Big news for frequent flyers: Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines are officially moving forward with their $1.9 billion merger, and if you’ve been racking up miles with either airline, there’s plenty to look forward to. Following approval from the US Justice Department and a recent nod from the Transportation Department, these two major airlines are set to combine their strengths while preserving the perks that loyal travellers love.
So, what does this merger mean for you? Here’s how you can benefit from the changes:
1. Your Miles Are Safe—and Transferable
The biggest sigh of relief for travellers: your miles are protected. Whether you’re flying with Alaska’s Mileage Plan or HawaiianMiles, all accumulated points will be transferred 1-to-1 in the new, unified loyalty system. No expiration, no worrying about losing those hard-earned miles. This is great news for frequent flyers who’ve been collecting miles for that dream vacation—or even just for those essential trips back home.
2. Hawaii’s Rural Communities Get Special Support
Hawaii’s remote areas rely heavily on air travel, and one major concern with the merger was whether rural air services might suffer. Thankfully, Alaska and Hawaiian have committed to maintaining essential air services for these communities, ensuring that travellers—and goods—can still easily get to and from Hawaii’s most remote regions.
3. Intra-Island Routes Stay the Same
One unique aspect of Hawaiian Airlines is its extensive network of intra-island flights. If you’re island-hopping for a vacation or business, you’ll be happy to know that these routes aren’t going anywhere. Passenger and cargo services between Hawaii’s islands will continue as usual, keeping life in the islands connected.
4. Family Seating—Without Extra Fees
Alaska Airlines has long prided itself on family-friendly policies, including guaranteed seating together without any extra charges. As part of the merger, Hawaiian Airlines will be adopting this policy as well. If you’ve ever flown with kids, you know how important it is to sit together as a family without being hit with surprise fees.
5. Compensation for Delays and Cancellations
There’s nothing worse than a flight delay or cancellation throwing your travel plans into chaos. Under the new agreement, Hawaiian Airlines will have to offer compensation if they cause significant flight disruptions, aligning with Alaska’s existing policies. This added layer of protection means travellers can breathe a bit easier, knowing they’ll be taken care of in the event of a delay.
What’s Next?
Starting in December, both airlines plan to merge their operations onto a single platform, creating a network that covers 130 destinations worldwide. That means more options, expanded routes, and greater flexibility when booking your next trip. And with the safety of your miles and rewards intact, now’s the perfect time to start dreaming up where you’ll go next.
With Alaska and Hawaiian joining forces, travellers can look forward to a seamless experience that merges the best of both worlds. Whether you’re an Alaska regular, a Hawaiian loyalist, or just someone who loves to fly, this merger is shaping up to bring the best of both airlines—while keeping the traveller’s needs at the forefront. So, keep an eye out for changes and get excited about where your miles will take you next!
Are you ready to put your miles to good use? Let me know where you’d fly first in this newly expanded network!
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