Hawaiian Airlines Set to Join Oneworld Alliance in 2026

Hawaiian Airlines is set to join the Oneworld alliance in 2026, following its recent acquisition by Alaska Airlines. Hawaiian, previously an independent carrier, will become the third U.S. airline in the Oneworld alliance, joining Alaska Airlines and American Airlines. The news comes after Alaska Airlines completed its USD 1.9 billion purchase of Hawaiian Airlines, solidifying a new chapter for both carriers.

The integration of Hawaiian Airlines into the Oneworld alliance will align with the adoption of a single passenger service system for both airlines. “We expect Hawaiian to officially join Oneworld in 2026 in conjunction with reaching a single passenger service system,” a spokesperson for Alaska Airlines told UpgradedPoints.

Pending approval from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the merger will allow both airlines to operate under a single certificate. However, until the full integration is complete, Hawaiian and Alaska Airlines will continue to operate separately, maintaining their individual websites, reservation systems, and loyalty programs.

Despite no immediate operational changes, the benefits of the acquisition are already being promoted by Alaska Airlines. In a statement released on September 18, the airline highlighted the advantages passengers can expect, including increased connectivity and access to a vast number of destinations. Together, the combined Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines network will offer approximately 1,500 daily flights to 141 destinations, including key international markets in the Americas, Asia, Australia, and the South Pacific. Moreover, passengers will gain access to over 1,200 destinations globally through the Oneworld alliance and its partners.

The acquisition not only boosts Alaska Airlines’ market presence but also strengthens its competitive standing on routes between the U.S. mainland and Hawaii. With Hawaiian Airlines’ expertise in serving the Pacific region, the merger enhances Alaska Airlines’ international reach, particularly in the Asia-Pacific markets.

In the wake of the acquisition, Hawaiian Airlines’ stock was delisted from the NASDAQ and ceased trading as of September 18. The combined entity now operates under the expanded Alaska Air Group, which includes subsidiaries such as Hawaiian Holdings, Inc., Horizon Air, and McGee Airways.

While the integration process is expected to take time, Alaska Airlines is confident the acquisition will deliver long-term benefits for passengers, employees, and shareholders. Both airlines will gradually transition to a unified system, simplifying operations and enhancing customer experience. This includes streamlining flight schedules, loyalty programs, and improving overall service offerings for travelers.

By joining the Oneworld alliance, Hawaiian Airlines will also open up a wide array of global connectivity options for its frequent flyers, allowing them to benefit from Oneworld’s extensive international route network, lounge access, and enhanced loyalty rewards.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, Oneworld