Alaska Air Group has revealed a substantial investment strategy to improve Hawaiian Airlines’ infrastructure and customer experience, committing $600 million over the next five years. A vital aspect of this plan is the thorough cabin refurbishment of Hawaiian Airlines’ Airbus A330 fleet. These 24 planes, with an average age of 13 years, will receive a complete interior renovation beginning in 2028.
The enhancements will consist of replacing the existing 2-2-2 fully flat business class seats with new business class suites, the introduction of a premium economy cabin, and the installation of cutting-edge technology such as high-definition seat-back monitors and Bluetooth audio. The economy class will also feature new seating, carpets, and lighting.
While these improvements are highly anticipated, the timeline indicates at least a two-year wait before the first aircraft is upgraded. Specific details, including seat layouts and types, have yet to be revealed. The A330s will maintain their Hawaiian branding from Honolulu, while the Boeing 787s will sport Alaska branding from Seattle.
This investment signifies a strategic initiative by Alaska Air Group following its acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines, intended to enhance competitiveness in both domestic and international arenas. The long-term strategy may leverage Hawaii’s geographic benefit to broaden the South Pacific network, potentially routing travelers through Honolulu.
In summary, these enhancements are a welcomed advancement, promising enhanced passenger experiences and positioning Hawaiian Airlines more advantageously in the aviation industry.