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Hawaiian Airlines Teases New Premium Lounge in Honolulu

A new premium lounge is set to open in 2027, and a second Premier Club is now operational in Maui

by George Gomez

January 10, 2025

Photo: Courtesy of Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines has set its sights on redefining the airport experience for its travelers, revealing two major developments to enhance passenger comfort and convenience.

With a significant investment in a future premium lounge at its Honolulu hub and the opening of a second Premier Club in Maui, the airline continues its push to offer top-tier service both on the ground and in the air as it celebrates 95 years of continuous service.

A Premium Lounge in Honolulu

In a highly anticipated move, Hawaiian revealed its ambitious plan to open an all-new premium lounge at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) by the end of 2027.

The new facility will be located at the entrance of the Mauka Concourse in Terminal 1 and promises to be a transformative space for travelers.

“This is our largest lounge investment to date, and it reflects our unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction,” said Todd Traynor-Corey, vice president of guest products and experience at Alaska Airlines, which recently merged with Hawaiian Airlines. “We are reimagining the travel experience with spaces that showcase the unique culture of Hawai’i.”

The lounge will be five times larger than the existing facility in Honolulu and feature design elements inspired by Hawaii’s natural beauty.

Photo: Courtesy of Hawaiian Airlines

Expect sculptural accents, vibrant colors, and reflective light beams to create a calming, modern oasis for travelers. As the project progresses, Hawaiian Airlines has promised to release more details, including guest access and final design concepts.

Alisa Onishi, director of brand and culture at Hawaiian, emphasized the importance of infusing local culture into the experience. “Our new Honolulu lounge will be a celebration of our guests’ voyage, thoughtfully crafted to honor the beauty and warmth of our island home. This space reinforces our commitment to providing an unrivaled travel experience that reflects the purpose and values of our hometown airline.”

The lounge development at Honolulu is part of a broader effort to upgrade the airline’s airport services. In recent months, Hawaiian Airlines has focused on improving its lounges across the islands, ensuring that passengers enjoy a seamless and elevated experience from check-in to boarding.

A New Premier Club in Maui

Meanwhile, Hawaiian also opened a second Premier Club lounge at Maui’s Kahului Airport (OGG) in December, offering travelers a new space to relax before their flights.

The lounge, spanning 1,175 square feet, provides seating for 36 guests and offers an array of amenities, including ample charging stations, complimentary Wi-Fi, and locally sourced snacks and beverages from Hawaiian Chip Co. and Lion Coffee.

Photo: Second Premier Club at Maui’s Kahului Airport. Courtesy of Hawaiian Airlines

Designed to reflect Maui’s striking landscapes, the small lounge draws inspiration from the island’s vibrant purple sunsets, lush forests, and volcanic terrain.

It is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and caters to Premier Club, Pualani Gold, Platinum members, and First Class guests.

“We recognized the need for additional space for our guests traveling out of OGG and began the nine-month process to open a second Premier Club lounge,” said Johanna Franco, travel experience manager at Hawaiian Airlines. “We’re excited to continue to provide our guests with an elevated travel experience, whether at our airports at the start of their journey or once they are comfortably onboard our aircraft.”

Photo: Second Premier Club at Maui’s Kahului Airport. Courtesy of Hawaiian Airlines

This new facility in Maui marks Hawaiian’s sixth Premier Club in the state, spotlighting the carrier’s focus on improving its lounge offerings throughout Hawaii.

Guests flying through Honolulu can also access Hawaiian’s Plumeria Lounge, complementing the soon-to-be-built premium lounge in Terminal 1.

A Strategic Step Forward

Hawaiian Airlines’ dual focus on expanding its lounge network and enhancing guest services is part of the airline’s strategy to remain competitive in an increasingly demanding market.

Photo: Courtesy of Hawaiian Airlines

With the future premium lounge in Honolulu poised to set a new standard for luxury and comfort and the new Premier Club in Maui already serving travelers, Hawaiian is doubling down on its promise to deliver an unmatched travel experience.

For frequent flyers and newcomers alike, these latest developments promise an enhanced travel experience that blends comfort, culture, and convenience.