Hawaiian Airlines Unveils Fleet Changes Ahead of Alaska Merger

Hawaiian Airlines is undergoing significant transformation as it prepares for its integration into Alaska Airlines. As part of the merger, the airline is set to reshape its fleet, which currently consists of 75 passenger and cargo aircraft, with an additional six jets on order. This article explores the current fleet, the onboard experience, and the future of Hawaiian Airlines.

Current Fleet Overview

Hawaiian Airlines operates a diverse fleet with an average aircraft age of 11.5 years. A notable highlight is the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, of which the airline has four in active service, averaging just 1.9 years old. The airline has one additional 787-9 on order, along with five Boeing 787-10 variants. According to data from ch-aviation, these aircraft feature a total of 300 seats divided into two classes. The business class offers 34 flatbed seats arranged in a 1-2-1 layout, providing direct aisle access for every passenger. The economy section accommodates 266 passengers in a standard 3-3-3 layout.

As part of the merger with Alaska Airlines, these Boeing 787s will be transferred to enhance Alaska’s long-haul operations from Seattle. Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci stated, “With these bold moves, we are accelerating our vision to connect our guests to the world. We are seizing this moment to redefine the international experience and level up.”

Airbus A330 and Cargo Operations

In addition to the Dreamliners, Hawaiian Airlines also operates 24 Airbus A330-200 aircraft, which are 12.5 years old on average. At present, 23 of these jets are active, while one is undergoing maintenance at Singapore Changi Airport. The A330-200s are configured with 278 seats, featuring a relatively high-density layout with only 18 business class seats. Although business class passengers enjoy flatbeds, the 2-2-2 configuration means that not all have direct aisle access. Hawaiian Airlines plans to introduce a premium economy section in the future.

The airline also operates ten A330-300P2F cargo jets for Amazon, further diversifying its operational capabilities.

Recently, Hawaiian Airlines has rejuvenated its narrowbody fleet with the addition of 18 next-generation Airbus A321neo aircraft. These planes are approximately seven years old, and currently, one is active while another is stored in Oakland. The A321neos have a seating capacity of 189, comprising 16 domestic first-class recliners and 173 economy seats.

Island Operations with Boeing 717

The airline’s smallest, yet busiest aircraft, are the Boeing 717-200 jets. Hawaiian Airlines has 19 of these rear-engined narrowbody twinjets, which are primarily used for short-haul island-hopping flights. Currently, only one 717 is inactive, undergoing maintenance in Honolulu. Despite their average age of 23.9 years, these aircraft are expected to remain operational for at least the next five years, as confirmed by Alaska Airlines two years ago, thanks to a recent life extension program.

Hawaiian Airlines continues to adapt to the evolving aviation landscape, ensuring that its fleet not only meets the demands of today’s travelers but also aligns with the strategic objectives of its new parent company. As the merger progresses, the airline’s focus on enhancing customer experience and expanding its operational reach is clear.