Alaska airlines to replace hawaiian’s boeing 717s with 737s – a bold shift in island skies
Anchorage – Alaska Airlines is poised to dramatically reshape air travel within Hawaii, replacing the aging fleet of Boeing 717s operated by Hawaiian Airlines with a squadron of Boeing 737-800s. The move, slated to begin in 2028, represents a significant investment and a tangible signal of Alaska’s dominance following its 2024 acquisition.
A refreshing approach to inter-island routes
The transformation won’t just involve a simple repaint; Alaska is committed to a comprehensive overhaul, including a distinctive Hawaiian livery for each aircraft. This isn’t merely cosmetic; it’s a deliberate strategy to solidify the brand across the archipelago. Initial deliveries, slated for Honolulu by October 2026, will focus on short-haul routes between Honolulu and Maui – a carefully calibrated test of the new system.
While Hawaiian has relied on the 717 for decades, ferrying up to 160 passengers daily across the five major islands – Honolulu, Maui, Lihue, Kona, and Hilo – the average age of these aircraft sits around 25 years. Alaska’s 737-800s offer substantially increased passenger capacity, with the potential to accommodate nearly 161 travelers, and a notable boost in premium seating – up to 36 premium seats and 16 first-class seats, compared to the 98 economy seats offered by the 717s.
Beyond the numbers: a strategic play
The decision, according to CEO Diana Birkett Rakao, reflects a long-term commitment to Hawai'i. “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 Hawaii for nearly a century,” she stated. Beyond the immediate fleet upgrade, Alaska is also deploying its 787-9 Dreamliners, previously destined for Europe and Asia, to bolster service to the islands – a clear demonstration of strategic resource allocation. Furthermore, Hawaiian’s A330s are slated for a modernization program, promising enhanced Business-class cabins and a new premium economy experience.
Moreover, the new 737s will be equipped with Starlink Wi-Fi, a feature designed to cater to the increasingly connected traveler. And crucially, they’ll boast increased cargo space, specifically designed to accommodate the demands of the island’s thriving surf industry.
Alaska’s investment extends far beyond a simple fleet swap. The company currently holds an order for 105 Boeing 737 MAX 10s, projecting a 33% increase in its overall fleet size by 2035. This isn’t simply about replacing older aircraft; it’s about establishing a robust and adaptable network, capable of meeting the growing demands of both residents and visitors to the Hawaiian Islands. The move is a testament to Alaska's ambition and a clear signal of its intention to solidify its position as the undisputed leader in Hawaiian air travel.