Hawaiian Airlines History Ends as Alaska Merger Takes Flight

Hawaiian Airlines has officially merged operations with Alaska Airlines, marking the end of its legendary independent identity after 99 years. The milestone follows the Federal Aviation Administration’s approval of a single operating certificate (SOC) for the two carriers, bringing them under one regulatory framework.

The SOC approval unifies both airlines operationally while allowing each brand to continue publicly. It represents the most significant merger in Pacific aviation since Alaska Air Group completed its acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines last year.

FAA Approval Marks New Chapter for Hawaiian Airlines

Ben Minicucci, President and CEO of Alaska Air Group, confirmed the FAA’s decision in an official statement. He called the certification “a year-long, multi-phase effort involving thousands of hours of coordination.” The approval allows both airlines to operate seamlessly under shared safety and maintenance systems while maintaining separate branding.

Under the SOC, pilots and dispatchers across both fleets will use the AS callsign, retiring Hawaiian’s historic “HAWAIIAN” callsign that has been in use since 1926. The final flight to carry the old identifier — Hawaiian Airlines Flight 866 from Pago Pago to Honolulu — marked the end of nearly a century of independent operation.

Passengers will still see Hawaiian’s HA flight numbers on tickets through early 2026, though some numbers have been reassigned to align systems. This integration step simplifies oversight and opens opportunities for efficiency and network growth across both airlines.

Leadership Changes and Regional Growth Plans

To strengthen Hawaii-based operations, Alaska announced several leadership transitions. Diana Birkett Rakow becomes CEO of Hawaiian Airlines, succeeding Joe Sprague. Jim Landers was promoted to Head of Hawaii Operations, while Shelly Parker takes over as Head of Hawaii Guest Operations.

These appointments aim to preserve a strong local identity while supporting Alaska’s broader Pacific expansion. Alaska has already announced 13 new nonstop routes for 2026, including flights from Honolulu to Burbank and new connections linking San Diego, Tulsa, Portland, and Baltimore. The combined network now covers over 140 destinations across North America, Asia, Latin America, and the Pacific, with plans to add Europe next year.

Next Steps in Full Integration

The SOC milestone sets the stage for the next phase — a unified passenger service system (PSS) rollout in April 2026. Once complete, all flights will carry the AS code while maintaining Hawaiian’s signature branding and in-flight experience. The integration will also pave the way for Alaska and Hawaiian’s joint entry into the Oneworld alliance by spring 2026, expanding global connectivity for travelers.

The Hawaiian Airlines name will continue to appear on aircraft and tickets, but its iconic callsign has officially retired — symbolizing the end of an era and the beginning of a new Pacific powerhouse under Alaska Air Group.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What happened to Hawaiian Airlines?

Hawaiian Airlines merged operations with Alaska Airlines after receiving FAA approval for a single operating certificate, ending its independent status after 99 years.

Q2: Is Hawaiian Airlines still flying?

Yes. Hawaiian-branded flights will continue to operate under Alaska’s regulatory system, using the AS callsign for air traffic control while keeping the Hawaiian look and feel for passengers.

Q3: What is the new Hawaiian Airlines callsign?

The historic “HAWAIIAN” callsign has been retired. All flights now use the Alaska Airlines “AS” callsign under the merged operation.

Q4: Will the Hawaiian Airlines brand disappear?

No. The Hawaiian brand will remain visible on aircraft and marketing, even though the backend operations are managed under Alaska Air Group.

Q5: When will full integration be complete?

Full integration, including a shared reservation system and alliance membership, is expected by April 2026.