Alaska Airlines Completes Hawaiian Airlines Merger: Implications for Air Travel

Alaska Airlines has officially completed its acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines, marking the first major airline merger since 2016. This deal, which overcame regulatory hurdles from the U.S. Department of Justice and the Department of Transportation, promises more flexibility for travelers but may also lead to higher airfares in the Hawaii region.

The two airlines will maintain their separate brands, with Alaska’s CEO confirming that Hawaiian’s iconic identity and island heritage will remain unchanged. Alaska will also establish a new regional headquarters in Honolulu, which will become its second-largest hub after Seattle.

For frequent flyers, the merger brings good news: travelers can now transfer miles between Alaska’s Mileage Plan and HawaiianMiles programs at a one-to-one ratio, making rewards more flexible. Elite members will also be able to combine miles to earn higher status across both airlines by late 2024.

While more international routes are anticipated, there may be higher airfares to and between Hawaiian islands, as the combined airlines control about 40% of flights to Hawaii. Alaska has assured continued service to rural communities and plans to launch Huaka‘i by Hawaiian, a program offering perks to Hawaiian residents, including discounts on inter-island flights.

For now, the merger signals expanded route options and loyalty benefits for travelers, while maintaining distinct identities for both airlines.

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