly.
Hawaiian Airlines Customer Service and Safety Ratings
Hawaiian Airlines consistently ranks as one of the most punctual U.S. airlines, with a strong reputation for friendly service (Federal Aviation Administration). This reliability, combined with Hawaiian Airlines’ focus on hospitality, makes it a top choice for many travelers. Hawaiian Airlines is widely praised for its dependable service, friendly crew, and unique Hawaiian ambiance.
Safety Standards
Hawaiian Airlines also has an excellent safety record, adhering to strict maintenance and safety standards. With no major incidents in recent history, Hawaiian Airlines is regarded as one of the safest airlines to fly with to Hawaii.
FAQs: Common Questions About Hawaiian Airlines
Does Hawaiian Airlines offer WiFi? Currently, Hawaiian Airlines does not provide WiFi on flights. However, plans are underway to add this feature, especially for long-haul routes.
What Airlines Fly to Hawaii? Other than Hawaiian Airlines, major U.S. carriers like Delta, United, American, and Southwest fly to Hawaii, offering travelers multiple options.
Does Southwest Airlines Fly to Hawaii? Yes, Southwest Airlines operates flights from the mainland to Hawaii, known for affordable fares and flexible policies.
Does Hawaiian Airlines Serve Food? Yes, Hawaiian Airlines offers complimentary meals on all long-haul flights. Passengers in First Class receive premium meal options.
Where is the P.O.G. Juice from on Hawaiian Airlines? Hawaiian Airlines serves P.O.G. juice (a blend of passionfruit, orange, and guava), sourced locally in Hawaii. This drink has become a signature refreshment for the airline.
Does Hawaiian Airlines Have a First Class Lounge? Hawaiian Airlines provides lounge access for First Class passengers, with Premier Club lounges available at Honolulu International Airport (HNL) and select other locations.
What Terminal is Hawaiian Airlines at LAX? Hawaiian Airlines operates from Terminal B at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
Who Owns Hawaiian Airlines? Hawaiian Airlines is owned by Hawaiian Holdings, Inc., based in Honolulu. Despite industry mergers, Hawaiian Airlines remains independent, maintaining its identity and unique Hawaiian approach to air travel.
Is Hawaiian Airlines Part of an Alliance? Hawaiian Airlines is not a member of a major airline alliance but has bilateral partnerships with Japan Airlines, JetBlue, and Korean Air. These partnerships allow passengers to earn and redeem miles with select partner airlines.
Travel Tips for Flying with Hawaiian Airlines
Booking Hawaiian Airlines tickets in advance is the best way to secure low fares, particularly during peak travel periods. The airline often offers seasonal promotions on flights between the mainland U.S. and Hawaii, making it an ideal time to plan your trip. Travelers can also check the Hawaii Tourism Authority for helpful travel tips and cultural insights before their trip.
Travelers can also maximize their HawaiianMiles by signing up for the Hawaiian Airlines World Elite Mastercard. This card provides extra miles on everyday purchases and exclusive travel perks like priority boarding. For those who wish to experience Hawaiian culture before arriving, Hawaiian Airlines’ meals, complimentary P.O.G. juice, and friendly service create an immersive travel experience.
The baggage policy on Hawaiian Airlines is also favorable, with the first checked bag free for HawaiianMiles members. First Class passengers enjoy added allowances, and the generous policy allows travelers to bring along the essentials without incurring high fees.
Conclusion
Hawaiian Airlines offers more than just transportation—it delivers a travel experience filled with the culture and spirit of Hawaii. From onboard meals and complimentary drinks to the warm hospitality of the crew, Hawaiian Airlines allows passengers to begin their Hawaiian journey as soon as they step on board. With an extensive route network, strong safety standards, and a reputation for customer service, Hawaiian Airlines is a leading choice for flights to and from Hawaii.
Whether you’re planning a Hawaiian getaway or looking to hop between islands, Hawaiian Airlines ensures a memorable, authentic experience for every traveler.