It still surprises me that so many people are reading HHHI, and I occasionally get contacted by readers and leadership at companies to clarify (and sometimes correct) information.
I love this for two reasons: one, it shows people are actually reading and paying attention; and two, I’ve always wanted this newsletter to be a conversation, not a monologue, and the Hui a community.
This week, I was glad to speak with Daniel Chun, Alaska/Hawaiian’s MD for Hawai‘i Public Affairs & Sales, about our recent piece on the Hawaiian–Alaska merger. He wanted to add some color to recent changes:
- While 787s shifted to Seattle (enabling one-stop Europe-Hawai‘i routes), all A330s remain Hawai‘i-based, with Pualani on the tail, the HA brand onboard, and major interior upgrades coming.
- The combined network opens up 100+ new North America destinations for travelers from Hawai‘i.
- Despite some non-union reductions, 600+ new frontline roles in Hawai‘i are being added; pilots, flight attendants, airport agents, and maintenance techs.
- New regional leadership team includes a CEO and many from Hawaiian Airlines, reinforcing commitment to a strong Hawai‘i HQ.
- An upgraded website and mobile app are launching this spring to enhance the HA guest experience.
- Alaska/Hawaiian is deeply invested in Hawai‘i and has, in fact, created an advisory board to help ensure this.
I appreciated the conversation and his candor. Their current intentions seem genuine, yet with any merger, the real test will come through actions over time. We’re hopeful, but also keeping a close eye.
