Alaska-Hawaiian Merger Unlocks New Elite Benefits and Perks
Status matches, expanded mileage redemption, and elite benefits for frequent flyers are now available across both carriers
Photo: Courtesy of Alaska Airlines
The integration of Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines continues to take shape with new loyalty benefits for frequent flyers of both carriers. Mileage Plan and HawaiianMiles members can now access reciprocal perks, including status matching, expanded mileage redemption options, and select elite benefits when flying on Hawaiian Airlines.
Status Match and Elite Benefits
One of the most significant changes is the introduction of a status match program between Mileage Plan and HawaiianMiles.
HawaiianMiles elites can now link their accounts to Mileage Plan and enjoy matched status, providing them benefits across both airlines. For travelers who earn elite-qualifying miles (EQMs) in both programs during 2024, their combined balance will determine their highest possible elite tier. Even non-elite members may reach elite status by combining EQMs from both programs.
Photo: Courtesy of Alaska Airlines
For HawaiianMiles elites, the integration with Alaska’s Mileage Plan also unlocks oneworld benefits when using their Mileage Plan number with partner airlines. Depending on their matched status, members can access perks such as priority check-in, baggage benefits, and entry to select business and first-class lounges with oneworld carriers, including American Airlines, Japan Airlines, and Qantas.
While Hawaiian plans to formally join oneworld in 2026, oneworld benefits are not yet available when flying Hawaiian Airlines itself.
Mileage Redemption Across Airlines
Alaska’s Mileage Plan members can now redeem miles for flights operated by Hawaiian Airlines in all classes of service, subject to availability.
Likewise, HawaiianMiles members looking to book Alaska Airlines flights can first transfer their miles to Mileage Plan and then redeem them on alaskaair.com.
Additionally, travelers can now earn miles in either program when flying with either airline. Simply adding a Mileage Plan or HawaiianMiles number to a reservation ensures miles accumulate toward elite status and new milestone benefits introduced in 2024.
Enhanced Travel Benefits
Mileage Plan elite members now receive select perks when flying on Hawaiian Airlines-operated flights, including priority check-in, priority boarding, complimentary baggage, and preferred seating. Those with elite status may also access Extra Comfort seating at check-in, subject to availability.
Photo: Courtesy of Alaska Airlines
Beginning later this spring, Alaska Airlines Visa Signature and Alaska Airlines Visa Business cardholders will also receive a free checked bag for themselves and up to six companions when booking a Hawaiian Airlines-operated flight with their card.
Future Integration and Global Expansion
The Alaska-Hawaiian merger, finalized in September 2024 following U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) approval, sets the stage for a fully integrated loyalty program expected to launch in 2026. Until then, both airlines will maintain separate programs with ongoing enhancements.
Alaska has also positioned Seattle-Tacoma (SEA) as its global gateway, with new international routes planned. Hawaiian Airlines widebody aircraft will operate upcoming services from Seattle to Tokyo-Narita (NRT) in May and Seoul-Incheon (ICN) in October.
Photo: Courtesy of Alaska Airlines
By 2030, Alaska aims to serve 12 nonstop international destinations from Seattle.
As the merger progresses, customers can expect additional improvements in elite status recognition, global connectivity, and expanded redemption opportunities across Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and oneworld partners.
