Hawaiian Airlines Overhauls Fleet in 2025 Amid Alaska Merger

Hawaiian Airlines is undergoing significant changes in 2025 as it integrates into the broader operations of Alaska Airlines following their merger. The airline currently operates a fleet of 75 passenger and cargo aircraft, with an additional six jets on order, according to data from ch-aviation. This transformation represents a pivotal moment for Hawaiian Airlines, prompting a closer look at its evolving fleet composition and future plans.

Current Fleet Overview

Hawaiian Airlines’ fleet has an average age of 11.5 years. Among its assets, the fleet includes a small sub-fleet of four Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, which are relatively new, averaging just 1.9 years old. The airline has another 787-9 on order, along with five 787-10s. Each Dreamliner accommodates a total of 300 seats divided into two classes. The premium experience is highlighted by 34 business class flatbeds arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, allowing direct aisle access for all passengers. Behind the business section, 266 economy seats are configured in a standard 3-3-3 layout.

As part of the merger strategy, these Dreamliners are set to transition to Alaska Airlines, facilitating the establishment of a long-haul hub in Seattle. Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci stated, “With these bold moves, we are accelerating our vision to connect our guests to the world.”

Widebody and Narrowbody Aircraft

In addition to the Dreamliners, Hawaiian Airlines operates a fleet of 24 Airbus A330-200 aircraft, which average 12.5 years in age. Currently, 23 of these jets are active, with one undergoing maintenance at Singapore Changi Airport. The A330-200s are configured to carry 278 passengers, with 18 business class seats and 260 in economy. Plans are underway to introduce a premium economy section on these aircraft.

The airline also operates 10 A330-300P2F cargo jets that service Amazon, highlighting its role in the cargo sector. On the narrowbody front, Hawaiian Airlines has added 18 Airbus A321neo twinjets to its fleet, with an average age of seven years. However, only one is currently active, while another is stored at Oakland International Airport. The A321neo aircraft are configured for 189 passengers, with 16 first class recliners and 173 economy seats, and the airline plans over 1,000 A321neo flights in January.

The smallest aircraft in Hawaiian Airlines’ fleet is the Boeing 717-200, with 19 units primarily used for inter-island travel. These jets are crucial for connecting multiple Hawaiian islands with short flights throughout the day. Currently, just one 717 is inactive for maintenance in Honolulu. These planes have an average age of 23.9 years but have been recently upgraded through a life extension program, ensuring their operational viability for at least the next five years, according to Alaska Airlines.

The ongoing integration of Hawaiian Airlines into Alaska Airlines marks a transformative period for both carriers. With a diverse fleet and strategic plans for future growth, Hawaiian Airlines is well-positioned to enhance its service offerings and expand its reach in the competitive airline industry.