In September 2024, the acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines by Alaska Airlines was officially completed. Although Hawaiian Airlines has been integrated into the Alaska Air Group since then, the process has been gradual. For instance, in October 2025, the airlines transitioned to a single operating certificate.
Nevertheless, both airlines plan to maintain their individual branding in the long term, with all flights to and from Hawaii featuring Hawaiian branding, while all other flights showcase Alaska branding. It has been anticipated that Hawaiian Airlines would be joining the oneworld alliance, and now that day has finally arrived.
Hawaiian Airlines has officially become a part of the oneworld alliance as of April 22, 2026. This coincides with the date the two airlines will implement a unified passenger service system, marking the elimination of the “HA” code, with all flights adopting an “AS” code. Thus, the timeline aligns well, as it reflects a significant step toward merging the two airlines, despite their distinct outward branding.
The inclusion of Hawaiian in the oneworld alliance is a significant advancement, bringing another member into the alliance fold. Both Fiji Airways and Oman Air have recently joined oneworld, and Starlux Airlines has expressed interest in joining as well, though it is uncertain if it will receive approval considering the veto rights of existing airlines.
It’s refreshing to observe some movement within one of the global alliances, as there has been a lack of significant developments in recent periods.
What are the practical outcomes of this development?
The integration of Alaska and Hawaiian is progressing, with both brands making impressive strides forward. The launch of the Atmos Rewards loyalty program, which merges the loyalty offerings of the two brands, is a notable example.
This means that those who have traditionally flown with Hawaiian are receiving status through Atmos Rewards, and since the program is part of the oneworld alliance, their loyalty to Hawaiian can translate into receiving oneworld Sapphire and oneworld Emerald elite benefits, including access to lounges, based on their Atmos Rewards elite status.
With Hawaiian’s entry into the oneworld alliance, the most significant ramifications are for those loyal to other oneworld frequent flyer programs. They can now earn and redeem points and enjoy elite benefits when traveling on Hawaiian branded flights globally. While some oneworld airlines already had partnerships with Hawaiian, this development certainly streamlines the process.
It may take some time before all oneworld airlines release points earning charts for travel on Hawaiian and list award space on Hawaiian flights, among other updates.
In conclusion,
Alaska Airlines officially acquired Hawaiian Airlines in the fall of 2024. The intention for Hawaiian to eventually join the oneworld alliance has been known, and as of April 22, 2026, this has finally come to fruition.
The primary significance of Hawaiian’s membership in oneworld lies with those loyal to other oneworld programs, as Hawaiian already participates in the Atmos Rewards program (which effectively “belongs” to oneworld).
What are your thoughts on Hawaiian joining oneworld?