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Hawaiian Airlines

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Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines Reviews & Ratings: Is It the Right Airline for You?

If you are flying to Hawaii, Hawaiian Airlines remains the most authentic way to start your vacation before you even land. However, the airline is operating in a vastly new era.

Following the historic finalization of its acquisition by Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines is now part of a massive, unified network. Crucially, the beloved Hawaiian brand, its unique Island hospitality, and its aircraft have been preserved. Alongside this merger, 2026 brings two massive upgrades to the passenger experience: the widespread availability of free, ultra-fast Starlink Wi-Fi and the continued rollout of their stunning new Boeing 787 Dreamliners.

Hawaiian Airlines at a Glance

  • Parent Company: Alaska Air Group (Merger finalized recently)
  • Frequent Flyer Program: HawaiianMiles (Currently integrating with Alaska Mileage Plan and Oneworld)
  • Main Hub: Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), Honolulu
  • Best For: Direct flights to Hawaii from the US Mainland, Asia, and the South Pacific, and inter-island hopping.
Hawaiian Airlines

In-Flight Experience: What to Expect Onboard

From the boarding music to the uniforms, Hawaiian Airlines immerses you in the “Aloha Spirit” immediately.

Main Cabin (Economy)

Unlike standard US domestic carriers, Hawaiian Airlines still serves a complimentary hot meal or warm sandwich on its transpacific flights between Hawaii and the mainland US, alongside free island-inspired beverages (like POG juice).

  • The 2026 Starlink Upgrade: Hawaiian Airlines has successfully rolled out SpaceX’s Starlink Wi-Fi across its A330, A321neo, and B787 fleets. It is incredibly fast and completely free for all passengers from gate to gate.

First Class (The Leihōkū Suite)

On older A330s, First Class features a 2-2-2 lie-flat configuration. However, if you fly on the new Boeing 787 Dreamliner, you will experience the Leihōkū (Garland of Stars) Suite. These are spectacular 1-2-1 lie-flat suites with privacy doors, starlight cabin ceilings, and premium island dining.

Hawaiian Airlines Baggage Allowance & Policies

Hawaiian Airlines charges for checked baggage on domestic flights, but international flights (like to Japan or Australia) include free bags.

Route Type Carry-On Allowance Checked Baggage Inclusion
Inter-Island / US Mainland 1 personal item + 1 carry-on None (Fee: $30 – $40 for 1st bag)
International (Asia/Oceania) 1 personal item + 1 carry-on 2 pieces (Up to 50 lbs/23kg each)
First Class 1 personal item + 1 carry-on 2 pieces (Up to 50 lbs/23kg each)

Elite & Credit Card Tip: If you hold a Hawaiian Airlines or Alaska Airlines co-branded credit card, or have elite status within their newly merged loyalty network, you receive your first checked bags free on domestic flights.

Customer Service & Reliability

  • The Highs: Hawaiian Airlines has consistently held the title for the most on-time airline in the United States for nearly two decades. The flight attendants are famous for their warm, relaxed, and genuinely friendly service.
  • The Lows: If you are flying inter-island on their older Boeing 717s, the planes are showing their age, and there is no Wi-Fi or power outlets for those short 30-minute hops.

Pros & Cons of Flying with Hawaiian Airlines

Pros:

  • Free, ultra-fast Starlink Wi-Fi on transpacific flights.
  • Complimentary meals in Economy (rare for US carriers).
  • The new Boeing 787 Leihōkū Suites are world-class.
  • Exceptional on-time performance and authentic Aloha service.

Cons:

  • Domestic checked baggage fees apply.
  • Older A330 First Class lacks privacy (2-2-2 layout).
  • The transition period of the Alaska Airlines merger can cause minor confusion with frequent flyer miles.

Have You Flown with Hawaiian Airlines?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Hawaiian Airlines

Did Alaska Airlines buy Hawaiian Airlines?

Yes. The acquisition was approved and finalized. However, both airlines are keeping their distinct consumer brands. You will still fly on a Hawaiian Airlines plane with Hawaiian staff, but you can now seamlessly connect with Alaska Airlines flights and earn/redeem miles across both networks (and the Oneworld alliance).

Does Hawaiian Airlines have free Wi-Fi?

Yes! As of 2026, Hawaiian Airlines offers completely free, high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi on all flights operated by its Airbus A330, A321neo, and Boeing 787 aircraft. (Note: Inter-island Boeing 717 flights do not have Wi-Fi).

Do you get free food on Hawaiian Airlines?

Even on standard Economy tickets from the US Mainland to Hawaii, you receive a complimentary hot island-inspired meal or sandwich, along with free soft drinks and juices.

Disclaimer: All information, policies, and details presented on this page are gathered from publicly available resources and are subject to change. Please verify directly with the airline before booking.