The List of 10 Best Airlines to Fly to Hawaii

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A dream vacation to Hawaii shouldn’t break the bank before you even arrive. Finding affordable flights without sacrificing basic comfort is the secret to a stress-free trip. From hidden luggage fees to seat selection costs, flying to the islands on a budget requires knowing which carriers give you the most value for your hard-earned money—so, trying to pick the best airline to fly to Hawaii?

In this guide, we compare ticket prices, free bag policies, and low-cost options from major airlines to find you the cheapest flights. Save your hard-earned money for what truly matters- unforgettable island tours, festive luaus, and delicious local meals.

1. Hawaiian Airlines:

Hawaiian Airlines is widely regarded as one of the best choices for traveling to and around the Hawaiian Islands. Here are multiple key factors that make it an outstanding choice for travelers heading to the tropics:

Real Hawaiian Hospitality:

Hawaiian Airlines brings the spirit of the islands onboard. You will enjoy their hospitality, unique decor, relaxing tunes, and helpful flight attendants who gladly offer expert local recommendations. You may even enjoy the sumptuous meals and complimentary beverages and have a delightful experience. 

Extensive Route Network & Seamless Connections:

No matter where you are starting your trip, Hawaiian Airlines has you covered:

• Long-haul routes: Non-stop flights connect major U.S. and international destinations directly to Hawaii.
• Inter-island routes: High-frequency daily flights mean you can visit multiple islands during your trip with ease.

Modern Fleet & Comfort Options:

Hawaiian Airlines operates a modern fleet featuring tailored cabin classes to fit different travel styles:

• First Class: You can fly in total comfort with seats that fold completely flat, upscale dining, and skipped lines.
• Premium Cabin / Extra Comfort: You will find extra legroom, priority boarding, and dedicated power outlets.
• Main Cabin & Saver Fares: There are comfortable seating options, complimentary in-flight entertainment, and snacks/meals on select routes.

Atmos™ Rewards Program & Credit Card Perks:

If you use Atmos™ Rewards or carry an Alaska Airlines/Hawaiian Airlines credit card, you can unlock handy perks such as:

• Extra miles on everything you buy.
• Free checked luggage for your group.
• Yearly travel discounts to share.

2. All Nippon Airways:

ANA offers one of the best flight experiences to Hawaii. They use custom double-decker planes designed specifically for leisure travel and combine them with first-class Japanese service, making the trip feel like part of the vacation itself. Here is why else you might want to fly with them-

The Iconic Fleet:

All Nippon Airways makes long flights to Hawaii comfortable and smooth with its modern fleet. They use double-decker Airbus and Boeing 787s, which carry more passengers using less fuel. They also offer extra room, family couch seats, and great comfort.

Industry-Leading Economy Comfort:

Most airlines pack economy passengers tightly on leisure routes, but ANA treats its Honolulu economy cabin with high-end specs. It features leg rests that extend from the seat cushion, creating a continuous, flat bed for lying down. It is ideal for couples, families, or parents traveling with small children.

Premium Class Suites & Cabins Options:

If you are booking a domestic flight with ANA on or after May 19, 2026, you will notice a small change: “Premium Class” is now named “First Class (Premium Class).” Your onboard experience won’t change at all. You can still relax with spacious legroom (up to 145 cm), electric reclining seats, personal reading lights, and outlets to charge your laptop and phone.

Services by the Class:

• First Class Seats: You can fly in ultimate luxury with the private, square shell seats. Specially designed for First Class, they combine high-end comfort with smart functionality.
• Business Class Seats: You can enjoy fully lie-flat seats set in a staggered layout, giving every passenger direct aisle access. You can move around easily without disturbing others.
• Premium Economy Seats: You can take your relaxation to the next level with wider seats and extra legroom. It is great for long flights. They feature USB and wall outlets so you can easily charge your devices.
• Economy Class Seats: ANA brings comfort and happiness to every passenger with slim-line seats that offer generous legroom. You can sit back, stretch out, and stay entertained throughout your trip with a personal seatback screen packed with movies, music, and games.

3. Qantas:

Qantas is the next best airline to fly to Hawaii. It offers smooth connections, reliable service, and a great travel experience. Here are some more reasons to book a Qantas flight:

Aircraft Comfort & Modern Fleet:

Qantas operates modern long-haul aircraft on its transpacific routes to Honolulu, including the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Airbus A330.

Premium Cabins & Upgrades:

If you are flying premium or upgrading your seat, you will get free seat choice, extra-attentive service, great food, and access to the airport lounge.

• Premium Economy: A private cabin with personal crew, spacious recliner seats, modern dining, and excellent wine.

• Business Class: Depending on your flight, you will get lie-flat seats or extra-spacious recliners. You also get access to award-winning Business lounges, delicious meals, and wines picked by a sommelier.

• First Class: Offers private suites, Neil Perry-designed dining menus, LaGaia spa treatments, and access to exclusive First lounges before departure.

Economy Cabin Options:

• Standard Seat Selection: You can select your seat at the time of booking or at any time before departure. You may pay a fee as per the seat type chosen.

• Qantas Economy Plus: Offers extra legroom, priority boarding, and priority access to overhead lockers.

Eligibility: Complimentary for Platinum One and Platinum members. If you are a Gold member, you can use this for free up to a day before your flight, as long as space permits.

Fleet Availability: Available on Boeing 737, Airbus A220, Airbus A330, and Airbus A231XLR aircraft.

Onboard Services:

Qantas offers top-quality service across four seating classes: First, Business, Premium Economy, and Economy. Here is what you get on board:

• Inflight Dining: You can enjoy seasonal meals made with local ingredients, plus free snacks, wine, and drinks. On select international flights, you can also grab treats anytime from a self-serve snack bar.

• Inflight Entertainment: Watch whatever you want- movies, TV shows, stand-up comedy, music, and documentaries- all on your own screen.

• Inflight Wi-Fi: Free fast Wi-Fi on selected domestic and international flights, so you can browse, text, or work while you fly.

• Comfortable Seating: They offer lie-flat suites in First and Business class, plus extra-legroom seating in Premium Economy, all designed to give you a relaxing flight.

4. Japan Airlines:

Another of the best airline to fly to Hawaii is Japan Airlines. They have been flying there since 1954, so they really know the route. With great service, comfortable seats, and easy flights between Tokyo and Honolulu, JAL is a top choice. You can also check Japan Airlines’ official website for the latest flight schedules, cabin services, and travel information.

Inflight Services as per Cabin Class

• First Class: A quiet personal space crafted for JAL’s most special hospitality. Services Include:

Comfortable seating with maximum privacy.

Top-tier dining and great drinks made just for First Class.

In-flight Wi-Fi and premium entertainment choices.

High-end amenity kits and personal comfort items.

Dedicated airport and lounge services before boarding.

• Business Class: Focuses on freedom, comfort, and customized quality service, such as-

Extra-comfortable seating for a rest-filled flight.

Custom food and drink menus.

In-flight Wi-Fi and entertainment options.

Exclusive amenity kits with travel essentials.

Airport lounge access and priority check-in/boarding.

• Premium Economy Class: Offers a relaxing, JAL-style flight experience with enhanced comfort. Services Include:

Seats with extra legroom and personal space.

Upgraded meal and beverage options.

Wi-Fi capabilities and entertainment options.

Specialized amenities for comfort during long journeys.

Airport lounge access benefits depending on eligibility.

• Economy Class: Focuses on providing quality and excellence in each detail. Services Include:

Ergonomically designed seating options.

Complimentary meal and beverage service.

Access to personal entertainment screens and Wi-Fi services.

Essential travel amenities.

5. Air Canada:

Thinking about flying to Hawaii? Another great option is Air Canada. Here are the reasons why you should pick this airline for your Hawaii vacation-

Stay Connected:

• Fast, Free Wi-Fi for Sun Destinations: Aeroplan Members, United MileagePlus® members, and Business Class passengers enjoy free, streaming-quality internet on routes to Sun destinations (including Hawaii/North America) from gate to gate. Check Air Canada Wi-Fi and connectivity options.

• Free In-Flight Texting: Aeroplan Members can send and receive texts for free during flights using messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Apple iMessage, Meta Messenger, Google Messages, WeChat, LINE, Telegram, and Viber (sponsored by Bell).

Award-Winning In-Flight Entertainment:

• North America’s Best: Voted the Best In-Flight Entertainment in North America at the 2024 APEX Best in Entertainment Awards.

• Broad Content Library: Features newly released movies, classic films, current TV shows, music, and radio channels to keep you entertained throughout your trip.

Exclusive Media & Wellness Perks:

• Apple Fitness+: Free 2-month trial to take a mid-flight meditation break or stay active after landing.

• Audible Content: Access to Audible podcasts and audiobooks, plus a free 2-month Audible trial membership offer.

Premium Cabin & Seats:

• Versatile Cabin Options: Choose from luxury Air Canada Signature Class, North America & Caribbean Business Class, Premium Economy, or Economy Class to match your budget.

• Lie-Flat Comfort: Wide-body aircraft feature lie-flat seats in Signature Class, making sure you arrive in Hawaii fully rested.

• On-Demand Entertainment: Enjoy up to 600 hours of movies, TV shows, and music via personal seatback screens.

• In-Flight Power: Charge laptops or tablets using convenient 110V electrical outlets available at your seat.

• Enhanced Comfort Amenities: Premium cabins offer dedicated space, extra legroom, larger recline, and upgraded meal services for an elevated travel experience.

Onboard Comfort & Device Charging:

Seat-level power outlets are available in Business Class, Air Canada Signature Class, and select Economy Class seats, and USB charging ports are at every seat, so your personal devices stay charged during long flights.

6. American Airlines:

American Airlines is recognized as one of the premier choices for flying to Hawaii, mainly because of its extensive route network, wide-body aircraft, and flexible loyalty program perks. You can check current flight options, onboard services, and travel information on American Airlines’.

Fleet Variety & Modern Aircraft

American Airlines operates a modern fleet of aircraft, including the fuel-efficient Airbus A321neo, Boeing 737 MAX 8, and Boeing 787 Dreamliner. This means you get a smoother, quieter flight, especially when flying over the ocean.

Main Cabin Extra & Onboard Amenities:

• Complimentary Seat Selection: You can choose your seat for free when booking, or upgrade to Preferred / Main Cabin Extra seats in more favorable locations.

• Free Inflight Entertainment: Access free movies and TV shows directly on-screen or stream them to your own personal device during the long flight over the Pacific.

• Complimentary Snacks & Drinks: Soft drinks and snacks are always free on board. Additional meals or beverages may be complimentary or available for purchase depending on the route.

• Free Carry-On Allowance: Main Cabin tickets come with a free carry-on and a free personal item.

• Onboard Wi-Fi: You can buy Wi-Fi on select flights to stay connected while you fly.

• Flexible Rebooking & Seat Refunds: If you upgrade your seat, rebook, or if operational changes/delays prevent you from getting a comparable seat, refund policies are in place to cover paid seat charges.

Complete Vacation Packages (American Airlines Vacations)

• Money Savings: Booking flights and hotels together as a package is usually cheaper than booking them separately.

• Earn Extra Miles: Booking an AA Vacations package allows you to earn bonus AAdvantage® miles on both the flight and hotel/rental portions of the trip.

• Redeem Miles for Award Travel: You can use AAdvantage® miles directly on aa.com to cover your flights to major Hawaiian destinations.

7. Delta Airlines:

Delta Air Lines is the best airline to fly to Hawaii. They offer great route connections, reliable flight schedules, and a comfortable onboard experience that makes the long trip over the Pacific feel easy, enjoyable, and hassle-free from takeoff to landing.

Modern Wide-Body Fleet on Long-Haul Routes:

Delta flies advanced wide-body planes, including the Airbus A330-900neo, Airbus A350-900, and Boeing 767, on long Pacific routes from Atlanta, Minneapolis, and Salt Lake City to Honolulu or Maui.

• Smoother, Quieter Rides: State-of-the-art aircraft feature quieter engines, better cabin pressurization, and humidity control to reduce jet lag and exhaustion during 5- to 10-hour flights.

Premium Cabin Experiences (Delta One® & Delta Premium Select):

Delta’s long flights to Hawaii offer great premium upgrades to make the trip more comfortable.

• Delta One®: You can fly comfortably with lay-flat seating, easy aisle access, soft bedding, and tasty chef-crafted food. Unwind and catch up on sleep long before you reach your tropical destination.

• Delta Premium Select: Available on select wide-body aircraft, featuring a wider seat, deeper recline, an adjustable footrest/legrest, and upgraded service.

• Delta Comfort+® & Main Cabin: You will find extra legroom, dedicated overhead bin space, and ergonomically designed seating across the entire fleet.

Industry-Leading Onboard Entertainment:

Hawaii routes can involve extended time in the air, making inflight options vital:

• Delta Studio®: Every passenger receives a seatback screen with access to hundreds of free movies, TV shows, live satellite channels, and music playlists.

• Fast, Streaming-Capable Wi-Fi: Delta’s rollout of fast, free Wi-Fi for SkyMiles members across its domestic and transpacific-capable fleet helps travelers stay connected throughout the journey.

• In-Seat Power: Power outlets (AC USB ports) are available across most seat configurations to keep devices charged.

Comprehensive Route Network & Hub Connections:

Delta makes flying to Hawaii easy from almost anywhere in North America. You can get to the islands (Honolulu, Maui, Kona, or Kauai) with direct flights or just a single quick stop through major hubs like Los Angeles, Seattle, Salt Lake City, Atlanta, or Minneapolis.

8. United Airlines:

United Airlines is recognized as one of the top choices for travel to Hawaii, thanks to its long history of serving the islands, an extensive route network from key U.S. hubs, and tailored in-flight services.

Upgraded Cabin Comfort:

According to United’s New Fleet Experience update, the airline is introducing 500 new Airbus and Boeing aircraft and retrofitting existing planes with standardized signature interiors. These fleet-wide upgrades significantly improve long-haul comfort to Hawaii:

• Seatback Entertainment for All: Every seat features personal seatback monitors, guaranteeing passengers have access to hundreds of movies, live TV, and audio options throughout the multi-hour ocean crossing.

• Bluetooth Connectivity & In-Seat Power: You can easily connect your wireless headphones to the seatback screen using Bluetooth. Plus, handy power outlets ensure all your personal devices stay fully charged throughout the entire flight.

• Fast Starlink Wi-Fi: United is rolling out free high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi for MileagePlus® members across select aircraft, facilitating seamless messaging and streaming mid-flight.

• Expanded Storage Space: With bigger overhead bins, every passenger has space for their carry-on bag, taking the stress out of boarding.

• Accessibility Enhancements: Detailed inclusions, such as tactile Braille labels for rows, seats, and lavatories, improve overall cabin accessibility.

Extensive Route Network and Gateway Hubs:

United Airlines ranks quite high in the list of best airlines to Hawaii. They offer direct flights to Honolulu, Maui, Kona, and Kauai from major U.S. cities. Plus, with easy connecting flights and cozy United Club lounges in airports like Denver, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, your trip to the islands proceeds smoothly from start to finish.

9. Southwest Airlines:

According to the official Southwest Airlines website, Southwest has become one of the most popular and traveler-friendly airlines for flying to and around Hawaii. You can use the Southwest Low Fare Calendar to book an affordable flight.

Here is why Southwest Airlines is recognized as one of the best options for Hawaiian travel:

Comfortable Cabin Configurations & Seat Options:

Southwest Airlines operates a modern fleet of Boeing 737s (737-700, 737-800, and 737-MAX 8) designed with passenger comfort in mind:

• Assigned Seating Choices: Southwest Airlines offers clear seat selection tiers to suit different needs, including Standard, Preferred, and Extra Legroom.

• Generous Legroom: On Boeing 737-700 aircraft, Extra Legroom seats feature a generous 35-36 inches of pitch (with standard seats offering 31- 33 inches). On the 737-800 and 737-MAX 8 models, extra-legroom seats provide 34 inches of pitch.

• Spacious Seat Width: Widest seat dimensions reach up to 17.8 inches on the 737-800 and 737-MAX 8, and up to 17.0 inches on the 737-700.

• Accessibility: All rows feature movable aisle armrests (except bulkhead seats on select models), making boarding and sitting comfortable for all passengers.

Inflight Connectivity & Entertainment:

Southwest Airlines keeps passengers connected and amused throughout their trip:

• Free High-Speed Wireless Internet: All credit goes to T-Mobile as Rapid Rewards® members enjoy free Wi-Fi on designated aircraft. Southwest is also rolling out ultra-fast Starlink Wi-Fi on select planes.

• In-flight Entertainment: Passengers can stream free movies, TV shows, and live TV directly to their phones, tablets, or laptops.

Complimentary Snacks & Beverages:

• Free Refreshments: Most flights feature complimentary snacks and drinks for all passengers.

• Premium Upgrades: A variety of premium alcoholic beverages are also available for onboard purchase.

Convenient Mobile Tools & Luggage Tracking:

• Digital Bag Tracking: Passengers can track checked luggage directly through the mobile experience to know their bags are with them at every step.

• Mobile App Integration: The Southwest app delivers real-time push notifications for check-in alerts and flight updates, and provides easy access to boarding passes.

Flexible Loyalty Rewards & Priority Upgrades:

• Rapid Rewards® Program: Points never expire, there are no blackout dates, and member points can be redeemed across unlimited reward seats.

• Priority Boarding Options: You can buy Priority Boarding up to 24 hours before your flight to get early access to overhead bins and better seats.

• Expansive Destination Network: You can take a Southwest flight to over 100 destinations across North America, Central America, Hawaii, and the Caribbean.

10. Alaska Airlines:

Alaska Airlines sets itself apart with reliable flights, great customer service, and one of the best rewards programs in the business. Why else should you choose this airline? Here are a few reasons:

• Industry-Leading Operational & Customer Focus:

At Alaska Airlines, everything centers around five simple ideas: keeping safety first, doing what’s right, being kind, getting results, and making a great impression. Living these principles allows the airline to offer truly caring, authentic service alongside exceptionally high operating standards for all of its travelers.

• 20-Minute Baggage Service Guarantee:

Alaska Airlines distinguishes itself by its explicit baggage commitment. If a passenger’s checked luggage is not at the baggage carousel within 20 minutes of the flight’s arrival at the gate, the customer is eligible for a $25 discount code towards a future flight or 2,500 bonus loyalty points.

• Generous Loyalty Program:

The airline’s loyalty program (Atmos Rewards) gives members flexible redemption options with no blackout dates on Alaska or Hawaiian Airlines flights, status earning on award travel, and access to over 1,000 global destinations via the oneworld® alliance and global airline partners.

• Elevated In-Flight Amenities & Comfort:

Check out the amenities available for a comfortable flying experience 

Seating Options: Offers generous legroom options across First Class and Premium Class (which features up to 5 inches of extra legroom, early boarding, and complimentary drinks).

Connectivity: Offers ultra-fast Starlink Wi-Fi on select aircraft (free for Atmos Rewards members via T-Mobile), alongside free messaging options.

Main Cabin Flexibility: Flexible booking policies, including no change fees on standard Main Cabin fares.

Important Points to Consider Before Booking A Flight to Hawaii 

Here are some points you must consider before choosing the best airlines to fly to Hawaii-

1. Direct routes vs. Layovers:

West Coast flights take around 5 to 6 hours, while East Coast and Midwest routes last 8 to 11 hours. If departing from the East Coast, see if direct flights from JFK or ATL work, or rest up with a West Coast layover.

2. Extra Baggage fees:

When you plan a Hawaii vacation, you may need to pack extra gear like surfboards, snorkel sets, or heavy luggage. Standard airlines charge standard checked-bag fees for these items. You can only skip these extra costs if you hold elite status, use their credit card, or fly first class.

3. Aircraft type & seating comfort

Flights to Hawaii are long, and aircraft options fall into two main types:

• Large planes (Widebody): Two aisles, smoother flight, individual screens, and lie-flat beds in first class.

• Small planes (Narrowbody): One aisle, mostly used for West Coast routes. Modern, but they feel tight for a 6-hour ocean flight.

4. Destination Island:

Honolulu is Hawaii’s main hub for big international flights. But if you want to visit Maui, Kauai, or the Big Island, look for direct routes from your city. Catching a nonstop flight saves you from booking an extra inter-island plane, letting you start your vacation much faster.

5. Seasonality & fare classes

Flight tickets cost more during summer and winter breaks. So, if you want to save money, you can travel in fall or late spring instead. Just watch out for Basic Economy deals; they are cheap, but seat selection, flight changes, and early boarding will cost extra.

Conclusion:

Now you know what to look for when choosing the best airline to fly to Hawaii. Important details like direct flights, baggage fees, seat comfort, and rewards points all shape your travel experience. First, look for airlines that fly straight from your local airport to your target Hawaiian island. Next, compare the total price, including extra fees and perks, rather than just the base fare. Spending a little extra time planning helps you find an affordable flight so you can begin your paradise getaway completely stress-free.

Frequently Asked Questions