Hawaiian Airlines has unveiled a sweeping, long-term transformation strategy with the announcement of the Kahuʻewai Hawaiʻi Investment Plan. Revealed on January 5, 2026, the initiative represents a $600 million investment over five years, making it the largest single infrastructure commitment in the airline’s history.
The plan is designed to modernize airport facilities, elevate onboard comfort, enhance digital and loyalty platforms, and reinforce Hawaiian Airlines’ commitment to sustainability and local communities. The announcement follows the airline’s acquisition by Alaska Airlines, marking a new chapter in its operational and customer experience strategy.
Airport Modernization Across Hawaiʻi (2026–2029)
Hawaiian Airlines will renovate lobby and gate areas at five major Hawaiʻi airports to improve passenger flow, comfort, and functionality:
- Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)A new 10,600-square-foot premium lounge will open at the entrance of Terminal 1’s mauka concourse.
- Līhuʻe Airport (LIH)
- Kahului Airport (OGG)
- Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA)
- Hilo International Airport (ITO)
Planned enhancements include brighter and more open layouts, upgraded seating, and a greater number of power and charging stations to support today’s connected travelers.
Aircraft and Cabin Experience Upgrades
Hawaiian Airlines will also invest significantly in its widebody fleet to deliver a more premium onboard experience:
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- Airbus A330 Fleet Retrofit (Beginning 2028)
Honolulu-based A330 aircraft will undergo comprehensive interior renovations.
- Enhanced Cabin DesignNew seating, updated lighting, refreshed carpets, the introduction of dedica
- ted first-class suites, and the addition of a premium economy cabin.
- Advanced In-Flight TechnologyHigh-definition seatback screens with Bluetooth audio support and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi powered by Starlink.
Digital Transformation and Loyalty Integration
Technology and loyalty enhancements are central to the Kahuʻewai Hawaiʻi Investment Plan:
- New Mobile App and Website (Spring 2026)A redesigned digital platform will introduce expanded self-service options for booking, trip management, and customer support.
- Shared Passenger Service SystemFull digital integration is expected by late April 2026, aligning with Hawaiian Airlines’ transition to a shared system with Alaska Airlines and its entry into the oneworld Alliance.
- Loyalty Benefits for Hawaii ResidentsMembers of Huakaʻi by Hawaiian will receive a 50 percent bonus on Atmos Rewards points for Neighbor Island flights beginning later in 2026.
Sustainability and Community Investment
A portion of the $600 million investment is dedicated to workforce development, regenerative tourism initiatives, and environmental sustainability. Notably, Hawaiian Airlines will support the production of locally sourced sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), with operations expected to begin in Hawaiʻi in early 2026. These efforts aim to reduce emissions while strengthening the local economy.
What This Means for Travelers
The Kahuʻewai Hawaiʻi Investment Plan signals a comprehensive reinvention of Hawaiian Airlines, combining enhanced comfort, modern technology, and deeper loyalty integration with a strong commitment to sustainability. For travelers flying to, from, and within Hawaiʻi, these upgrades promise a more seamless, premium, and future-ready travel experience.
