Australians heading to the US via Hawaii or the West Coast can expect a smoother ride, thanks to Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines integrating operations at key airports.
The two airlines are co-locating check-ins, gates and lounges at key ports across the US as part of a broader network revamp. For flyers, that means easier terminal navigation, shorter gate hops and a more seamless overall experience, which could be handy when you’re jumping off a long-haul Hawaiian flight from Australia.
“We are committed to enhancing guest convenience to set the stage for future collaborative efforts that will benefit all our guests,” Alaska Airlines Vice President of Operations and Customer Service Celley Buchanan said.
“These moves represent a significant step in that direction.”
In Los Angeles, Hawaiian Airlines has moved into Terminal 6 to sit alongside Alaska.
Over in New York, Hawaiian is now operating from Terminal 8 at John F. Kennedy International Airport, sharing space with Alaska and Oneworld alliance partners including American Airlines and British Airways.
“The new long-term lease at Terminal 8 and our resulting move strengthen our commitment to enhancing the guest experience,” Alaska Airlines Senior Vice President of Fleet, Revenue Products and Real Estate Shane Jones said.
“Terminal 8 is home to American Airlines – our long-standing Oneworld partner – and this move demonstrates our shared commitment to delivering seamless connectivity for our guests.
“After two years of thoughtful evaluation, we’re excited to be closer to American and other global partners to better serve guests.”
San Francisco and Phoenix already have co-located spaces, while full integration at Sacramento, Salt Lake City and Las Vegas airports is expected by the end of the year.
In addition, first-class guests with both carriers can score access to American Airlines’ Admirals Club at JFK, while Hawaiian’s top-tier passengers can also enter the Greenwich Flagship Lounge.
“We are thrilled to welcome our West Coast International Alliance and Oneworld partner, Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines to Terminal 8,” American Airlines Vice President of Corporate Real Estate Amanda Zhang remarked.
“We continue to invest in JFK to enhance the travel experience for our customers and those of our partners like Alaska and Hawaiian, especially as we make progress on the redesign and expansion of the T8 concessions program, bringing new shops and restaurant options for customers to enjoy.”
Alaska Airlines officially acquired Hawaiian Airlines in September 2024, creating a partnership that will look to shake up the US travel industry.
Last year, Hawaiian marked 20 years of nonstop flights between Honolulu and Sydney.
