Hawaiian Airlines expands west coast service

Hawaiian Airlines, Hawaiʻi's hometown airline, is preparing for strong holiday travel demand between Hawaiʻi and the West Coast by increasing flights between Honolulu (HNL) and Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO) and Seattle (SEA).

"We’re already seeing compelling demand for end-of-year travel and our extra flights will make it even more convenient for our guests to experience our Hawaiian hospitality during the holiday season," said Brent Overbeek, executive vice president and chief revenue officer at Hawaiian Airlines. "Additionally, we decided to once again offer a fourth Honolulu-Los Angeles, peak-day flight that was popular with our guests during our summer seasonal service.”

Hawaiian will operate the routes with a mix of Starlink-equipped Airbus A330 and Airbus A321neo aircraft. Guests will experience Hawaiian’s award-winning service including culinary delights through the airline’s Featured Chef Series, signature beverages by Kō Hana Rum and Maui Brewing Co., and island treats from the Pau Hana snack cart. Complimentary in-flight entertainment is offered on all transpacific flights and includes the airline’s specially curated video collection, Hana Hou! TV.

Hawaiian Airlines announces early exchange results of its private exchange offer for its outstanding 5.750% senior secured notes due 2026 and consent solicitation

Hawaiian Airlines, this week announced that Hawaiian Brand Intellectual Property, Ltd., an exempted company incorporated with limited liability under the laws of the Cayman Islands and an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, and HawaiianMiles Loyalty, Ltd, an exempted company incorporated with limited liability under the laws of the Cayman Islands and an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, have released the early exchange results for their previously announced offer to exchange any and all of their outstanding 5.750% Senior Secured Notes due 2026 held by Eligible Holders, as defined below, for the Issuers’ 11.000% Senior Secured Notes due 2029 and cash.

In connection with the Exchange Offer, the Issuers are soliciting consents to the adoption of certain amendments (the “Proposed Amendments”) to the indenture governing the Existing Notes. Eligible Holders who tender their Existing Notes pursuant to the Exchange Offer must also deliver Consents to the Proposed Amendments. Eligible Holders may not deliver Consents to the Proposed Amendments without also validly tendering their Existing Notes. 

As of the previously announced Early Exchange Time of 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on July 9, 2024, according to information provided by Global Bondholder Services Corporation, the Information and Exchange Agent for the Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation, $1,110,278,214 aggregate principal amount (or approximately 92.5% of the outstanding principal amount) of the Existing Notes had been validly tendered and not validly withdrawn in the Exchange Offer. Consummation of the Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation is conditioned upon the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions set forth in the Exchange Offer Materials (as defined below), including Eligible Holders validly tendering and not validly withdrawing at least $1,140,000,000 aggregate principal amount of Existing Notes (the “Minimum Participation Condition”), provided however, that (i) if Eligible Holders shall have validly tendered and not validly withdrawn at least $800,000,000, but less than $1,140,000,000, aggregate principal amount of Existing Notes, the Issuers may accept for exchange such Existing Notes in their sole and absolute discretion and shall have the right to waive the Minimum Participation Condition without extending the Withdrawal Deadline or Expiration Time and (ii) if Eligible Holders shall have validly tendered and not validly withdrawn less than $800,000,000 aggregate principal amount of Existing Notes, the Issuers shall not accept for payment such Existing Notes and the Issuers shall not have the right to waive the Minimum Participation Condition. In addition, the Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation may be terminated or withdrawn at any time, in the Issuers’ sole and absolute discretion, subject to compliance with applicable law.

Giving aircraft life vests a second chance in the Surf.... Hawaiian style

Oʻahu surfers Cathy Chin and Marlene Renee Smith yearned for a way to bring their favorite snacks out to their local break. For them, keeping food on hand meant avoiding a long paddle back to shore and having more time to ride waves, writes Marissa Villegas, External Communications, Hawaiian Airlines. 

“I had been trying to bring out protein cookies by attaching them to the back of my surfboard in a Ziplock baggie, but that did not work. All we wanted was to surf for longer, but we kept getting hungry and would have to paddle back in,” explained Chin. So, in January 2023, the two entrepreneurs began devising water-tight designs.

Smith created over 10 versions of a surf bag at home with her sewing machine and iron, ranging from Tyvek to sailcloth to polyester. Prototypes had to meet several criteria: be small enough to fit in board shorts and not create water drag, functional and waterproof with a good zipper, and durable to withstand wear and tear from the elements. She shared various options with other surfers and friends, including former professional surfer Keone Downing, who pushed Smith to consider repurposed material.

“Downing said something like, ‘You know, if you are surfers, then you care about the ocean and what you're taking out into it. Maybe you should look for some kind of recycled material.’ That triggered us to look at materials like old boat sails and busted party tents, but we struggled with those materials having too much sun exposure, too much degradation, too many holes in it, you name it.”

“My husband works in aircraft maintenance, and we had a facility in the Netherlands doing maintenance work for private jets. I'd seen them take the expired life vests out of them and toss them in the trash,” she explained.

Aviation life vests are made with durable nylon and coated with polyurethane to make it waterproof. While the material can withstand the test of time in its packaging, the vest accessories can degrade or weaken, and manufacturers require airlines to replace them every 10 years. 

While enjoying another good surf day on Oʻahu’s South Shore, Chin and Smith paddled to their friend Brad Otani, an aircraft mechanic for Hawaiian Airlines, and inquired about the carrier's expired life vests. Between sets, they discussed their idea with Otani, who later put out feelers with colleagues. Then, in July 2023, Chin and Smith received a donation of 300 life vests from Hawaiian's Brand and Technical Operations teams.

“I thought it was great what they were doing and was happy to support,” Otani said. “I was one of the surfers who tested the prototype made from our aircraft vests and I still use mine today.”

That first donation allowed Chin and Smith to scale production and launch the Think Blue Surf Bag, a 100% waterproof pouch for surfers and outdoor enthusiasts. The Surf Bag can fit items like an electronic car key, a small protein bar or snack, surf wax, a small tin of sunscreen or lip balm, or a credit card and ID. It is available for purchase at www.DaretoThinkBlue.com and in select Oʻahu surf shops. 

Hawaiian Airlines Recognized for Exceptional Support of Guard and Reserve Employees

As National Military Appreciation Month comes to a close, Hawaiian Airlines was recently recognized for its exceptional support of its employees who also serve in the National Guard and Reserves.

Greg Scott, Hawaiian's manager of information technology who is a cyberspace operations officer in the Hawaiʻi Air National Guard, last week accepted The Hawaiʻi State Committee of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR)'s Pro Patria Award on behalf of the airline.

“As a member of the Hawaiʻi National Guard who is occasionally called up on orders to support the state or nation – inherently time away from my Hawaiian Airlines team and work – I’ve seen first-hand how Hawaiian Airlines is supportive of its military members and the additional time and weight it brings,” said Scott.

The honour recognizes civilian employers who successfully empower guardsmen, guardswomen and reservists in their ranks to fulfill missions. Over the last year, that has included deployments to support relief efforts including disaster response following the Maui wildfires, military partnerships with Pacific Rim nations and national capitol security. The Pro Patria is the highest honor bestowed by an ESGR State Committee.

At Hawaiian, more than 530 self-identified veterans work across its operations, from flying aircraft to managing cyber security, and since January 2023, the carrier has been a partner of Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University's Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) SkillBridge program, which provides servicemen and women opportunities to bridge the transition into the civilian aviation and aerospace sector.

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Hawaiian Airlines starts new Salt Lake City-Honolulu service

Hawaiʻi’s hometown airline has started a new daily nonstop route between Salt Lake City (SLC) and Honolulu (HNL) ahead of the carrier's proposed takeover by Alaska Airlines.

Hawaiian Airlines flight HA84 departs HNL at 6:50 p.m. and arrives at SLC at 5:15 a.m. the following day. The return flight, HA83, departs SLC at 7 a.m. with a 9:55 a.m. arrival at HNL. 

“We know the Hawaiian Islands have a special place in the heart of Utahns and for some, a Hawaiʻi vacation also means reuniting with friends and family,” said Brent Overbeek, executive vice president and chief revenue officer at Hawaiian Airlines. “Our new Salt Lake City service comes at the perfect time for travelers planning their summer vacations and we look forward to welcoming them with our award-winning Hawaiian hospitality.”

“We extend a warm welcome to Hawaiian Airlines as they join the SLC International Airport family,” said Bill Wyatt, executive director, Salt Lake City International Airport. “Hawaiian Airlines has a reputation for excellence in hospitality and we look forward to many years of prosperity.”

Hawaiian Airlines Corporate Kuleana Report: Growing Sustainably

Hawaiian Airlines today published its annual Corporate Kuleana (Responsibility) Report highlighting Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) initiatives to fly and grow more sustainably.

Hawaiian continues to work toward its goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 through investments in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and fleet modernization. Last month, the carrier inaugurated service with its first fuel-efficient Boeing 787-9 aircraft and received the second of its 12 787-9s on order.

In preparation for a new growth phase, Hawaiian in 2023 welcomed nearly 1,000 employees – for a year-end workforce of 7,362 people – while expanding career pipeline initiatives with schools and universities.

"I am immensely proud of our achievements in the past year, and the dedication of our employees to make us a better airline," Hawaiian Airlines President and CEO Peter Ingram said in the Kuleana Report's welcome message. "Their aloha for one another, our guests, and the communities we serve, inspires me each day, and it is what will build our continued success in the years ahead."

Protecting our Environment

Hawaiian, which has committed to replace 10% of petroleum-based jet fuel with SAF by 2030, last year announced it would source 50 million gallons of SAF from biofuel company Gevo, Inc., over 5 years starting in 2029. In parallel, Hawaiian is actively collaborating with Par Hawaii, the largest refinery in the state, to explore local SAF production.

Hawaiian joined the United Airlines Ventures' Sustainable Flight Fund to support startups focused on accelerating research, technology and production to help scale SAF, and recently became a member of the SAF Coalition, a nonpartisan nonprofit group advocating for SAF incentives and policies.

Hawaiian is on track to conserve three million gallons of jet fuel through operational initiatives through 2028, having saved approximately 800,000 gallons in 2023. Also last year, Hawaiian conducted an in-depth screening of its Scope 3 emissions to inform efforts to decarbonize its supply chain.

As part of its work to reduce waste and eliminate single-use plastics from in-flight service by 2029, Hawaiian's transpacific flights carried approximately 24% less single-use plastics per flights as of Dec. 2023 , compared to a 2021 baseline, as it diverted 355,000 plastic water bottles and introduced more sustainable catering products and onboard amenities.

Caring for our People and Communities

Hawaiian recruited 953 teammates across the company last year, with a focus on hiring pilots and mechanics to support new business ventures such as its cargo operations for Amazon and a new fleet of 787-9s.

More than 80% of Hawaiian's employees identify as racially or ethnically diverse, and Hawaiian believes its dedication to diversity, inclusion, and belonging continues to be an important driver of its recruiting and retention strategy and success. In 2023, Hawaiian again lead major U.S. airlines in having the highest percentage of women pilots at more than 9.7%, well above the 4.9% 2022 U.S. average.

To inspire the next generation of aviation professionals, Hawaiian continues to increase educational partnerships and workforce development programs while supporting its employees' continuing education. Hawaiʻi nonprofit ClimbHI recognized Hawaiian as its 2023 Outstanding Business award winner for its community outreach at college and high school campuses in Hawai'i and the Continental U.S.

As Hawaii's hometown carrier, each year Hawaiian supports island communities and cities across its network through its Team Kokua (Help) giving program and the volunteerism of employees. In 2023 Hawaiian's philanthropic activities included 187.2 million HawaiianMiles donated to 246 organizations, of which 35 million miles benefited its longtime partner, the Polynesia Voyaging Society, to support its " Moananuiakea: A Voyage for the Earth."

In all, more than 1,500 employees volunteered 8,548 hours, while Hawaiian contributed $1.8 million in cash and in-kind donations in the areas of culture, education, environment, and health and human services.

Hawaiian Airlines Launches Month-Long Lei Day Celebration Featuring Global Sweepstakes and Interactive Pop-Up Events

At the start of May, Hawaiian Airlines surprised guests at Honolulu and Kona airports with 1,500 fresh flower lei – giving them a taste of the carrier’s monthlong Lei Day celebration.

Hawaiʻi's hometown airline is extending its traditional May Day festivities to all 31 days of the month to honour the legacies of May Day as celebrated in Hawaii and Hawaiian Airlines – both of which date back 95 years to 1929.

Throughout the month, Hawaiian will share the act of giving lei at pop-up lei stands in Los Angeles, Salt Lake City and Tokyo, via a global sweepstakes awarding four million HawaiianMiles, and in a video series featuring Hawaiian Airlines employees, among other special surprises.

Hawaiian Holdings Reports 2024 First Quarter Financial Results

Hawaiian Airlines, has reported its financial results for the first quarter of 2024, this week which shows the firm has generated federal and state net operating losses (NOLs) of approximately $451 million and $969 million. 

It was a period during which the company's stockholders had voted in favour of a merger with / take-over by  Alaska Air Group.  The Company and Alaska entered into a timing agreement with the Department of Justice ("DOJ") in which they agreed not to consummate the merger before 90 days following the date on which both parties have certified substantial compliance with the DOJ's second request for additional information

"Mahalo to our team for remaining focused on delivering strong operational performance and unparalleled guest experience," said Hawaiian Airlines President and CEO Peter Ingram . "2024 is off to a positive start as we work to start realizing the return on significant investments we've made in our business, including rolling out high-speed Starlink WIFI and taking delivery of our first Boeing 787."

Key events during the period include:

Began Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner revenue service on April 15, 2024

Announced new flying from Salt Lake City (SLC) to Honolulu (HNL) and Sacramento (SMF) to Lihu`e (LIH) and Kona (KOA)

Announced increased summer flights between HNL and Austin (AUS), Boston (BOS), Las Vegas (LAS) and Pago Pago (PPG)

Hawaiian will also add a fourth daily flight between HNL and Los Angeles (LAX) from May 24 through September 2

Hawaiian received its second A330-300 freighter from Amazon which will operate between New York's JFK and San Bernardino (SBD)

Starlink inflight connectivity is now available free of charge on board all 18 A321neo aircraft

Expanded Premium Airport Service product in its Honolulu hub, offering seamless curb-to-aircraft experience with access to new airport private suite, Apt. 1929

Signed a multi-year distribution agreement with Sabre that will provide Sabre-connected agencies with long-term access to the carrier's HA Connect™ NDC and traditional EDIFACT content through the Sabre travel marketplace.

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Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance have established component support agreement with Hawaiian Airlines

Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance, world-leading multi-product MRO services provider, is pleased to announce a landmark partnership with Hawaiian Airlines, further solidifying its position as a premier provider of tailored solutions in the aviation industry. This collaboration marks the commencement of a ten-year term contract, with a provision for a two-year extension, encompassing comprehensive component support for Hawaiian Airlines’ newly acquired Boeing 787-9 fleet.

The agreement between AFI KLM E&M and Hawaiian Airlines underscores the dedication to providing outstanding service and support. In this strategic partnership, AFI KLM E7M will offer repair and pooling support for Hawaiian Airlines’ twelve 787-9 aircraft, utilizing its extensive global network. In addition, Hawaiian Airlines will benefit from AFI KLM E&M’ state- of-the-art solution PROGNOS®, Predictive Maintenance for Aircraft, for enhanced operational efficiency and aircraft reliability.

‘We are thrilled to partner with AFI KLM E&M as our strategic 787 component support provider and join their large network of 787 customers’, expressed Jim Landers, Senior Vice President of Technical Operations at Hawaiian Airlines. ‘As a 787 operator themselves, they understand our goal to deliver safe and reliable aircraft to Hawaiian's network for on-time departures. We look forward to them exceeding our expectations.’

Paul-Antoine Vivet, Vice President Sales Americas at Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance, displayed his enthusiasm regarding the partnership, stating; ‘We are honored to have been entrusted by Hawaiian Airlines as their preferred MRO partner for their 787-9 fleet. This collaboration underlined our relentless dedication to delivering innovative solutions and unparalleled service excellence, further cementing our strong foothold withing the global aviation landscape.’

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Hawaiian Holdings Stockholders approve of takeover by Alaska Air Group

Hawaiian Holdings, the parent of Hawaiian Airlines has confirmed this week that its stockholders have voted to agree to the takeover by the Alaska Air Group.  To save face, the management is calling it a merger and advised that the substantial majority of the holders of Hawaiian’s stock voted in favour of the merger, according to preliminary results from the special meeting held on Friday. Hawaiian will file the final voting results, as tabulated by an independent inspector of elections, on a Form 8-K with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

“Stockholder approval of our transaction with Alaska is an important milestone toward combining our airlines,” said Hawaiian Airlines President and CEO Peter Ingram. “Together, we will bring stronger competition to the U.S. airline industry, deliver more value to our guests and the communities that we serve, and provide greater job opportunities for our employees.”

The transaction remains subject to receipt of required regulatory approvals, along with other customary closing conditions. Hawaiian and Alaska continue to expect to complete the transaction within 12 to 18 months of the announcement of the transaction, which occurred on 3rd December 2023.

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Hawaiian reports 2023 fourth quarter and full year financial results showing losses of more than $100 million.

Hawaiian Holdings, the parent company of Hawaiian Airlines, has this week reported its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year 2023.

"I am grateful to our team who accomplished an extraordinary amount, including realizing foundational investments during a challenging year," said Hawaiian Airlines President and CEO Peter Ingram .  "Demand is solid across our networks, our brand remains strong in Japan as the market recovers, and we have seen steady improvement in travel to Maui.  We expect the combination with Alaska will create an even more competitive combined airline, positioning the Hawaiian Airlines brand to flourish in the years ahead."

As of December 31, 2023, the Company had:

Unrestricted cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments of $908.5 million

Outstanding debt and finance lease obligations of $1.7 billion

Liquidity of $1.1 billion , including an undrawn revolving credit facility of $235 million

Revenue Environment

Following the Maui wildfires, Hawaiian saw a steady recovery of travel from North America to Maui.  Non-Maui routes and international markets ex- Japan continued to perform and demand remained solid.  In international markets, strong U.S. and other point-of sale demand, coupled with an increase in Japan -originating traffic, contributed to a 20.7% point increase in International passenger load factor year-over-year.  Premium products continued to demonstrate strong performance for the fourth quarter and full year 2023.

The Company's overall operating revenue for the fourth quarter 2023 was down 8.5% compared to the fourth quarter of 2022 on 3.3% higher capacity.  In addition to the impact from the Maui wildfires, pandemic-related spoilage and revenue from pent-up travel demand in 2022 drove the year-over-year decline.  The Company's overall operating revenue for 2023 was up 2.8% from 2022 on 8.1% higher capacity.

Other Revenue for fourth quarter 2023 was down 15.9% compared to the same period in 2022, primarily driven by a decrease in cargo revenue.  Cargo activity in 2022 was higher than normal due to lingering pandemic-related effects.  Full year 2023 Other Revenue was down 16.2% compared to 2022, driven by decreases in cargo revenue and contract services.

Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2023 Highlights

Routes and scheduled services

Operated 108% of its 2022 capacity: 96%, 112%, and 172% capacity on its North America , Neighbor Island, and International routes, respectively

Launched ticket sales for new daily nonstop service between Salt Lake City and Honolulu , which will commence on May 15, 2024

Announced expansion of service in Sacramento with four weekly flights to Līhuʻe, Kauaʻi starting May 24, 2024 and three weekly flights to Kona on the Island of Hawaiʻi starting May 25, 2024

 

Awards and Recognition

Ranked highest for economy travel customer satisfaction in Consumer Reports ' 2023 Airline Travel Buying Guide

Named the best domestic airline in Travel + Leisure's 2023 "World's Best Awards" annual reader survey

Rated as one of the top airlines in the U.S. by Condé Nast Traveler readers for the 2023 Readers' Choice Awards

Awarded best new business class in 2023 by TheDesignAir for its new business class product, the Leihōkū Suites

 

Guest experience

Received FAA approval of the Starlink system on the Airbus A321neo, which is currently being installed on that fleet. Hawaiian will be the first major airline to put this technology on-board, and it is expected to be the fastest, most capable inflight connectivity available worldwide, offered free to every guest

Collaborated with Hawaiʻi lifestyle brand Noho Home to design Hawaiian's new in-flight amenity kits and soft goods with a focus on sustainability and rooted in aloha. Amenities are made with responsibly sourced materials and offered to Business Class guests on long-haul flights a la carte to minimize waste

 

Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance

In May 2023 , the Company published its 2023 Corporate Kuleana (Responsibility) Report, providing progress on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) priorities, which included a decarbonization roadmap with interim targets to lower greenhouse gas emissions focused on replacing petroleum jet fuel with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF); plans to decrease life-cycle jet fuel emissions per revenue ton mile by 45% by 2035; and efforts to replace 10% of conventional jet fuel with SAF by 2030.  The report also highlights Hawaiian's employee diversity, including the highest percentage of women pilots of any major U.S. airline.

Other activities in 2023 include the following:

Engaged over 1,500 volunteers who donated over 8,500 hours of community service work for more than 200 organizations throughout Hawaiʻi and other markets we serve

Donated $109,500 through the Hawaiian Airlines Foundation as a grant to Kāko'o 'Ōiwi, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the cultural, spiritual and traditional practices of the Native Hawaiian community. The grant funded the construction of a produce washing and packing facility to serve small, family farms in the area

Brought the Holoholo Challenge virtual race series to Kauaʻi which raised almost $25,000 in proceeds benefiting the National Tropical Botanical Garden's McBryde Garden , a 259-acre conservation and research area that is home to the world's largest collection of native Hawaiian flora

Provided wide-ranging support for the Maui Community , including direct gifts of $50,000 each to the Hawaiʻi Foodbank, Maui Food Bank, and Hawaiʻi Community Foundation's Maui Strong Fund, and a donor-matching HawaiianMiles campaign for the American Red Cross Hawaiʻi totaling approximately 140 million HawaiianMiles. Additionally, Hawaiian assisted with the evacuation of displaced residents and visitors and the transportation of first responders to Maui , and also supported relief efforts by carrying over 193,000 lbs. of essential cargo

The Company continues to focus on creating long-term value and positively impacting the people, environment and communities it serves. The Company will publish its fifth annual Corporate Kuleana Report in the spring of 2024.

Merger Agreement

On December 3, 2023 , Alaska Air Group, Inc. and the Company announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Alaska Airlines will acquire Hawaiian for $18.00 per share in cash, for a transaction value of approximately $1.9 billion , inclusive of $0.9 billion of Hawaiian's net debt.  The combined company will unlock more destinations for consumers and expand choice of critical air service options and access throughout the Pacific region, Continental United States and globally.  The acquisition is conditioned on required regulatory approvals, approval by the Company's shareholders, and other customary closing conditions.  It is expected to close in 12-18 months from the announcement date.

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.

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.