In September 2024, Alaska Airlines finalized its acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines, signifying a notable achievement in the aviation sector. Since that moment, Hawaiian Airlines has become part of the Alaska Air Group, although the integration has unfolded slowly. Today signifies a crucial point in this integration process.
Hawaiian Airlines has now formally become a member of the oneworld alliance, representing an important advancement for the airline. Furthermore, Hawaiian Airlines’ well-known two-letter code “HA” is being retired as of today, April 22, 2026. This adjustment is part of the effort to synchronize flight numbers between the two carriers.
Traditionally, airlines have utilized two-digit designator codes preceding flight numbers. Alaska Airlines employs the “AS” code, whereas Hawaiian Airlines previously used the “HA” code. Yet, starting today, all Hawaiian flight numbers will adopt the “AS” code. For example, a flight connecting Honolulu (HNL) and Maui (OGG) operated by a Hawaiian aircraft will now feature the “AS” code.
This transition was carried out in two stages. On October 26, 2025, Hawaiian flight numbers were updated to fall within the range of 800-1299 while still using the “HA” code. This adjustment aligned with the commencement of the IATA winter season. The renumbering process followed a systematic pattern, such as HA10 changing to HA810, HA451 transitioning to HA851, and so forth. This two-phase method aimed to ease the shift from the “HA” code to the “AS” code, given the technological challenges involved.
The discontinuation of the “HA” code signifies the close of an era, having been utilized since 1929. Despite the alteration in flight numbers, Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines continue to maintain separate brands, ensuring that passengers will still encounter Hawaiian branding on Hawaiian flights.
With today’s developments, the integration between Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines is around three-quarters finished. The airlines have already implemented a unified loyalty program, a single operating certificate, and a consolidated passenger service system. The final step remains to establish new joint collective bargaining agreements, as the workgroups of both airlines are currently under different contracts. This process is anticipated to be completed by 2027.
The integration also encompasses maximizing aircraft allocation to routes for enhanced profitability. For instance, Boeing 787s are being decorated with Alaska livery to reinforce the long-haul hub in Seattle (SEA). Furthermore, Hawaiian’s Airbus A330s are scheduled for interior enhancements starting in 2028 to improve their competitiveness.
In summary, April 22 is a notable date for Hawaiian Airlines as it becomes part of the oneworld alliance and transitions its flight numbers to the “AS” code, signaling the conclusion of the “HA” code period. The merger between Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines is approaching completion, with the main remaining task being the negotiation of new labor agreements.