Alaska Airlines to buy Hawaiian Airlines for $1.9billion......

Alaska Air Group and Hawaiian Holdings have confirmed that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Alaska Airlines will acquire Hawaiian Airlines for $18.00 per share in cash, for a transaction value of approximately $1.9 billion, inclusive of $0.9 billion of Hawaiian Airlines net debt. 

The transaction is expected to enable a stronger platform for growth and competition in the U.S., as well as long-term job opportunities for employees, continued investment in local communities and environmental stewardship.

Alaska's publicity team hype it as a natural alliance of the big airlines of the 49th and 50th U.S. states, which are uniquely reliant upon air travel. The buyout will build on the 90+ year legacies and cultures of these two service-oriented airlines, preserve both beloved brands on a single operating platform, and protect and grow union-represented jobs and economic development.

Ben Minicucci, Alaska Airlines CEO said: “This combination is an exciting next step in our collective journey to provide a better travel experience for our guests and expand options for West Coast and Hawai‘i travellers. 

Our two airlines are powered by incredible employees, with 90+ year legacies and values grounded in caring for the special places and people that we serve. I am grateful to the more than 23,000 Alaska Airlines employees who are proud to have served Hawai‘i for over 16 years, and we are fully committed to investing in the communities of Hawai‘i and maintaining the robust Neighbor Island service that Hawaiian Airlines travellers have come to expect. We look forward to deepening this stewardship as our airlines come together while providing unmatched value to customers, employees, communities and owners.”

 Hawaiian Airlines President and CEO. “In Alaska Airlines, we are joining an airline that has long served Hawai‘i and has a complementary network and a shared culture of service. With the additional scale and resources that this transaction with Alaska Airlines brings, we will be able to accelerate investments in our guest experience and technology, while maintaining the Hawaiian Airlines brand."

However, sources close to the deal have used various forums to slam the deal and the proposed benefits of the take-over that Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines have published.  According to some,  the Hawaiian brand will be axed within five years of the deal being finalised and is scheduled to be completely retired by the end of 2029. Staff numbers will be reduced, according to an Alaska Air staff member,  by around 3500, however, it is not known if these positions will be lost through natural wastage or from which airline they will be from. 

Initially, the carriers will retain their brand identity, however, will integrate into a single operating platform and uniformity of service will be introduced. The joint company will continue to offer the same fare points or cabins as currently in operation until the low-cost model can be introduced later on most routes.

The transaction will connect Hawaiian Airlines’ loyalty members with enhanced benefits through an industry-leading loyalty program for the combined airline, including the ability to earn and redeem miles on 29 global partners and receive elite benefits on the full complement of oneworld Alliance airlines, expanded global lounge access and benefits of the combined program’s co-brand credit card.

The airlines say there will be a growth in union-represented jobs as Alaska claims it will maintain and grow union-represented jobs in Hawai‘i, including preserving pilot, flight attendant, and maintenance bases in Honolulu and airport operations and cargo throughout the state. Yet there is no promise on non-union jobs or assurances on wage levels. 

Alaska Air also says it will maintain a 'management' presence on the islands with the 'regional' manager being based in Honolulu, however, most other functions will be at Alaska's current HQ. Apparently, there will be more opportunities for employees with greater geographic mobility for employees and a uniformity of benefits. Hawaiian Airlines' partnership with the Honolulu Community College Aeronautics Maintenance Technology Program and Alaska Airlines' Ascend Pilot Academy among others will continue for the foreseeable future, according to Alaska Air. 

It is understood that Alaska will retire all of Hawaiian Airlines Airbus A321 as soon as possible, replacing them with Boeing 737 MAX jets whilst the A330 fleet (except cargo) will be replaced with an exercising of options on Hawaiian's current 787 order. Yet no confirmation has yet been received of the fleet consolidation. 

The transaction agreement has been approved by both boards. The acquisition is conditioned on required regulatory approvals, approval by Hawaiian Holdings, Inc. shareholders (which is expected to be sought in the first quarter of 2024)

Hawaiian Holdings Reports 2023 Third Quarter Financial Results

Hawaiian Holdings Reports 2023 Third Quarter Financial Results

 Delivering for the Future With Launch of Freighter Service and Dreamliner Ticket Sales

Hawaiian Holdings, the parent company of Hawaiian Airlines, Inc. this week reported its financial results for the third quarter of 2023.

"I am immensely proud of our team's continued focus on moving our company forward, particularly in a quarter affected by the tragic wildfires in Maui," said Hawaiian Airlines President and CEO Peter Ingram. "Underlying demand remains resilient, our brand and business model are core strengths and the major investments we are making now will create substantial value in 2024 and beyond."

The Company reported that third-quarter revenue was trending positively in July, but the devastating wildfires in Lahaina in West Maui on August 8, 2023 caused a sharp decrease in traffic to Maui. With most areas of the island unaffected by the fires and portions of West Maui reopening to tourism on October 8, 2023, demand for travel to Maui is recovering but remains below historical levels. Hawaiian's third quarter schedule was negatively impacted by the July 25, 2023 announcement from RTX, the parent company of Pratt & Whitney, of anticipated accelerated removals and inspections of a significant portion of the PW1100G-JM engine fleet, which powers Hawaiian's A321neo aircraft. This unanticipated time out of service resulted in, among other things, lower-than-expected capacity growth in the quarter.

Operating revenue was down 1.8% from the third quarter of 2022 on 4.1% higher capacity across Hawaiian's network. Passenger traffic remained strong on Hawaiian's Japan routes in the third quarter of 2023. International revenue increased 90.9% from the third quarter of 2022 on a 43.6% increase in capacity.

Maui Wildfires Relief

Hawaiian Airlines to introduce new amenity kits and soft goods by Hawai‘i lifestyle brand Noho Home

                            Hawaiian Airlines has tapped Hawaiʻi lifestyle brand Noho Home by Jalene Kanani Bell to design its new in-flight amenity kits and soft goods with a focus on sustainability and rooted in aloha.

“Noho” means “to be, to dwell, or to come from” in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language). The Noho Home designs, inspired by the airline’s newest Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner premium cabin, the Leihōkū Suites, are represented through three motifs (Kilo Hōkū, Lele and ʻŌlali) to bring a sense of place and comfort to kamaʻāina and visitors alike as they embark on their journey – an approach that pairs perfectly with Hawaiian’s service philosophy, Mea Hoʻokipa (I am your host).

Beginning Nov. 6, Business Class guests travelling on Hawaiian’s long-haul international flights and between Hawai‘i and New York, Boston and Austin will be offered amenities made with responsibly sourced materials. Guests will receive a recycled plastic canvas bag containing essential items and will be offered an assortment of additional amenities a la carte to minimize waste.

Business Class seats will also feature a plush quilt adorned with the new signature Kilo Hōkū and ʻŌlali designs, as well as a mattress pad and sleeping pillow. The quilt and mattress pad use a fabric made from recycled plastic.

Guests seated in Extra Comfort and Main Cabin will receive new amenity kits featuring the Lele design.

“Our collaboration with Noho Home was born out of the shared desire to create a sense of place and establish a connection to home while we bring our guests to their destination,” said Alisa Onishi, senior director of brand and community and cultural relations at Hawaiian Airlines. “We are very proud of the creativity behind these designs and can’t wait for our guests to receive them.”

Inspiration for the three designs came from the native Hawaiian practice of kilo, or careful and constant observation, and tells a story of exploration through patterns, colors, designs and textures.

Kilo Hōkū, or stargazer, is a design inspired by breathtaking timelapse photography of the night sky. Weaving a wreath of stars, or Leihōkū, the design is a captivating visual representation of the eternal nature of the cosmos, a testament to the timeless dance of stars and planets that have guided voyagers throughout history.

Lele means to “fly or leap” and celebrates the marvel of flight and the spirit of adventure, while ʻŌlali means to “glide smoothly” like a bird in the air or dolphin in the ocean.

Jalene Kanani Bell founded Noho Home in 2018 with the aim of reimagining Hawaiian décor, and she specializes in a modern Hawaiian aesthetic that blends art and function.

“I am humbled, honoured, and excited to draw inspiration from and bring attention to the art of celestial wayfinding and how indigenous knowledge informs innovation with the Leihōkū collection," said Bell. "From the streamlined curves of humpback whales, which allow them to increase lift while reducing drag as they glide through the ocean or the aerodynamic shape of bird’s wings as they fly through a rainstorm. It is our hope that these products spark meaningful conversations and foster connections to our island home, rooted in the spirit of aloha.”

Hawaiian Airlines and Noho Home will also be extending their partnership with a retail collection of home goods. The Hawaiian Airlines x Noho Home Leihōkū Collection launches Nov. 6 and will be available for purchase onboard select Hawaiian Airlines flights or directly through Noho Home.

Hawaiian Airlines’ Holoholo Challenge raises funds for Kauaʻi’s Historic McBryde Garden

Hawaiian Airlines is bringing its Holoholo Challenge virtual race series to Kauaʻi with proceeds benefiting conservation on the Garden Isle as well as wildfire recovery in West Maui. The 2023 fitness experience will run Nov. 1-30 and raise money for the National Tropical Botanical Garden’s McBryde Garden, a 259-acre conservation and research area in South Kauaʻi that is home to the world’s largest collection of native Hawaiian flora. Hawaiian will also match contributions by participants to further support the Hawaiʻi Community Foundation’s Maui Strong Fund. 

“The Holoholo Challenge has been a great way for folks to get outdoors, wherever you live, while also supporting nonprofits protecting all that makes Hawaiʻi special,” said Debbie Nakanelua-Richards, director of community and cultural relations at Hawaiian Airlines. “We invite everyone to join our holoholo (outing) and help us raise funds to support the extraordinary work of these organizations.”

This year’s participants can choose between two Kaua‘i routes: a 50-mile roundtrip run/walk between Hanalei Bay and Wailua, or a 125-mile roundtrip run/walk/relay between Kīlauea Lighthouse and Waimea Canyon. Athletes can engage with the race community on the Holoholo Challenge Facebook Group, challenge or team up with friends, rack up miles while listening to island-inspired Spotify playlists and learn about Kauaʻi via the Holoholo Challenge website.

At the end of the 30-day event, participants will receive a commemorative gift box with a sticker, a collectible race medal and one apparel item of their choice, including an athletic t-shirt, hat or hoodie.

“Holoholo has grown beyond anything we could have ever imagined. What began as an idea to foster connection during the pandemic has flourished into a celebration of wellness and aloha, and we mahalo all participants who have joined our Holoholo community over the years,” said Robert Sorensen, vice president of marketing and e-commerce at Hawaiian Airlines.

Hawaiian Airlines launched the Holoholo Challenge in 2020 to encourage wellness and connection amid heightened isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic. The race debuted with two Oʻahu courses and has spanned the state with four walk/run/bike/swim/relay routes on Maui in 2021 and two walk/run/relay routes on the Island of Hawaiʻi in 2022. Since its inception, the Holoholo Challenge has welcomed 27,100 participants and raised $152,960 for local nonprofits Friends of Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge, The Maui Farm and Special Olympics Hawaiʻi.

Hawaiian Airlines Begins Ticket Sales for Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner

Travellers from the Bay Area and Los Angeles planning a Hawaiʻi vacation can be the first to experience the elegant, island-inspired design and comfort of Hawaiian Airlines new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft starting next spring. Hawaiʻi's hometown carrier today began ticket sales for its 787 aircraft, which will initially enter service between Hawaiʻi and San Francisco (SFO) and Los Angeles (LAX).

Hawaiian's new flagship aircraft will debut April 15 with daily service between Honolulu (HNL) and San Francisco through May 14 , followed by select flights between Honolulu and Los Angeles starting May 14 , and Maui (OGG) and Los Angeles from May 15 . Tickets are available at www.hawaiianairlines.com .

Guests boarding Hawaiian's 787 will be immersed in a cabin that evokes Hawaiʻi's beauty through bold textures, soothing sunrise and sunset lighting, and sinuous ocean and wind patterns. The 300-seat aircraft features Hawaiian's newest premium product, Leihōkū Suites (garland of stars): 34 suites that envelop guests in a tranquil space with lie-flat seating, an 18-inch in-flight entertainment screen, personal power outlets, wireless cell phone charging and direct aisle access. Set in a 1-2-1 configuration with doors, the suites offer privacy or a shared experience with combinable double suites allowing couples to fall asleep while gazing at a starlit ceiling inspired by constellations that guided early Polynesian voyagers.

"Our 787's uniquely Hawaiian design and comfort, paired with the award-winning hospitality of our crew, will create an unparalleled experience for our guests on their travel to the islands," said Avi Mannis, chief marketing officer at Hawaiian Airlines.

In developing its Leihōkū Suites , Hawaiian became the first airline to partner with Adient Aerospace – a joint venture between the Boeing Company and Adient, a world leader in automotive seats. Hawaiian's 787 Main Cabin consists of 266 Collins Aerospace Aspire light-weight seats with ergonomically contoured back and armrests that maximize seat space, offer more shoulder and hip room and feature a 12-inch seatback monitor with USB-A and USB-C charging ports.

Each design element of Hawaiian's 787 celebrates navigators who have sailed the Pacific by observing the stars, sun, winds, waves and wildlife. The airline worked with design consultant Teague to realize Hawaiian's vision of honoring Pacific exploration in a modern aircraft.

Every detail of the interior pays homage to Hawaiʻi's pristine environment, from wall panels depicting native wood grains to the lavatory floor inspired by shimmering black volcanic sand. 'Ōlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language) is integrated into seat row numbers and other placards. Laminates and fabrics reflect the forms of native Hawaiian plants.

The 787 offers enhanced cabin air filtration and its carbon-fiber composite airframe permits travel at a lower cabin altitude, resulting in a more comfortable flight. Guests will also notice a quiet cabin thanks to acoustic-treated engine inlets, as well as extra-large, dimmable windows, spacious overhead bins and lavatory toilets and faucets with touchless activation.

Hawaiian is scheduled to receive the first of 12 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners in January, with additional deliveries planned through 2027.

Hawaiian Airlines’ Mālama Maui Effort Marks Next Phase of Support for the Maui Community

The airline focuses on food access in partnership with Hawaiʻi Foodbank, Maui Food Bank and Hawaiʻi Community Foundation.

As the unprecedented passenger and cargo airlift continues after the devastating wildfires on Maui, Hawaiian Airlines has embarked on a set of new initiatives to assist the community and address immediate needs.

Access to food is an urgent need in parts of West Maui, and Hawaiian is working with Hawaiʻi Foodbank and Maui Food Bank on food collection and distribution. Hawaiian has donated $150,000 ($50,000 each to Hawaiʻi Foodbank, Maui Food Bank and the Maui Strong Fund of the Hawaiʻi Community Foundation ) to further support the organizations’ wildfire relief work.

In addition, under an expanded relationship with Hawaiʻi Foodbank, one of the airline’s longtime community partners, Hawaiian will deploy volunteers to Hawaiʻi Foodbank to sort and package donations being sent to Maui.

“Food access on Maui is an urgent issue and this work will help our nonprofit partners meet the critical need to deliver food and essential supplies to people affected by this devastating event,” said Hawaiian Airlines President and CEO Peter Ingram. “Our 7,000-strong team is committed to this important work to help our Maui ʻohana and neighbours as we continue to assist with the response on Maui.”

“We’re incredibly grateful to Hawaiian Airlines for their support of both our foodbanks,” said Hawai‘i Foodbank President and CEO Amy Miller Marvin. “We are actively working together to support those impacted by the wildfires while also continuing to provide regular food assistance to meet the ongoing needs of our communities.”

In addition, Hawaiian Airlines established the Mālama Maui Desk to respond more efficiently to the many organizations and individuals seeking flight, cargo or volunteer support. The request form can be found at www.hawaiianairlines.com/malamamaui, a new website dedicated to Maui relief information. In addition to the Mālama Maui Desk, the page serves as a resource on ways that our community in Hawaiʻi and globally can help respond to the tragic wildfires.

Airlines transport relief supplies to Maui as wildfires claim 55 lives

The wildfires that have spread across Maui have claimed the lives of at least 55 people, local authorities report and the death toll is likely to increase. Governor Josh Green said the inferno that reduced much of Lahaina to smouldering ruins was the worst natural disaster in the state's history, making thousands of people homeless and levelling as many as 1,000 buildings.  

Thousands of locals and tourists were evacuated from the western side of Maui with some taking shelter elsewhere on the island or on Oahu. Many tourists camped in the Kahului Airport, waiting for flights back home.

Alaska Airlines has operated special rescue flights to Maui filled with relief supplies including water, non-perishable food, pillows, blankets, towels, wipes, baby formula and diapers. The aircraft transported passengers back to Seattle. 

The carrier said it was closely monitoring the devastating impacts of the wildfires on Maui and would even be operating unscheduled flights between Maui and Honolulu to move guests off of Maui and bring critical supplies in. 

Our hearts are with those on Maui, and our employees and their families, during this devastating time,” said Daniel Chun, Alaska’s Director of Sales, Community & Public Relations in Hawaii. “We hope we can help bring much-needed care and relief to those who’ve experienced catastrophic loss throughout the community.” 

The airline issued the following advice for passengers with bookings on flights to Hawai'i.   

Traveling to/from Maui 

We are offering a flexible travel policy if you would like to change or cancel your flight to Maui.  

In accordance with emergency orders from the state of Hawai‘i, we’re discouraging guests from non-essential travel to Maui. The flexible travel policy allows guests with planned travel to Maui to change their flight to another Hawaiian island. Alaska serves Honolulu, O‘ahu; Kona, Hawai‘i; and Līhu‘e, Kaua‘i.  

To help the Maui community, for this emergency, we are allowing guests to cancel their reservations and receive a refund to their original form of payment upon request. As always, you can choose to keep the refund in your Account wallet or receive a credit certificate for future travel, but we are doing everything we can to encourage our guests to rethink their trips to the island right now. 

U.S mega-carrier Delta advised it will contribute $250,000 to the American Red Cross to aid in the disaster response and relief efforts in Maui and other areas of Hawaii coping with the destruction caused by recent wildfires brought on by strong winds as a result of Hurricane Dora, a Category 4 hurricane which passed 300 miles south of the Hawaiian Islands.   Most of the fires on Maui are still burning, forcing thousands of residents and tourists to evacuate. the airline advised, however, the carrier was still selling tickets to Maui for travel tomorrow at fares of £1942.   

Hawaiian Airlines

The boss of local hometown carrier of the islands, Hawaiin Airlines, Peter Ingram said:  “This is an incredibly tragic and sad event, and our hearts go out to everyone impacted on Maui and especially those who have lost loved ones. - Our teams across our operation are working tirelessly to help those affected, including our nearly 500 colleagues who call Maui home. We send our deepest condolences to those impacted by the fires and will continue to leverage every resource we have to support the Maui community."

Here’s how Hawaiian Airlines has supported response efforts in the first 24 hours:

Facilitating essential travel

Ran a full schedule of flights in and out of Maui, including nine additional flights scheduled on both the 9th and 10th of August

Made every main cabin seat from Kahului to Honolulu available at $19 through Aug. 14, so costs would not be an obstacle to those needing to leave.

Issued a travel waiver to allow guests with travel to and from Maui scheduled through Aug. 31 flexibility to change or refund flights.

Cargo

The airline set aside dedicated space on its aircraft to support essential cargo, including life-saving blood and medical supplies, medication, food, water, amenity kits and infrastructure equipment for telecommunications repairs.

Donated and shipped soft goods and catering items, including 300 bottles of Mananalu water, 550 sandwiches, 3,000 snack items, 1,600 amenity kits, mattress pads, lounging pillows and other supplies, for evacuees arriving at Kahului Airport.

Caring for guests and employees

Activated Team Kōkua, Hawaiian’s employee volunteer group, to support guests and staff in Honolulu and Kahului.

Deployed employee members of the Hawaiian Airlines Emergency Assistance Response Team (HEART) to work at the Honolulu Convention Center and other shelter facilities for visitors.

Activated employee support resources for team members on Maui and elsewhere who have been personally affected by these tragic events.

Partnering for relief efforts

Donated seats to first responders, including City and County of Honolulu firefighters to help Maui stations battle the ongoing wildfires.

Nearly 90 million miles (equivalent to 12,000 interisland flights) in joint donation with HawaiianMiles members to the American Red Cross of Hawaii to facilitate travel for volunteers, support personnel and community members in need.

The second quarter performance of Hawaiian Airlines.

This week Hawaiian Holdings, the parent company of Hawaiian Airlines published its financial results for the second quarter of 2023. The carrier witnessed a rapid increase in bookings from people in Japan as well as across the route network. 

Leisure demand remains historically high the carrier reports, its North America load factor was  90.4% - the highest second-quarter load factor since 2017. Neighbour Island services load factor of 75.3% which is the highest for the quarter since 2015. International load factor saw a positive increase and international revenue increased 160.2% from the second quarter of 2022 on a 141.4% increase in capacity

Hawaiian Airlines President and CEO Peter Ingram said: "Demand remains strong throughout our network, and we have recently seen a significant increase in bookings by travellers in Japan, an important geography that has trailed in the recovery of the overall market. Against the backdrop of improving operations and robust demand, I am excited about the major initiatives we're on track to deliver in the second half of the year."

The second quarter also saw the airline complete the transition of A330 aircraft maintenance from an outside company to an internal self-managed maintenance operation, which the carrier hopes will save money, be more effective and allow it to have greater control.

Another development regarding aircraft was the unveiling of Hawaiian's Boeing 787 Dreamliner cabin design and a new business class product, the Leihōkū suites.  These 34 seats feature flat beds, privacy doors and shared double suites and will immerse all guests in cabin design elements that evoke Hawaiʻi's rich natural world through bold textures, island-inspired sunrise and sunset lighting and sinuous ocean and wind patterns. These aircraft are expected to enter service during 2024. 

During the second quarter of 2023, Hawaiian Airlines completed the sale of one ATR-42 aircraft with a loss of approximately $0 .4 million.  During the three months ended June 30, 2022, the airline sold three ATR-72 aircraft and recorded a $2.6 million gain on the sale of aircraft.

In terms of routes,  the key two developments during the quarter were resumed service between Honolulu and Fukuoka, Japan on 28th April with a service running three time a week. And, starting a weekly service to Rarotonga on 20th May, greatly expanding travel opportunities between Hawaiian's 15 gateways on the US Mainland and the Cook Islands.

Look inside the new Hawaiian Airlines Boeing 787 Dreamliner Cabins and new Leihōkū Suites

Hawaiian Airlines introduce new cabins and an elevated level of service on its forthcoming Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet. 

Hawaiian Airlines, the leading airline and hometown carrier of Hawaiʻi’ has just introduced a whole new elevated standard of leisure travel, inspired by early Polynesian voyages, with the unveiling of its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner interior and new class of premium service – the Leihōkū Suites.

Since 1929 Hawaiian Airlines has been the airline of choice for passengers to and from the islands and with the new Boeing 787s which is scheduled to start commercial service with the airline early next year, that reputation continues. 

Passengers will be able to experience a new cabin design with elements that evoke Hawaiʻi’s rich natural world through bold textures, island-inspired sunrise and sunset lighting and sinuous ocean and wind patterns.

The new 300-seat aircraft also will feature the heavenly Leihōkū premier class,  Leihōkū means garland of stars and showcases 34 suites that will envelop guests in a tranquil, elegant space with fully lie-flat seating, an 18-inch in-flight entertainment screen, personal outlets, wireless charging and direct aisle access. Set in a 1-2-1 configuration with doors, the suites can offer privacy or a shared experience, with combined double seats allowing couples to fall asleep while gazing at a starlit ceiling.

“The combination of our evocative cabin design and unparalleled service will make our 787 the most relaxing and enjoyable choice for travel to and from Hawaiʻi,” said Avi Mannis, chief marketing and communications officer at Hawaiian Airlines. “We take pride in sharing our home with our guests, and the design and details of this product truly reflect what it means to be the flagship carrier of the Hawaiian Islands.”

In developing its Leihōkū Suite, Hawaiian became the first airline to partner with Adient Aerospace – a joint venture between the Boeing Company and Adient, a world leader in automotive seats.

“It was evident from the beginning that Hawaiian Airlines is very passionate about its culture and branding, and making sure that this came through in the design language and in the passenger experience,” said Adient Aerospace CEO Tony Guy. “It is so rewarding to bring this vision collaboratively to life and see it realized in the delivered product.”

In Hawaiianʻs 787 Dreamliner Main Cabin, consisting of 266 Collins Aerospace Aspire seats with ergonomically contoured back and armrests, guests will enjoy a lightweight, modern design that maximizes seat space, offers more shoulder and hip room, and features a 12-inch seatback monitor with USB-A and USB-C charging ports.

Hawaiian Airlines 2023 corporate Kuleana report highlights path to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050

Hawaiian Airlines has published its 2023 Corporate Kuleana (Responsibility) report describing the carrier’s progress on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) priorities. In the past year, Hawaiʻi’s hometown airline has advanced its sustainability goals to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050, reduce single-use plastics from cabin service and offer more locally sourced food onboard.

Hawaiian’s decarbonization roadmap includes interim targets to lower GHG emissions and focuses heavily on replacing petroleum jet fuel with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Hawaiian is purchasing 50 million gallons of SAF from biofuel company Gevo, Inc., starting in 2029. Among its near-term commitments, the airline is seeking to decrease life-cycle jet fuel emissions per revenue ton mile by 45% by 2035 and replace 10% of conventional jet fuel with SAF by 2030.

“These targets, particularly those within the next decade, are a rallying cry for our organization to act urgently to address our carbon emissions,” Hawaiian Airlines President and CEO Peter Ingram said in the Corporate Kuleana Report’s welcome note. “We must also continue to partner with fuel producers and the airline industry, as well as states and the federal government to help accelerate SAF production and distribution at commercially viable prices.”

Hawaiian, which is working to phase out single-use plastics from in-flight service by 2029, carried 7% less single-use plastic per transpacific flight last year compared to 2021. It also increased locally produced food and beverage items served on flights departing from Hawaiʻi to 32% of its budget – up from 29% in 2021 and closer to its 2025 40% spending target.

Hawaiian Airlines names Lokesh Amaranayaka as Vice President of Airport Operations

Hawaiian Airlines confirmed the appointment of Lokesh Amaranayaka as vice president of airport operations. 

Amaranayaka will oversee all passenger, ramp and contract service operations at airports across Hawaiian’s global network. He will be responsible for safety, performance and reliability, including on-time arrivals and departures, baggage handling and guest service and satisfaction.

“Lokesh’s people-oriented approach aligns with our company’s values, and his depth of airport knowledge will enable Hawaiian to continue offering the best Hawaiʻi travel experience to our guests worldwide,” said Jon Snook, chief operating officer at Hawaiian Airlines.

Amaranayaka joins Hawaiian after a 24-year career at American Airlines, where he started as a reservations agent and held numerous airport roles before leading the carrier’s expansive operations at Los Angeles International Airport. During his tenure, he also managed front-line operations at American’s Dallas headquarters and major airports, including John F. Kennedy International Airport, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport and Miami International Airport.

Amaranayaka is a McKinsey & Company’s Black Executive Leadership Program graduate and an alumnus of the Management Leadership for Tomorrow Career Advancement Program.

Hawaiian Airlines lists new milestones on the way to Net-Zero carbon emissions

Hawaiian Airlines has this week announced more details of its plan to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050, including commitments to significant progress in the 2030s. The carrier’s decarbonization roadmap relies on several key drivers, including the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), fleet modernization and new aircraft technologies, operational best practices to improve fuel efficiency, and advocacy for air traffic control system improvements.

Hawaiian anticipates that SAF – which is made from sustainable feedstock and can have a life-cycle carbon intensity 50-80% lower than conventional jet fuel – will be the biggest contributor to reduce jet fuel emissions, which constitute the vast majority of its GHG footprint. 

In addition to reaffirming its intention to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, the carrier committed to:

Lowering life-cycle jet fuel emissions intensity per revenue ton mile by 45% (from 2019 levels) by 2035.

Replacing 10% of conventional jet fuel with SAF by 2030.

Improving fuel efficiency per available seat mile by 4% (from 2019) by 2028.

Conserving 3 million gallons of jet fuel through operational initiatives by 2028. 

 

Hawaiian last week announced it would purchase 50 million gallons of SAF from biofuel company Gevo, Inc., with deliveries anticipated to begin in 2029. Hawaiʻi’s hometown airline has also partnered with Par Hawaii, the state’s largest provider of energy products, to study the commercial viability of SAF production in Hawaiʻi.   

The production of SAF is a nascent industry that will have to scale significantly to meet the airline industry’s decarbonization goals. Hawaiian looks forward to continuing to collaborate with fuel producers, as well as states and the federal government, to help accelerate SAF production and availability at commercially viable prices.

“Becoming a net-zero carbon airline is a challenge, but as an airline serving the Pacific we recognize how critical it is that Hawaiian become a more sustainable company for our guests, employees and communities,” said Peter Ingram, president and CEO of Hawaiian Airlines. “We are excited about the progress we are making and these intermediate targets to which we are committing today.”

Hawaiian, whose fleet of Airbus A330 and A321neos is among the most modern in the U.S. airline industry, has agreed to purchase 12 new Boeing 787-9 aircraft that are scheduled to begin arriving later this year. They feature advanced aerodynamics, modern engines and a composite airframe contributing to an approximately 20% fuel-efficiency improvement over prior-generation, similarly sized aircraft.

In addition to modernizing its fleet, Hawaiian is also engaged with airframe and aircraft engine manufacturers to explore new, low-carbon technologies. Hawaiian is an equity investor in REGENT, a company developing a battery-electric powered seaglider that could be suited for the carrier’s network of flights between the Hawaiian Islands.

Hawaiian Airlines Connects, Lifts Hawai‘i’s Economy

                      Hawaiian Airlines stimulated $10.2 billion in economic activity in Hawai‘i – about 11% of the state’s gross domestic product – and was directly or indirectly responsible for 53,500 jobs statewide in 2022* despite enduring challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a new study.

The report, titled “No Kākou a Pau” (interconnectedness) to underscore the ways Hawaiian Airlines is connected to the economy of its home state, was commissioned by Hawaiian and produced by ICF, a global consultant with extensive experience in aviation and other industries.

“Following several years of uncertainty because of the COVID-19 pandemic, this is also a story of resilience. Hawaiian Airlines led through the uncertainty of COVID-19, keeping its people employed, continuing to support local industry and business, providing local jobs and training, and transporting cargo and supplies,” noted the report, which analyzed full-year data from October 2021 through September 2022.*

During this period, Hawai‘i’s hometown airline carried 9.4 million passengers to, from and within the islands (including 1.6 million visitors), supporting nearly one-third of the state’s 128,000 tourism-related jobs and generating more than $600 million in Hawai‘i state tax revenue.

Hawaiian Airlines Streamlines Honolulu Travel Experience with New Security Checkpoint

Thousands of Hawaiian Airlines guests departing from Honolulu each day will now enjoy a more efficient and convenient airport experience thanks to the carrier’s investment in a new multimillion-dollar TSA security checkpoint. The facility, which opens tomorrow in Hawaiian’s lobby 3 at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), adds 1,000 square feet for passenger queuing and 3,000 square feet of screening area.

“This expanded screening capacity will alleviate congestion and make check-in easier for our guests whether they are taking a short trip to another island or boarding a transpacific flight,” Hawaiian Airlines President and CEO Peter Ingram said during a blessing ceremony for the new facility today. “We appreciate the support of our partners including the State of Hawai‘i Department of Transportation and the TSA to help us create a better travel experience for our guests.”

“A big congratulations and mahalo to Hawaiian Airlines on this significant investment into the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport,” said Hawai‘i Department of Transportation Director Ed Sniffen. “Everyone will benefit, from those who fly often for work and medical services, to those who fly casually to relax and reconnect.”

Hawaiian Holdings reports 2022 fourth quarter and full year financial results

 

Hawaiian Holdings, Inc. the parent company of Hawaiian Airlines, Inc. has reported its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year of 2022, showing that it operated at 91% of its 2019 capacity, comprised of 115%, 79%, and 44% capacity on its North America, Neighbour Island, and International routes, respectively

"A heartfelt mahalo to our team as they tirelessly worked through a year in which we had multiple projects in motion that make us a stronger, better airline," said Hawaiian Airlines President and CEO Peter Ingram. "I am incredibly proud of what our team members do to care for our company, our guests and each other. We saw continued strong demand in our domestic markets and recovery in our international markets illustrating that Hawaiʻi is a top destination and we are the carrier of choice.  I am excited to see what we can accomplish in 2023 as we continue to build a solid foundation for our future."

Liquidity and Capital Resources

As of December 31, 2022 the Company had:

• Unrestricted cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments of $1.4 billion
• Outstanding debt and finance lease obligations of $1.7 billion
• Air traffic liability of $590.8 million
• Liquidity of $1.6 billion, including an undrawn revolving credit facility of $235 million

Revenue Environment

The strength of the leisure market was evident as Hawaiian saw robust demand in its U.S. Mainland to Hawaiʻi routes and international routes excluding Japan.  Demand remained strong for premium products and there was positive momentum in sales of its Extra Comfort product and newer preferred seat option.  The Company's overall operating revenue for the fourth quarter 2022 was up 3.2% compared to the fourth quarter 2019 on 6% lower capacity.  The Company's overall operating revenue for 2022 was down 6.7% from 2019 on 9.3% lower capacity as the impacts of Omicron were experienced industry-wide in most of the first quarter.

Other revenue for fourth quarter 2022 was up 35.1% compared to the same period in 2019 and for the full year 2022 up 30.4% compared to 2019 driven by cargo revenue and sales of HawaiianMiles.

2022 Highlights

Routes and scheduled services

• Operated at 91% of its 2019 capacity, comprised of 115%, 79%, and 44% capacity on its North America, Neighbor Island, and International routes, respectively
• Resumed international flights, between Honolulu, Hawaiʻi and Auckland, New Zealand, and Honolulu, Hawaiʻi and Tokyo Haneda Airport
• Signed agreement with Amazon to operate and maintain an initial fleet of 10 Airbus A330-300 freighters to move cargo between airports near Amazon's distribution facilities starting in the fall of 2023
• Announced a new nonstop flight between Honolulu and Rarotonga, Cook Islands, which will launch in May 2023, providing travellers from Hawaiian's 15 U.S. Mainland gateway cities convenient one-stop connection to the Cook Islands

Tom Zheng appointed as Vice President of Technical Operations Business Planning and Services at Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines announced this week the appointment of Tom Zheng as vice president of technical operations business planning and services. In his new role, Zheng will lead a growing portfolio of technical operations initiatives, including expanded aircraft maintenance, dedicated freighter service for Amazon and a new fleet of Boeing 787-9s.

“Tom has offered invaluable leadership to advance significant initiatives within our growing technical operations team,” said Jim Landers, senior vice president for technical operations at Hawaiian Airlines. “His trusted voice and guidance will continue to make us a better, stronger airline as we diversify and grow our business.”

Zheng joined Hawaiian in 2009 as a senior project manager before becoming a director of strategic initiatives. He previously served as managing director of business planning and initiatives in technical operations. Prior to Hawaiian, Zheng was a management consultant for Deloitte and also worked for American Savings Bank and AT&T where he was a distinguished member of the technical staff and principal engineer.

He holds a Master of Business Administration degree with honours from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, a Master of Science degree from the New York University Tandon School of Engineering, and a Bachelor of Science degree from the State University of New York at Stony Brook.

Hawaiian Airlines joins Embry-Riddle’s SkillBridge Program to train, employ transitioning military personnel

 

                    Hawaiian Airlines has confirmed this week that it has become the newest industry partner of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University's Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) SkillBridge program, which has successfully transitioned more than 380 servicemen and women into civilian careers since its inception in 2019.

“Close to 70 transitioning service members around the country who started the program on Jan. 9 will graduate on March 10,” said Angela C. Albritton, director of Military Relations and Strategic Initiatives for Embry-Riddle’s Worldwide Campus. “We’re excited that these program participants will now have the opportunity to learn more about aviation maintenance opportunities at Hawaiian Airlines.”

Each year, approximately 200,000 service members leave the military and re-enter civilian life. Embry-Riddle’s AMT SkillBridge Program is authorized by the Department of Defense and is designed to train and place transitioning service members, honorably discharged veterans and eligible military spouses into Aviation Maintenance-related careers with reputable industry partners, such as AAR, Pratt & Whitney, Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, HAECO Americas and Standard Aero.

“Our industry partners recognize the skills that service members bring from the military, and we are grateful for their ongoing commitment to the program,” said Worldwide Campus Chancellor John R. Watret, Ph.D.

Hawaiian Airlines Creates $100,000 Scholarship Fund for Hawai‘i Residents Attending Arizona State University’s IT Program

Hawaiian Airlines is encouraging Hawai‘i students to pursue careers in information technology with the establishment of a $100,000 scholarship fund in partnership with Arizona State University’s W. P. Carey School of Business. The Hawaiian Airlines New Horizons Scholarship will provide $10,000 awards each year for up to two undergraduate students enrolling in the school’s Information Systems program, starting in the fall 2023 semester.

“Information technology touches every aspect of Hawaiian Airlines. We will continue to grow our technology team with a focus on improving our operations and the guest experience,” said John Jacobi, senior vice president and chief information officer at Hawaiian Airlines. “We are delighted to partner with Arizona State’s exceptional IT program and offer Hawai‘i students a unique opportunity to succeed in this exciting field. Of course, we also hope graduates will consider building a career right here at home with our airline.”

Hawaiian – which has provided nonstop flights between Phoenix and Honolulu for two decades and, in 2020, opened a Technology Center in Tempe – has developed a strong relationship with Arizona State University and area colleges to support the school-to-career pipeline, including via a summer internship program.

Travel between the U.S. Mainland and Rarotonga made easy with a Honolulu connection from Hawaiian Airlines......

Hawaiian Airlines will connect the Hawaiian Islands with the Cook Islands starting in May 2023 with a weekly flight between Honolulu (HNL) and Rarotonga (RAR). The service, which launches May 20, in time for the U.S. summer travel season, will provide travellers from Hawaiian’s 15 U.S. Mainland gateway cities convenient one-stop connections to the Cook Islands.

“We are delighted to grow our South Pacific network by offering our guests access to the Cook Islands, an archipelago that shares Hawai‘i’s Polynesian roots and natural beauty,” said Peter Ingram, Hawaiian Airlines president and CEO. “This service greatly expands travel opportunities between the Cook Islands and the United States, thanks to our well-timed connections and robust network, including service between Hawai‘i and eight California cities.”

               Want to know more about Cook Islands? 

“As a 93-year-old destination airline committed to sustainability, Hawaiian Airlines is a perfect partner for the Cook Islands,” said Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown. “We welcome this timely announcement from Hawaiian Airlines, as we look to rebuild our tourism industry and strengthen access to our northern hemisphere markets. Inbound tourism is a key economic driver for our nation, and to reach our potential we need access from the larger international markets. Hawaiian’s Honolulu-Rarotonga service connects us to Los Angeles, the Pacific Northwest, and many other large U.S. Mainland cities.”

Ticket sales for the Honolulu-Rarotonga service will begin Dec. 7 on HawaiianAirlines.com and other third-party distribution channels. Flight HA495 will depart Honolulu at 4 p.m. on Saturdays and arrive in Rarotonga at 10:25 p.m. the same day. The return flight, HA496, will depart Rarotonga at 11:35 p.m. on Sundays with a 5:50 a.m. Monday arrival in Honolulu.

Guests will enjoy Hawaiian’s award-winning onboard hospitality in the comfort of its Airbus A321neo, the most fuel-efficient and quietest aircraft of its kind. It features 16 luxurious leather recliners in the Premium Cabin, 45 Extra Comfort Premium Economy seats, and 128 Economy seats. Textiles and other materials throughout the cabin pay homage to traditional Hawaiian crafts including bark cloth (kapa) and fishing nets. Other details range from sand-inspired wall panels to Hawaiian language signage and LED mood lighting evoking Hawaii's soothing sunrises and sunsets. Guests will enjoy access to wireless streaming entertainment, USB outlets, and large overhead stowage space.

Services to Cook Islands - International

Direct flights are available from Auckland with Air New Zealand and Jetstar, and from Tahiti with Air Rarotonga.​

Non-stop flights from Honolulu, Hawaii will commence with Hawaiian Airlines from the 20 May 2023, and Non-stop flights from Sydney, Australia will commence with Jetstar Airways from 29 June 2023. ​

Passengers must meet all immigration entry requirements for approved travel. There is no departure tax payable at the airport as this is included in your international tickets.

Air New Zealand

Jetstar Airways - New Zealand

Jetstar Airways - Australia

Hawaiian Airlines

Air Rarotonga

Domestic

Domestic flights to the outer islands are operated by Air Rarotonga.

Air Rarotonga