US Airline Adds Premium Economy Seating

Hawaiian Airlines has announced a $600 million investment plan spanning five years, which includes the introduction of a premium economy cabin for the first time. The airline, a part of Alaska Airlines, aims to enhance both the passenger experience and airport infrastructure.

Cabin Upgrades

Hawaiian Airlines will retrofit its long-haul, widebody Airbus A330-200 aircraft with a new premium economy cabin starting in 2028. The upgrades will also include new first-class seats, a refreshed main cabin, Bluetooth-enabled seatback entertainment screens, free Starlink wi-fi, and new carpets. Previously, long-haul cabins offered first class, a main cabin, and “extra comfort” seats with additional legroom, but not a dedicated premium economy option.

Route Availability

Passengers can anticipate experiencing the new cabin features on flights from Honolulu to destinations including Tokyo, Osaka, Los Angeles, Auckland, Las Vegas, New York City, Austin, and Orlando. Specific schedules for these routes have not yet been confirmed.

Airport Renovations

The investment plan extends beyond cabin upgrades to include significant renovations at several Hawaiian airports. Lobbies and gates in Honolulu, Līhu‘e, Kahului, Kona, and Hilo will be updated to improve passenger flow and comfort. These improvements will feature bright, open spaces and enhanced amenities such as increased power charging options.

A 10,600-square-foot premium lounge is also planned for the entrance of the Mauka Concourse in Terminal 1 of Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu, the airline’s busiest hub.

Technology Enhancements

This spring, Hawaiian Airlines will launch an updated app and website designed to simplify travel planning and offer improved self-service features. These features will include flight changes and award travel redemption options. The airline is also investing in new technology to support employee operations. Full functionality of these tools and a smoother guest experience are expected upon the integration of Hawaiian Airlines with Alaska Airlines’ passenger service system and the airline’s entry into the Oneworld alliance, both scheduled for late April.

Leadership Statements

Hawaiian Airlines CEO Diana Birkett Rakow stated that the investment plan represents one of the airline’s largest investments in infrastructure, products, and services in Hawai’i, reinforcing its commitment to safe and remarkable service. Hawai’i Governor Josh Green remarked that the investment strengthens the state’s economy and maintains its competitiveness as a global destination.