Hawaiian Airlines to Replace Boeing 717 Fleet with Boeing 737-800s

Hawaiian Airlines has announced plans to replace its retiring Boeing 717 fleet with a new fleet of Boeing 737-800 aircraft for its Neighbor Island service. This transition, expected to begin in 2028, aims to significantly improve the travel experience and reliability for passengers flying between the Hawaiian Islands.

The Boeing 737-800 aircraft will feature an upgraded onboard product, including double the number of first-class seats and additional premium class seating. Passengers will also benefit from fast, free Starlink Wi-Fi, increased cargo space for items like surfboards, and reclining leather seats. Each seat will be equipped with 110V power outlets and USB charging ports.

These new aircraft will be based in Honolulu and operated by Honolulu-based pilots and flight attendants. Hawaiian Airlines CEO Diana Birkett Rakow stated, "This decision reflects our commitment to invest in Hawai'i for the long term, to strengthen Hawaiian Airlines and to honor the local expertise, culture and care that have made Hawaiian the airline of Hawai'i for nearly a century."

To ensure continued service and capacity during the transition period, Alaska Airlines will temporarily supplement Hawaiian Airlines' inter-island flights with 737 capacity. Starting in October, one Alaska-branded 737 aircraft will operate three round trips daily between Honolulu and Kahului. This interim measure will help maintain service frequency and passenger expectations while the fleet modernization takes place.