Alaska Airlines (NYSE: ALK), and Hawaiian Airlines (NASDAQ: HA) are entering into a definitive agreement under which Alaska Airlines will acquire Hawaiian Airlines at an estimated transaction value of 1.9 Billion. Alaska Airlines acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines will create the fifth largest airline in the United States with over 138 direct destinations and 1200 international destinations through the Oneworld Alliance.
Combining Networks
Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines will maintain their two independent and unique brands while operating on a singular operating platform including a singular loyalty program. If approved by regulators, there will be an estimated 54.7 million passengers transported by the combined airline, creating an estimated additional 32,000 jobs. To meet the increased capacity the combined fleet will consist of 365 narrow and wide body aircraft from the combined carriers.
An Alaska Airlines Hub In Honolulu
Honolulu (HNL) will transform into a key Alaska Airlines hub offering new international connectivity for passengers on the west coast. In the near future, west coast passengers can connect to Asia Pacific destinations with one stop service through Honolulu. Frequent fliers will receive elite benefits including Oneworld Alliance airlines including expanded global lounge access. “This combination is an exciting next step in our collective journey to provide a better travel experience for our guests and expand options for West Coast and Hawai‘i travelers,” said Ben Minicucci CEO Alaska Airlines.
A Young Sustainable Fleet
Alaska Airlines has been aquiring new factory fresh 737MAX 8 and 737MAX 9 aircraft from Boeing, while Hawaiian Airlines has aquired fuel efficent Boeing 787 Dreamliners. Both airlines are focusing on alternative fuels such as sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). These efforts will continue throughout the integration including local sorourcing of SAF fuel, aligning with Alaska Airlines Net Zero 2040 objectives.
What This Means For Travelers
Simply put, the Alaska Airlines Hawaiian Airlines acquisition will provide additional benefits for passengers. In theory, a passenger can book an Alaska Airlines ticket and fly on a Hawaiian Airlines aircraft. This in turn will provide additional frequencies from mega hubs like Seattle or San Diego. Those enrolled in either airlines loyalty program will be able to receive elite benefits on either airline. More details will follow over the next couple weeks on this exciting merger. Stay tuned!