Alaska Airlines completes multi-billion dollar acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines as carriers join forces

Alaska Airlines completes multi-billion dollar acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines as carriers join forces
By Zach Havard


Hawaiian Airlines has officially joined Alaska Airlines in a landmark partnership that is set to reshape not only US aviation, but also the international market.

The collaboration will see both airlines retain their distinct brands while combining efforts to enhance passenger experience and broaden their reach. While operations remain separate for the time being, significant changes are on the horizon over the next 18 months.

A key milestone in this partnership involves Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines working to secure a single operating certificate with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Once obtained, this will allow the two airlines to operate as a unified carrier with a fully integrated passenger service system.

Alaska Airlines. (Supplied)

“This is a historic day for Alaska Airlines as we officially join with Hawaiian Airlines,” Alaska Air Group CEO Ben Minicucci said.

“Alaska and Hawaiian share tremendous pride in connecting communities with award-winning service, and we look forward to inviting more guests on board to experience what makes both brands unique.”

For now, both airlines will maintain their existing reservation systems, websites, and loyalty programs, ensuring no disruption for passengers.

Travellers have much to look forward to as the partnership unlocks expanded destination options. Guests will soon be able to access 141 destinations directly, including 29 international markets and have access to over 1,200 global destinations through the Oneworld Alliance and other global partners.

Hawaiian Airlines. (Supplied)

Honolulu is set to become the second-largest hub for Alaska Airlines, following Seattle, reflecting the growing importance of Hawaiian routes in the airline’s network.

An exciting perk for loyalty members comes in the way of the ability to transfer miles between HawaiianMiles and Alaska Airlines’ Mileage Plan accounts free of charge.

Travellers will also soon have the convenience of booking Hawaiian Airlines flights via AlaskaAir.com and Alaska Airlines flights on HawaiianAirlines.com.

As of today, Alaska Air Group and its subsidiary airlines operate nearly 1,500 daily flights to destinations across the Americas, Asia, Australia, and the South Pacific, feeding into their Oneworld Alliance network. Their combined fleet includes a total of 350 aircraft, ranging from Boeing 787s to Airbus A330s and Embraer jets, while employing more than 33,000 staff across North America, Asia, and the Pacific.

This partnership represents a monumental step forward for both airlines, as they leverage their strengths to offer more seamless travel experiences for their customers.

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