More Breaking News: Alaska Airlines has closed on the purchase of Hawaiian Airlines
Shortly after receiving approval from the Transportation Department, Alaska Airlines has successfully completed its $1.9 billion acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines. Following the acquisition, Alaska Air Group now operates nearly 1,500 daily flights to 141 destinations, with a fleet of 350 Airbus, Boeing, and Embraer aircraft, and employs over 33,000 individuals.
With the acquisition finalized, Hawaiian Airlines stock will be de-listed on Wednesday. The Alaska and Hawaiian brands will continue to operate independently in the long term. Currently, there are minimal changes for passengers of both airlines, as they will remain separate entities with distinct passenger service systems until they secure a single operating certificate from the FAA. Separate websites, reservation systems, and loyalty programs will be maintained throughout the integration process.
Immediate changes will include Alaska lounge members gaining access to Hawaiian Airlines lounges when flying with Hawaiian. In the upcoming weeks, passengers will be able to purchase tickets for either airline through each carrier's website. Loyalty members of the Alaska Mileage Plan and HawaiianMiles programs will be able to transfer miles between programs at no cost for redemption on either airline. Additionally, a new discount travel program named Huaka'I will be introduced for Hawaii residents, offering a 10% quarterly discount on interisland flights and other benefits.
Alaska has stated that future months will see further synergies in the loyalty programs of both airlines. Members will be able to accrue miles on either airline and, starting in early 2025, redeem miles for flights on either carrier individually or in combination with partners. Those with status on Alaska or Hawaiian will be able to link their loyalty accounts to receive equivalent status on the other carrier.
The long-term plan involves phasing out the Mileage Plan and HawaiianMiles programs in favor of a new unified program. Alaska CEO Ben Minicucci has promised details on the new program in mid-2025, emphasizing that it will offer generous rewards unparalleled in the airline industry. Minicucci expressed excitement for the progression of the integration, stating that it will unleash growth and benefits for all stakeholders.
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