Top Domestic Airline Revealed by iBestTravel Readers: Exciting Dreamliners & Business Class Launch This Year

Hawaiian Airlines: Favorite Domestic Airline

iBestTravel readers just named Hawaiian Airlines their favorite domestic airline in our World’s Best Awards for the second consecutive year, highlighting its consistent service, welcoming staff, and quality onboard meals. While Hawaiian Airlines is already highly regarded, it is preparing to elevate the travel experience even further.

Increased Flight Schedule

This summer, Hawaiian has expanded its domestic flight schedule, adding extra weekly routes from cities such as Austin, Boston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Pago Pago, American Samoa, in response to growing travel demands. Moreover, in August, the airline will enhance its services to numerous Japanese cities; the route between Honolulu and Osaka will see an increase in daily flights through October. Consequently, Hawaiian Airlines has introduced its first nonstop flight from Honolulu to Rarotonga in the Cook Islands, simplifying access for U.S.-based travelers to this remote Pacific destination.

Introduction of the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner

Later this year, Hawaiian will welcome its new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, with a total order of 12 units set for delivery through 2027. This aircraft, beginning service in early 2024, will be the most fuel-efficient in the Hawaiian fleet. It will introduce a new business-class cabin called Leihōkū, meaning “lei of stars.” This cabin will feature 34 lie-flat seats with doors, supplemented by a simulated sky that showcases stars at night, honoring Polynesian wayfinding traditions. Furthermore, across all cabins, the lighting will vary to reflect colors of sunrise, sunset, and gentle daylight, incorporating nature-inspired elements from Hawaii like native flora and black volcanic sands.

Sustainability Efforts

In its pursuit of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, Hawaiian has committed to purchasing 50 million gallons of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from Gevo, Inc., with initial deliveries anticipated in 2029. Additionally, the airline is collaborating with Conservation International to provide passengers the opportunity to offset their flight’s carbon footprints, as well as partnering with Jason Momoa’s company Mananalu to eliminate 284,000 plastic bottles annually from premium cabin service.

Hawaiian Airlines has a loyal following, but with these enhancements and initiatives, travelers can look forward to an even more rewarding experience in the years ahead.